Kennedy was a symbol for young Americans

On Nov. 22, 1963, ironically, I was teaching American history at St. Mark’s School in Chicago, and it was playing out before us. The other male teacher (at the time, nuns taught most classes) came into my class and told me Kennedy had been shot. I led us in a prayer, and shortly after that we received news of his death. I remember driving home and seeing people crying.

Its also memorable, because it was the night of my stag party as I was married eight days later. It definitely put a damper on the party. In those days, stag parties weren’t the elaborate, destination, several-day parties many are today. We had a simple party with cards and a few beers in the basement of my folks’ house. The weekend became more bizarre with the shooting of Oswald on live TV.

Although I am politically independent, I would have voted for Kennedy but couldn’t because of my age. He was a symbol for young people, much like Obama was in his first presidential run. To see Kennedy, so young and apparently vigorous, struck down so suddenly was unreal. It’s especially sad because I think he was just hitting his stride politically, and personally he and Jackie seemed to be in a good place as well.

I also feel his death holds a special meaning for Irish Catholics like me. He was the first Catholic to be president, and his Irish wit and charm made it easy to like him and relate to him.

I have read many of the Kennedy books and especially enjoyed the insights Jackie shared when her tapes were released by the family a few years ago.

Tom Mannard

Prospect Heights