Today American President, John F. Kennedy, would have celebrated his 61st birthday. Kennedy was famously assassinated in Dallas, Texas, on November 22nd 1963, just one hour after his flight had touched down.
In the summer of 1963, JFK visited Ireland, a momentous occasion for many. The June trip, dubbed ‘the homecoming’, was famous for many reasons. We dedicate this ‘Throwback Thursday’ piece to JFK and that very special trip.
In a personal handwritten letter, Jackie Kennedy wrote to De Valera in January of 1964, to express her gratitude to the Irish welcome John had received on his Presidential visit just a few short months before his death.
An excerpt from the letter reads: “I am only grateful for one thing in these sad days – that he did have the chance to return to Ireland as President of the United States last summer. That trip meant more to him than any other in his life.”
Kennedy addressing the crowd at Dáil Éireann.
JFK with Sean Lemass walking in Arbour Hill.
Familiar faces such as, Sharon Corr, Ryan Tubridy, Robert Sheehan and Roddy Doyle, recall JFK’s empowering and emotional famous words he gave during that momentous occasion.
“George Bernard Shaw, speaking as an Irishman, summed up an approach to life: ”Other peoples,” he said, “see things and say: `Why?’ … But I dream things that never were – and I say: `Why not?””
Happy Birthday Mr President!
