3.30.81: The day Reagan was shot.An introduction to the u.s. Secret Service
Let's take a closer look at one of the most eventful days in the history of the Secret Service.
March 30, 1981
On March 30, 1981, 69 days into his presidency, President Reagan leaves a speaking engagement at the Washington Hilton Hotel in Washington, D.C.
Suddenly shots are fired by lone-gunman John Hinckley Jr., hitting the President and three others.
The most seriously wounded is White House Press Secretary James Brady, who is left paralyzed from a gunshot wound to the head.
Hinckley also wounded Secret Service agent Tim McCarthy and Washington D.C. police officer Thomas Delahanty.
March 30, 1981
Relive that historic day in Secret Service history....
The aftermath...
Reagan recovers from his bullet-wound and completes two terms as President.
Reagan's would-be assassin, John Hinckley is found not guilty by reason of insanity and is placed under institutional psychiatric care.
On September 10, 2016, Hinckley is released and lives full-time at his mother's home.
Today, the Secret Service investigates thousands of incidents a year of individuals threatening the President of the United States.
Courage: That quality of mind that enables us to risk what we value for a higher purpose.
Secret Service Agent Garrett Landsbury speaks with Junior Police Academy cadets.
Our thanks to Agent Garrett Landsbury and the other unsung heroes of the U.S. Secret Service. Their courage in protecting our nation's leaders and their families reflects the highest standards for service.
The content was created for the Junior Police Academy.