Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

Ever flown through JFK airport? This is the moment it got its name.

On Christmas Eve 50 years ago, the New York International Airport paid a poignant tribute to the fallen US president.

CHRISTMAS EVE, traditionally a time for travelling home to loved ones. Train stations, bus depots, roads and airports hit peak traffic as people try to get on their way.

This photograph shows how the death of US president John F Kennedy in November 1963 added a moment of poignancy to the chaos at New York International Airport exactly fifty years ago today.

It pictures workmen changing the sign at the Van Wyck expressway entrance to the huge air hub just moments after it had been officially conferred with its new name: John F. Kennedy International Airport.

Those travelling through the airport that Christmas Eve fifty years ago would have been the first to pass under the new sign and been reminded of a tumultuous year for the US.

imageimage

To all the Irish diaspora in the US and elsewhere tonight, even if you don’t get to travel home through JFK – or at all – have a safe and happy Christmas.

Images: PA Archive

JFK would be proud of Ireland’s accomplishments – John Kerry>
In photos: JFK visits Ireland in 1963>
‘The Kennedys were more than emigrants’ – 50 years on, Wexford remembers JFK>

Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone...
A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

View 21 comments
Close
21 Comments
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.
    JournalTv
    News in 60 seconds