Attempted Assassination of Ronald Reagan
An Overview of the Shocking Event
On March 30, 1981, President Ronald Reagan escaped an assassination attempt by a lone gunman outside a Washington D.C. hotel.
Aftermath of the Attack
As Reagan was leaving the Hilton Hotel after a speech to 5000 members of the AFL, he was shot in the chest by John Hinckley Jr., a disturbed drifter. The bullet struck Reagan just below his left armpit and lodged in his lung, causing significant damage. Secret Service Agent Tim McCarthy and Washington Police Officer Thomas Delahanty were also shot.
Tragically, Hinckley's shots struck White House Press Secretary James Brady in the head, causing severe injuries. Brady remained partially paralyzed and unable to speak for the rest of his life.
Reagan's Recovery and Response
Despite the severity of his injuries, Reagan survived the assassination attempt and made a remarkable recovery. He went on to serve the remainder of his presidency with the same determination and spirit he had before the attack.
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