From the S&S archives:
'Part of me died with him,' NCO says

SEOUL — "When President Kennedy died a part of me died with him."

S/Sgt. Fred G. Gonzales said this to Pacific Stars and Stripes Saturday. Gonzales, a member of the United Nations Command Honor Guard, served two years with the Honor Guard Co., 1st Battle Group, 3rd Inf., in Washington.

When Kennedy was inaugurated. Gonzales stood on the same platform holding the presidential colors.

"We were on the last day of a. two-week field exercise Saturday," Gonzales said. "I was getting my equipment together when a. soldier rushed in and said the President had been killed. I just stood there looking at him. I was stunned."

The tall. lean sergeant put his hands over his face and turned his head away for a moment.

"If the President had told me to die tomorrow, I would die," he said simply. "He was a great man."

Gonzales added, "He was one of the strongest and most capable leaders I have ever known, but he was always pleasant, courteous and considerate to all."

Gonzales was also head of the U.S. Army precision drill team during his tour of duty with the honor guard.

He has participated in, honor guard ceremonies for such dignitaries as Prime Minister Harold MacMillan of Britain, Prime Minister Nehru of India and many others.

Gonzales has also served as the presidential flag bearer at White House receptions.

"In my opinion," he said, "'President Kennedy was one of the greatest Americans who has ever lived. It is impossible for me to adequately express my feelings of a deep personal loss."

Gonzales has been a member of the UNC Honor Guard in the Republic of Korea for five months.