The Day the Music Died

  "To those peoples in the huts and villages across the globe struggling to break the bonds of mass misery, we pledge our best efforts to help them help themselves, for whatever period is required—not because the Communists may be doing it, not because we seek their votes, but because it is right. If a free society cannot help the many who are poor, it cannot save the few who are rich." 

From The Inaugural Address of John Kennedy, President of the United States, delivered Washington, DC on January 20, 1961.

I was sitting in Mr. Mcelheny's fourth grade class at William Davis Elementary School in Southampton, PA on November 22, 1963. We were about to conclude the school day, and embark on a week off for Thanksgiving. My walk home - six blocks - often seemed miles. Principal Deitz began afternoon announcements in a somber, almost hushed tone.

"President Kennedy has been shot and killed today."