The Controversial Death of JFK: How His Body Arrived at Bethesda
One of the most intriguing and controversial aspects of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy is the swift and mysterious transportation of his body from Dallas to Bethesda, Maryland, just 20 minutes before First Lady Jackie Kennedy arrived. This article explores the events and theories surrounding this mysterious journey.
Quick Movement of the Body
Following the assassination on November 22, 1963, President Kennedy's body was immediately placed in the rear compartment of Air Force One. Yet, within a short period of time, the body was transferred to an aluminum casket aboard a different aircraft, Air Force Two (AF2). Oddly, all attention was focused on Jackie Kennedy and Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson (LBJ), creating a moment of confusion and speculation.
Interestingly, this transfer was relatively smooth and quick. The CIA, which was involved in numerous intelligence operations, had the capability to coordinate the movement of the body swiftly. The distance from Dallas to Washington D.C. was only about 845 miles, and it would have taken a few hours for AF1 to arrive. Therefore, the swift transfer of the body to AF2 raised suspicions, with some suggesting that the body might have been switched or altered in some way.
Aluminum Casket and Alternative Explanation
The aluminum casket used for President Kennedy's body is a key point of discussion. The initial reports suggested that he was moved to a less visibly scrutinized aircraft, possibly to avoid the intense media attention. However, official records and eyewitness accounts from the time suggest that the transfer was a straightforward process and that no such switch occurred.
Barbara Streisand, the renowned Jewish American soprano, once mentioned a conspiracy theory suggesting that a body switch took place. However, one of JFK's best friends, a member of the so-called 'Irish Mafia,' quickly debunked this claim. This group, consisting of Kenneth O'Donnell, Dave Powers, and Larry O'Brien, were trusted confidants and political advisors. They had jobs in the White House and were involved in secuitry and influencing political strategies.
Secretive 'Irish Wake'
According to one of the best friends, the group organized a 'Irish Wake' on the way back to Washington D.C., where they drank and paid their respects while Jackie Kennedy remained alone. This event took place in a private area of Air Force Two, ensuring that no one witness the unattended body. The 'Irish Wake' also served as a cover story to deflect any questions or concerns about the body's movement.
Debunking the Conspiracy Theories
In David Lifton's book, 'Best Evidence,' he proposed that JFK's body was switched to cover up the direction of the wounds. This theory was met with strong opposition from those closest to JFK. The 'Irish Mafia,' being the trusted friends and advisors, refuted the switch theory, stating that they personally guarded the body continuously, ensuring its integrity and authenticity throughout the journey.
Dr. Cyril Wecht, a prominent forensic pathologist and one of the investigators of the Committee on Assassination, firmly believed that the theory of the body switch was impossible. He stated that the wounds would provide irrefutable evidence if any switch had occurred, making the claim baseless.
It is also believed that JFK's best friends played a significant role in ensuring the process went smoothly. They covered not only the transportation but also the personal needs of The First Lady. JFK's revelations about his ability to relax during debates with Nixon were rumored to be due to the help of his friends in procuring a prostitute to assist him. This story illustrates the deep trust and bonds that existed between JFK and his friends.
The Legacy and Ongoing Debates
The swift and mysterious movement of JFK's body remains one of the most debated aspects of one of America's most tragic events. The involvement of trusted friends and advisors adds a complex layer of human relations and trust to the story. While conspiracy theories continue to persist, the records and testimony of those closest to the event suggest the transfer of the body was conducted with utmost respect and integrity.
The ongoing debate over the death of JFK highlights the intersection of historical events, personal relationships, and the enduring fascination with one of the most pivotal moments in American history.