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MacDill remembers JFK

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Jenay Randolph
  • 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Team MacDill hosted "JFK in Tampa: The 50th Anniversary" commemorative ceremony Nov. 18, 2013, in honor of John F. Kennedy's last visit to MacDill Air Force Base, Fla. before his assassination in Dallas, Texas in 1963.

During the ceremony, MacDill and the City of Tampa unveiled a plaque to commemorate his visit and remarks were given by Col. Scott DeThomas, 6th Air Mobility Wing commander, Bob Buckhorn, mayor of Tampa, Fla., and guest speaker, Tony Zappone, journalist.

"The significance of the visit was actually tied to the history of flight," stated DeThomas. "He brought together the concept of aviation and politics."

Fifty years ago, President Kennedy was here to speak on political issues of the time and to commemorate the world's first commercial flight, the Benoist XIV flying boat, which took place in 1914. During his visit at MacDill, he toured the headquarters and war room of the U.S. Strike Command, building 373, which is still standing, and had lunch at the Officers' Club with 75 officers /civilians.

After his tour, he spent time in Tampa delivering speeches to the public before returning to MacDill. Prior to departure, he left a group of Airmen with these words: "I am indebted to you all. On behalf of the people, I express thanks to you."

On Friday, Nov. 22, 1963, just four days later, the life of a president, war hero and whom some would call a "friend" came to an end.

"Tragic that it was his last visit, but we are very happy to be able to celebrate," said DeThomas.