Abraham Bolden, Former Secret Service Agent, Receives 2024 Award for Courage
Former U.S. Secret Service Agent Abraham Bolden has been recognized with the 'Profile in Courage' Award for 2024 by the Citizens Against Political Assassinations (CAPA). The announcement was made during their annual virtual conference. This prestigious award celebrates individuals who demonstrate unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth in difficult circumstances. Glenda Devaney, the chairperson of CAPA, acknowledged Bolden's efforts in advocating for transparency regarding the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.
Bolden, now 89 years old, holds a remarkable place in American history as the first African American agent to serve in the White House Detail of the Secret Service, a position he was appointed to in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy himself. His tenure was marked by both privilege and peril, especially following the tragic assassination of Kennedy on November 22, 1963. In the aftermath, Bolden stepped forth to testify before the Warren Commission, the body charged with investigating the circumstances around the President’s assassination. However, his willingness to share what he knew was met with hostility; he was taken from Washington, D.C., under dubious charges and returned to Chicago, where he was falsely accused of soliciting a bribe.
This move was widely speculated to be part of a larger effort to suppress the truth regarding the assassination. Ultimately, Bolden was sentenced to six years in prison but was released after serving three. His conviction, deemed unjust, remained a stain on his record for decades until President Joseph R. Biden issued a full pardon in 2022, acknowledging the miscarriage of justice that had occurred.
Bolden authored an autobiography titled 'The Echo from Dealey Plaza', published in 2008, where he shared his experiences and reflections about his life and the events surrounding Kennedy's assassination. His stories provide a unique perspective on race, power, and the obligations of those in positions of trust.
During the award ceremony, Bolden expressed his heartfelt appreciation to CAPA for the honor, recognizing those involved in the mission to seek the truth. He was also grateful to President Biden, whose intervention helped to restore his name. In his speech, Bolden conveyed a somber but determined message, praying for justice for the Kennedy family and all Americans affected by the events of that fateful day.
Continuing his appeal for transparency, Bolden urged President-elect Trump to fulfill his promise to release the remaining files pertaining to the investigation of JFK's assassination. 'Carry on my brothers and sisters... The truth cannot die!' he stated, emphasizing the importance of relentless pursuit of the truth by future generations and researchers.
Bolden's recognition serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of courage in standing against injustice and the need to confront historical narratives with honesty and integrity. His life story continues to inspire many, highlighting the complexities of history, race, and the critical role of individuals in shaping the future. As he continues to speak out for justice, Abraham Bolden remains a vital figure in America's ongoing dialogue about truth and consequences in political history.
Bolden, now 89 years old, holds a remarkable place in American history as the first African American agent to serve in the White House Detail of the Secret Service, a position he was appointed to in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy himself. His tenure was marked by both privilege and peril, especially following the tragic assassination of Kennedy on November 22, 1963. In the aftermath, Bolden stepped forth to testify before the Warren Commission, the body charged with investigating the circumstances around the President’s assassination. However, his willingness to share what he knew was met with hostility; he was taken from Washington, D.C., under dubious charges and returned to Chicago, where he was falsely accused of soliciting a bribe.
This move was widely speculated to be part of a larger effort to suppress the truth regarding the assassination. Ultimately, Bolden was sentenced to six years in prison but was released after serving three. His conviction, deemed unjust, remained a stain on his record for decades until President Joseph R. Biden issued a full pardon in 2022, acknowledging the miscarriage of justice that had occurred.
Bolden authored an autobiography titled 'The Echo from Dealey Plaza', published in 2008, where he shared his experiences and reflections about his life and the events surrounding Kennedy's assassination. His stories provide a unique perspective on race, power, and the obligations of those in positions of trust.
During the award ceremony, Bolden expressed his heartfelt appreciation to CAPA for the honor, recognizing those involved in the mission to seek the truth. He was also grateful to President Biden, whose intervention helped to restore his name. In his speech, Bolden conveyed a somber but determined message, praying for justice for the Kennedy family and all Americans affected by the events of that fateful day.
Continuing his appeal for transparency, Bolden urged President-elect Trump to fulfill his promise to release the remaining files pertaining to the investigation of JFK's assassination. 'Carry on my brothers and sisters... The truth cannot die!' he stated, emphasizing the importance of relentless pursuit of the truth by future generations and researchers.
Bolden's recognition serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of courage in standing against injustice and the need to confront historical narratives with honesty and integrity. His life story continues to inspire many, highlighting the complexities of history, race, and the critical role of individuals in shaping the future. As he continues to speak out for justice, Abraham Bolden remains a vital figure in America's ongoing dialogue about truth and consequences in political history.
Topics People & Culture）
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