LBJ’s Takes Charge Onboard
In the wake of JFK’s tragic assassination, there was no time to spare, and Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson swiftly assumed the presidency. While accompanying President Kennedy’s fateful trip to Dallas, Johnson had been riding in the car just behind when, at 12:30, gunshots rang out, leading to the assassination of the 35th president. As the devastating news became official, the Secret Service grew concerned for Johnson’s safety and arranged his return to Washington and his family to ensure their protection. LBJ and his family were securely aboard Air Force One an hour after the hospital visit. During this return journey on November 22, 1963, Lyndon B. Johnson took the oath of office as the 36th president of the United States. The event was notably crowded, with 72 individuals squeezed aboard the aircraft.
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