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Antenucci, Alfred [Assassination Attempt on President Reagan] (1)
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135840927
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Antenucci, Alfred [Assassination Attempt on President Reagan] (1)
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Records of the Office of Counsel to the President (Reagan Administration)
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Ronald Reagan Presidential Library Digital Library Collections This is a PDF of a folder from our textual collections. Collection: Hauser, Richard A.: Files Folder Title: Antenucci, Alfred [Assassination Attempt on President Reagan] [1 of 3] Box: OA 6195 To see more digitized collections visit: https://reaganlibrary.gov/archives/digital-library To see all Ronald Reagan Presidential Library inventories visit: https://reaganlibrary.gov/document-collection Contact a reference archivist at: [email protected] Citation Guidelines: https://reaganlibrary.gov/citing 345827 ID # WHITE HOUSE JL003-01 CORRESPONDENCE TRACKING WORKSHEET o OUTGOING DEH- who's on this ? H INTERNAL X I . INCOMING Date Correspondence Received (YY/MM/DD) 85/09/16 Name of Correspondent: /Mr. Mrs. Miss Hon.DelbertL. Latta MI Mail Report User Codes: (A) (B) (C) Subject: Simonis who refers to newsarticle Encloses letter from Francis about deceased alfred A. antenucci ROUTE TO: ACTION DISPOSITION Tracking Type Completion Action Date of Date Office/Agency (Staff Name) Code YY/MM/DD Response Code YY/MM/DD DONO CoNyde ORIGINATOR 85/09/17 TR 85/0/ CKFiel Referral Note: A 85/09/18 85/0/ Referral Note: WATON L 18109119 PY 58510912 - Referral Note: / / / / - Referral Note: / / / / - Referral Note: ACTION CODES: DISPOSITION CODES: A Appropriate Action I - Info Copy Only/No Action Necessary A - Answered C Completed C - Comment/Recommendation R - Direct Reply w/Copy B . . Non-Special Referral S Suspended D . Draft Response S - For Signature F - Furnish Fact Sheet X Interim Reply to be used as Enclosure FOR OUTGOING CORRESPONDENCE: Type of Response = Initials of Signer Code = "A" Completion Date = Date of Outgoing Comments: Keep this worksheet attached to the original Incoming letter. Send all routing updates to Central Reference (Room 75, OEOB). Always return completed correspondence record to Central Files. Refer questions about the correspondence tracking system to Central Reference, ext. 2590. 5/81 THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON December 17, 1985 Dear Congressman Latta: I am writing in further response to your letter to Alan M. Kranowitz, Deputy Assistant to the President, concerning an inquiry from your constituent, Mr. Francis Simonis, on the status of compensation for the family of Alfred Antenucci. After careful review, it was determined that there are no federal funds available for reimbursement of Mr. Antenucci's medical expenses. In light of that discovery, we encouraged Mr. Antenucci's family to contact the James S. Brady Presidential Foundation for assistance. The Brady Foundation, named in honor of the President's Press Secretary, who was seriously wounded in the assassination attempt, is a private organization founded to assist any needy individual wounded or killed in an assassination attempt on any senior federal official, presidential candidate or on family members of the President and Vice President of the United States, and to provide assistance to that individual's family. It is our understanding that the Foundation will consider this matter in the near future. We hope you find this information helpful. Sincerely, Richard Actouse Richard A. Hauser Deputy Counsel to the President The Honorable Delbert Latta U.S. House of Representatives Washington, D.C. 20515 THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON December 16, 1985 MEMORANDUM FOR RICHARD HAUSER FROM: MERI LARSON SUBJECT: Brady Foundation I spoke with Pat Frierson of the Brady Foundation about the Antenucci family and whether or not the Foundation was able to provide financial assistance. Pat explained the problems the Foundation Board members have had in getting together to decide on the Antenucci matter. She seemed sure that the family would be receiving assistance as soon as the committee has its meeting within the next couple of months. Please advise of the changes you would like in the letter to Congressman Latta. 345827 THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON September 16, 1985 Dear Del: Thank you for your September 11 letter forwarding a letter from your constituent, Mr. Francis Simonis, who has requested information about the status of compensation for the family of Alfred Antenucci. Your special interest is appreciated, and please know that I have forwarded this request to the appropriate office for attention. With best wishes. Cordially, Alan- Alan M. Kranowitz Deputy Assistant to the President The Honorable Delbert Latta House of Representatives Washington, D.C. 20515 CC: Anne Higgins - for your action. It would be appreciated if a copy of any response could be forwarded to Legislative Affairs (112 EW). Thank you. DELBERT L. LATTA COMMITTEES: RULES 5TH DISTRICT, OHIO BUDGET Congress of the United States house of Representatives Mashington, DC 20515 September 11, 1985 Mr. Alan Kranowitz Assistant to the President The White House Washington, D. C. 20500 Dear Mr Kranowitz: Enclosed is copy of a letter I have received from Mr. Francis L. Simonis, Defiance, Ohio 43512. Your assistance in replying to Mr. Simonis would be appreciated. Sincerely, Are DELBERT L. LATTA Representative to Congress DLL:flh Enc. Dream The Latta, Last spring S send of The man that saved Preo Reagan from being killed by knocking form John the Hinckley and all at promises time of his act. made to him The story Issued zuiced lo kind and more of the promose made to Jon and family were ever part. Please find out 11 lot came of the stuation ever Refer to Feb 17, 1985, Plain Date comprace may The many name of you = it not remember was alfred A. antinucci of Darfield Heghts a Cleveland serbort. Associa Siricarly L Simones 731 Reversal are To strance, Sheo 4351 2 236968 ID #. WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENCE TRACKING WORKSHEET 0 . OUTGOING C P HE H . INTERNAL I . INCOMING Date Correspondence OBM Received (YY/MM/DD) Telephone call to Comments office Name of Correspondent: /7Mr. Mrs. /7Miss maria Bennett MI Mail Report User Codes: (A) (B) (C) Subject: Daughter of deceased alfred antenucci seeks promised payment of father's hospital and other bells ROUTE TO: ACTION DISPOSITION Tracking Type Completion Action Date of Date Office/Agency (Staff Name) Code YY/MM/DD Response Code YY/MM/DD Dono E Collyde ORIGINATOR 84/06/14 S 8410' 109 Fred Fielding Referral Note: A 84/06/15 [KICT C 841$105 Referral Note: CUAT09 A 84106,19 PR A 84/11/105 Referral Note: PR letr also to Marreen Reagan CJ Jaymep wi Ider other / / Referral Note: / / / / - Referral Note: ACTION CODES: DISPOSITION CODES: A - Appropriate Action I Info Copy Only/No Action Necessary A Answered C Completed C * Comment/Recommendation R - Direct Reply w/Copy B - Non-Special Referral S Suspended D Draft Response S - For Signature F . Furnish Fact Sheet X - Interim Reply to be used as Enclosure FOR OUTGOING CORRESPONDENCE: Type of Response = Initials of Signer Code = "A" Completion Date = Date of Outgoing Comments: States RR called father while in hospital on 5/2/81 mr. a. was visited by Sec. R. Dononan and R. Bonatati (see attached heroism) file for details of Keep this worksheet attached to the original incoming letter. Send all routing updates to Central Reference (Room 75, OEOB). Always return completed correspondence record to Central Files. Refer questions about the correspondence tracking system to Central Reference, ext. 2590. 5/81 THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON November 5, 1984 Dear Maureen: As we discussed, enclosed is a copy of the letter we have sent to Maria Antenucci Bennett, the woman who telephoned you about her Father, Alfred Antenucci, who died earlier this year from a heart condition that she believes developed from his efforts to subdue John Hinckley, Jr. during the assassination attempt. Please feel free to call me again if you have any questions or need further information. Sincerely, Peter J. Rusthoven Associate Counsel to the President Ms. Maureen Reagan c/o The Republican National Committee 310 First Street, S.E. Washington, D.C. 20003 Enclosure THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON November 5, 1984 Dear Mrs. Bennett: I wanted to advise you of the steps we have taken in response to your letters and telephone calls about the medical expenses incurred by your Father, Alfred Antenucci, prior to his death earlier this year from a heart condition that you believe developed from his efforts to subdue the President's assailant during the March 1981 attempt on the President's life. Although we carefully reviewed not only your letters but all file materials about your Father, it appears there are simply no Federal funds (aside, of course, from benefits that might be provided for by law to any citizen) that would be available for reimbursement of his medical expenses. We also, however, asked officials of the James S. Brady Presidential Foundation to review informally correspondence from you and members of your family and other materials, such as newspaper articles, about your Father's actions during the assassination attempt. The Brady Foundation, named in honor of the President's Press Secretary who was seriously wounded in that attempt, is a private organization founded to assist any needy individual wounded or killed in an assassination attempt on any senior Federal official, Presidential candidate or on family members of the President and Vice President of the United States, and to provide assistance to that individual's family. Because it is a private organization, its decisions on whether assistance is warranted in a particular case are of course its own, and would depend on its review of all the relevant facts after a formal application for assistance was submitted. Hence, we can make no promises about what decision the Foundation would make if such a formal application were made on behalf of your family; but officials of the Foundation have indicated to us, based on their informal review of the materials we submitted, that it is possible that assistance to your family may be appropriate under the Foundation's charter. If you wish to pursue this possibility, the Brady Foundation official you should contact is James A. Wilderotter, Esquire, an attorney with the Washington office of the law firm of Jones, Day, Reavis & Pogue, 1735 Eye Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006. Mr. Wilderotter is familiar with the terms of the Foundation's charter, and should be able to provide you or your attorney with details about what kinds of information the Foundation would need to consider a request for its assistance with your Father's medical expenses. -2- In closing, I want to emphasize that we fully understand that your principal concern in this matter is not reimbursement for any expenses that were incurred, but rather that your Father's efforts to assist the President -- and how much that meant to your Father -- be recognized. We also understand, as your letters make clear, that for various reasons you believe that members of the President's staff have not been as sensitive to this as they should. I hope you will accept our apologies for any acts or omissions that may have led to such feelings on your part, and would ask only that you also accept that no member of the President's staff has ever had any desire or intent to be insensitive to your Father, his family or the memory of the actions he took when the President's life was threatened. Sincerely, Peter J. Rusthoven Associate Counsel to the President Mrs. Maria Antenucci Bennett 10844 Brunswick Road Garfield Heights, Ohio 44125 CC: James A. Wilderotter, Esquire bcc: Ms. Maureen Reagan THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON November 5, 1984 Dear Jim: Enclosed is a copy of the letter we have sent to Maria Antenucci Bennett, whose Father, Alfred Antenucci, died earlier this year from a heart condition that she believes developed from his efforts to subdue John Hinckley, Jr. during the assassination attempt. As we discussed after your informal review of the materials our office forwarded about this matter, we have suggested that Mrs. Bennett contact the Brady Foundation through you, while representing no more than that it is "possible" assistance "may be appropriate under the Foundation's charter." I want to thank you personally all your help and courtesy on this matter, which are very greatly appreciated. With best regards, Sincerely, Peter J. Rusthoven Associate Counsel to the President James A. Wilderotter, Esquire Jones, Day, Reavis & Pogue 1735 Eye Street, N.W. Washington, D.C. 20006 Enclosure THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON November 5, 1984 Dear Mrs. Bennett: I wanted to advise you of the steps we have taken in response to your letters and telephone calls about the medical expenses incurred by your Father, Alfred Antenucci, prior to his death earlier this year from a heart condition that you believe developed from his efforts to subdue the President's assailant during the March 1981 attempt on the President's life. Although we carefully reviewed not only your letters but all file materials about your Father, it appears there are simply no Federal funds (aside, of course, from benefits that might be provided for by law to any citizen) that would be available for reimbursement of his medical expenses. We also, however, asked officials of the James S. Brady Presidential Foundation to review informally correspondence from you and members of your family and other materials, such as newspaper articles, about your Father's actions during the assassination attempt. The Brady Foundation, named in honor of the President's Press Secretary who was seriously wounded in that attempt, is a private organization founded to assist any needy individual wounded or killed in an assassination attempt on any senior Federal official, Presidential candidate or on family members of the President and Vice President of the United States, and to provide assistance to that individual's family. Because it is a private organization, its decisions on whether assistance is warranted in a particular case are of course its own, and would depend on its review of all the relevant facts after a formal application for assistance was submitted. Hence, we can make no promises about what decision the Foundation would make if such a formal application were made on behalf of your family; but officials of the Foundation have indicated to us, based on their informal review of the materials we submitted, that it is possible that assistance to your family may be appropriate under the Foundation's charter. If you wish to pursue this possibility, the Brady Foundation official you should contact is James A. Wilderotter, Esquire, an attorney with the Washington office of the law firm of Jones, Day, Reavis & Pogue, 1735 Eye Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006. Mr. Wilderotter is familiar with the terms of the Foundation's charter, and should be able to provide you or your attorney with details about what kinds of information the Foundation would need to consider a request for its assistance with your Father's medical expenses. -2- In closing, I want to emphasize that we fully understand that your principal concern in this matter is not reimbursement for any expenses that were incurred, but rather that your Father's efforts to assist the President -- and how much that meant to your Father -- be recognized. We also understand, as your letters make clear, that for various reasons you believe that members of the President's staff have not been as sensitive to this as they should. I hope you will accept our apologies for any acts or omissions that may have led to such feelings on your part, and would ask only that you also accept that no member of the President's staff has ever had any desire or intent to be insensitive to your Father, his family or the memory of the actions he took when the President's life was threatened. Sincerely, f. Peter J. Rusthoven Associate Counsel to the President Mrs. Maria Antenucci Bennett 10844 Brunswick Road Garfield Heights, Ohio 44125 CC: James A. Wilderotter, Esquire August 8, 1984 Mr. Peter Rusthoven Associate Counsel to the President c/o The White House Old Executive Office Bldg. Room 115 Washington, D.C. 20500 Dear Mr. Rusthoven: This letter is in response to our telephone conversation of Friday, August 3, 1984. The main purpose of my letter to President Reagan was not the money. The primary reason that my family was so upset was that the recognition of my Dad was handled so poorly. Many people on the White House staff made promises to my Dad that were not kept. It was and is still very important to me and my family that the President see my letter. For it is his life that my Dad saved, not yours or anybody elses. I feel that the President should know the events that have occurred over the last three and a half years. My Father died on May 9, 1984. Five days later we received a letter addressed to my Father from the President. This letter was written and postmarked May 10, 1984. I wonder how you, the President, or anyone else would feel if this happened to a member of your family. We realize that the letter was sent in good faith and appreciate his concern, however we feel that the staff of the President should not have handled this matter so poorly. My Father's death has not yet been properly acknowledged. You said to me on the phone, that even if the President did see the letter you would be the one to handle the reply. I am sure that this is true, however, I feel that the President should see it. If he chooses not to acknowledge us he has that privilege, but I think it is only fair that he has that choice. When I wrote the first letter, it was my hope that the President would somehow recognize my Father's brave, unselfish, and heroic act. My family has dealt with the President on a personal level and I feel that my letter should be given this courtesy. After all, it would show some concern for our feelings. I hope I have made my feelings clear in this letter and I hope that you understand my reason for sending this second letter. Sincerly yours, Maria arteruce - Bennett Maria Antenucci-Bennett 10844 Brunswick Rd. Garfield Hts., OH 44125 Home: (216) 581-0556 Work: (216) 522-7185 THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON Date: July 31, 1984 MEMORANDUM FOR: James A. Wilderotter FROM: PETER J. RUSTHOVEN Associate Counsel to the President ACTION: Please handle/review For your information For the files Please see me As we discussed Please return to me for filing COMMENT: Pl, call (456-6500) if you have any questions. Thanks for thing L 10th at this - - 616 June 14, 1984 President Ronald W. Reagan The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Washington, D.C. 20500 Dear Mr. President, My Dad was Alfred Antenucci. As you know, he tackled John Hinckley on March 30, 1981. The next day when he was in Georgetown University Hospital, he was visited by a cabinet member and a staff member of the White House. He was promised at that time that his medical bills and family expenses would be paid. As of this date, my parents have paid $28,000.00 in medical expenses. These bills are a direct result of the assassination attempt. My Dad never asked for anything. He thought that if what he did was appreciated, someone would make sure that he got some- thing. When he saw the others involved that day get bonuses, he wondered why he never received anything. He never wanted anything if it did not come from the heart and in good faith. He was promised an invitation to the White House to have his picture taken with you and our family, which included my Dad, amily, and my daughter and myself. rite date ver wanted in recognition of his PJR ny other things that are too :, when promises are made, they ou take someone at their word, you -x1 rept. He often wondered why they He died of an irregular heart- find letter lar heartbeat or any other heart 1. The shooting upset him SO r it. He suffered SO much in the to all oud of his President and his 6/18 ssed down to his children. I in the U.S. District Court in ten years. We are very proud of my Dad and the part he played in history. I know that if he had to do it again, he would do the same thing in a minute because it was the right thing to do. He reacted in a split second, and because of it, no one was killed. He was never publicly acknowledged for this, and he never knew why. My Dad may have changed the course of history by preventing the assassination of the President of the United States elected in a zero year. This, however, is for history to judge. I do not want my father's name to be lost in the shuf- fle of history, and I sincerely hope that you do something to prevent this. Mr. President, my Dad was very pleased and honored to have met you in Chicago in September, 1981, and to have been invited to the White House by one of your aides for lunch in April, 1982. We do realize you are a busy man and that you have world bur- dens to consider. However, you seemed SO concerned when he was in the hospital, but since his death we have not heard anything. We can't help but wonder why. Our lives have never been the same since March 30, 1981, and now our lives will never be the same without my Dad. I truly hope you yourself see this letter, and I thank you for taking the time to read it. Very truly yours, Maria antexucce Bexnett Maria Antenucci Bennett 10844 Brunswick Road Garfield Heights, Ohio 44125 (216) 581-0556 april 29, 1981 mr. President: enough to speak on Television It was good to see you feeling the nation last might we have en graying for you and the other ree men that were injured. we Do grateful that no one was silled. we also suffered personally this troumatic experience they usband was standing in back 8 Timbley. when he realized he was the one shooting be jumped on his back and started hitting him to change his line of fire. He held in him down until the S.S. men fell on top of him, Then be got ont of the way so the S.S. men could be. charge, while he was being restioned his blood pressure 8 muol QTQ he started swing uregular heart beats. He as nucled to Georgetown univ. ospital He was hysterical and ind for three days and nights. He mained in the hospital for ten up ustie they stabilized his lood pressure and heart beats. He much better now least still is nder heavy medication. He will irer forget that aftersoon. He is Business Representative in The penters usion and was at the cton for the convention. we agree its you that this is not a sick nation, we have received so many beautiful cards I letters from people praying for my husband. we have Is benoverulelned. The muses is Doctors at The hospital were ni, Russo got in touch with keeping reporters away from wonderful working nith him. eservations for us to come home and had his office staff make 20 provided transportation to the inport wish and also kept reporters away nice, to thank them for being mr. Ray Donovan was loved to visit my husband and esented him with cuff lisks and the clasp which he will treasure the rest of his life. my lushard CS the rest of our family and actions Roses that his quick thinkings he saved someone from being killed and most of are the President. we cannot bear another John Kennedy Bobby Kennedy and coedy. Sincerely maitin futher K ing mr. alfed anterned and family Hard-Hat Hero, 68, Proves His Love for America Hilton with the TV cameras / Belted That Creep When He Started and news people. Right next to me stood this weird-looking Shooting at Our President educate my kids and build a guy. He was wearing a long fine home for my family. I lit- overcoat buttoned all the way erally did build my home with up. His hands were thrust By ALFRED ANTENUCCI my own hands in a suburb of deep in his pockets. He I was roaring curses as I crushed my knee Cleveland, Ohio. needed a haircut, and I re- into the cowardly neck of would-be assassin John I'm the president of the member thinking, "Gee, this Hinckley Jr. Seconds earlier I had clubbed him to Carpenter's Union Local 1750 guy's neck is dirty." in Cleveland. I was in Wash- Suddenly, my attention was the ground with my bare fists as he pumped a ington, D.C., on the day of the diverted to the door of the barrage of shots at our beloved President outside assassination attempt, at- Hilton. The President came the Washington Hilton tending the annual Building out. You all remember what Hotel. own bootstraps, from shoe- shine boy to union boss, in the and Construction Trades Con- happened next. ALFRED ANTENUCCI I'm in love with Ameri- vention at the Hilton. In a flash I saw a gun ap- American tradition. My dad ca. And when this creep was an immigrant from Italy. I missed President Rea- pear in Hinckley's fists. He Reagan Himself Hinckley, who was stand- gan's speech at the hotel, but I held it with two hands and I fought and worked my wanted to get a look at him fired off the first shot. I raised ing next to me, began fir- and was waiting outside the both my fists above my head Called to Thank way up from the bottom to ing, I did what any red- and clubbed them down on blooded American would the back of Hinckley's head. I Me Personally do for his President and heard another shot and I kept battering him. It's one of my goals to im- country. I belted him! With each blow, Hinckley press upon our citizens that sank lower and kept firing. He it's vital we all help each oth- I hammered him to the was crouched between my er." ground as he sprayed the legs when the Secret Service How do I feel about it? President and his men with bullets. men piled on. My heart goes out to the I was raging mad. America Hinckley family - most of all I was right in the middle of that crush of Secret Service belongs to each and every one to Hinckley's mom. I know of us. We're free. We can elect how it feels to be a parent. I agents and police you saw on our leaders and throw them have a son who's a golf pro TV immediately after the as- out. We can say what we want and a daughter who is a fed- sassination attempt. We were and believe what we want. eral jury commissioner in all on top of Hinckley. After I got out of the hospi- Cleveland. I have three lovely I landed in the hospital for tal, President Reagan him- grandchildren. 10 days with high blood pres- self called to say thanks per- I'm proud that me, the son sure and an irregular heart- sonally. It was the biggest of an immigrant, was able to beat - but I'd do it again. thrill of my life. The Presi- I'm 68 years old. I'm only provide a good life for my dent said, "Thank you for the family. 5 feet 2 inches tall, but for courageous action you took our President and America We have a system in this outside the Hilton. We need I'd fight an army of John country whereby the poorest more guys like you around. kid on the block can become Hinckley Juniors. MOMENTS after shots were fired at President, Ante- What you did was brave. You I pulled myself up by my President. I'm proud to be nucci and assailant were under this police pile-up. had 110 thought for yourself. American. 0 People By PHIL ROURA and TOM POSTER Carpenter who saved Reagan waits for OF 'thank-you' Alfred A. Antenucci is a very disappointed man. and then suffered what everyone thought was a heart He sits by the telephone in his kitchen in a suburb of 'Nobody has called (or) has attack. He was confined to bed for 10 days. Cleveland, waiting for a call from the White House, "It wasn't a heart attack, but heart palpitations, an or at least from a high-ranking presidential alde. talked to me.'-Al Antenucci Irregular heartbeat, and I've been on strong medica- Antenueci believes he is entitled to the call. So do his tion since," he said. "I'm sick as a dog and weak. The friends and some Secret Service and FBI agents. medicine caused terrible diarrhea and the doctors say Why? Because on March 30, Antenucci was the they've got to do something, but don't know what." first person to pounce on John W. Hinckley Jr. as Sounding as if he was on the verge of tears, Hinckley allegedly fired six shots at President Antenucci added: "I'm really upset. You know, I Reagan. As a result, Antenucci suffered chest pains would give my life for my President. I remember that landed him in George Washington University standing there and seeing that gun. I saw the gun. He Hospital, the same place Reagan was taken. was next to me. I'm 68, I can't fight a kid. So I hit him "I CAN'T BELIEVE this myself, no matter how on the back of the neck as hard as I could and his hard I try," Antenucel, a 68-year-old carpenters gun, which he held with two hands almed right at union business agent, said in an exclusive Interview Reagan, came down. He kept shooting with one hand. with the People Page. "Not a word. Not a sound. "I WAS TOLD later by hlgh authorities that four Nobody has called. Nobody has talked to me since I of the six shots hit the sidewalk and probably one of was in the hospital. I would give my life to save the those bullets ricocheted and hit Reagan. I pounded President. I'm not looking for any honors, but you him. I tried to break the alm of flre. But there is would think that there would be somebody who doubt In my mind now. I have trouble sleeping. I would say something. Like during Reagan's speech keep thinking that if I shoved him Instead that I to Congress. About 23 people came over and said the could have stopped him. I jumped on him, I was resident would thank me because It would be his punching him and wrapped my legs around him. first public talk. But not a word." "Then all the Secret Service men jumped on top Antenucci had attended the AFL-CIO meeting that of us and they were yelling at me, Get the hell out of Reagan addressed at the Washington Ililton Hotel here,' but I couldn't move because my leg was under March 30, and he was outside the hotel when the Hinckley. Goil, it seems like It never happened but it President was shot. After subduing the suspect, did. I'd do It again. I'd give my life for my President. Antenueel was Interrogated by FBI agents for hours UPI But I feel like nobody cares." Belli high on plea Linda to walk plank Flamboyant Inwyer Melvin Belll, the "King This one's for the producers of the hit of Torts," yesterday blasted President Reagan's musical "The Pirates of Penzance." Sorry, chief of staff, Ed Meese 3d, for proposing the folks, but your big star, Linda Ronstadt, la climination of the Insanity plea In criminal leaving in early Man Who Struck Shooting Suspect Ignored by Reagan CLEVELAND (UPI)-Labor leader Alfred Antenuc- ci. who grappled with the man who allegedly shot Pres- LOS ANGELES TIMES - about May 5 to 15, 1981 ident Reagan and possibly spoiled his aim, said Friday that he was disappointed the President did not mention his name in his address to Congress on Tuesday. Before speaking about his economic package, Reagan offered tributes to the three other men wounded on March 30. Antenucci, the president of Carpenters Union Local 1750, said he would have felt better if the President had mentioned his name. "I'm a little disappointed," he said. "I was hoping (Reagan would say something). but he must have his reasons." Standing Next to Suspect Antenucci, 68. was standing next to John W. Hin- ckley. the man accused of shooting Reagan, outside the Washington Hilton. He said he started hitting the sus- pect on the head after the first shots were fired, and it may have spoiled the man's aim. Antenucci was taken to Georgetown University Hos- pital after he complained of chest pains and shortness of breath. During his hospital stay. he was visited by Secretary of Labor Raymond J. Donovan. and Antenucci said Do- novan promised him that Reagan would acknowledge his assistance at some future time. However, Antenucci said, "I've not even received a card from anyone.' PM-REAGAN-SUBDUE 4-1 CLEVELAND LABOR LEADER ILL AFTER GRABBING REAGAN'S ATTACKER CLEYELAND (UPI) ALFRED ANTENUCCI, HEAD OF THE OHIO BUILDING TRADES UNION, IS HOSPITALIZED IN WASHINGTON WITH AN IRREGULAR HEARTBEAT HE SUFFERED A FEW HOURS AFTER HE HELPED TACKLE THE MAN ACCUSED OF SHOOTING PRESIDENT REAGAN, LABOR OFFICIALS IN CLEVELAND SAID TODAY. ANTENUCCI, 68, OF GARFIELD HEIGHTS, OHIO, WAS IN FAIR CONDITION IN THE CORONARY CARE UNIT AT GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL. ANTENUCCI, HEAD OF THE OHIO AFL-CIO BUILDING TRADES UNION, AND ANOTHER CLEVELAND-ARER LABOR OFFICIAL, FRANK J. MCNAMARA, 62, WERE STANDING OUTSIDE THE WASHINGTON HILTON HOTEL MONDRY RETERNOON: HOPING TO SEE THE PRESIDENT WHEN REAGAN WAS SHOT. ANTENUCCI AND MCNAMARA, PRESIDENT OF THE OHIO STATE BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION TRADES COUNCIL, HAD JUST ATTENDED THE AFL-CIO TRADE CONFERENCE THAT REAGAN ADDRESSED BEFORE HE WAS SHOT. THEY ORIGINALLY PLANNED TO GO GOLFING, BUT STAYED AT THE HOTEL BECAUSE OF RAIN. THEY TRIED TO GET INSIDE THE HOTEL TO HEAR REAGAN'S SPEECH, BUT THE DOOR WAS LOCKED. "WE KNEW THE SPEECH WAS GOING TO BE FINISHED SOON, SO WE STOOD OUTSIDE, WRITING TO GLIMPSE REAGAN," MCNAMARA SAID. AS THEY WRITED, ANTENUCCI TOLD HIS SON, DOMINIC, BY TELEPHONE MONDAY NIGHT, "I SAW 8 YOUNG MAN STANDING IN FRONT OF ME WITH HIS HANDS IN HIS POCKETS. "THE NEXT THING I KNEW, HE HAD PULLED A GUN OUT OF HIS POCKET,' ANTENUCCI SAID. "I SAW THE GUN FIRE TWO SHOTS. MY FIRST REACTION WAS TO PUNCH HIM. I PUNCHED HIM A COUPLE TIMES." ANTENUCCI TOLD HIS SON HE JUMPED ON THE ALLEGED GUNMAN, JOHN W. HINCKLEY, 25, OF EVERGREEN, COLO. IN THE FRACAS THAT FOLLOWED, HE SAID, HE WAS STRUCK BY ONE OF THE SECRET SERVICE AGENTS TRYING TO DISARM THE MAN. MCNAMARA SAID HE WAS STANDING NEAR ANTENUCCI WHEN "THE PRESIDENT CAME OUT (AND) THIS PUNK STARTED SHOOTING.' "THAT'S WHEN WE WENT AFTER THE GUY, MCNAMARA SAID. "AL GRABBED HIM FIRST, AL HAS MORE GUTS THAN ANYBODY ELSE, "THEN 1 STARTED PUNCHING HIM (THE GUNMAN). 1 HIT HIM SO HARD IN THE HEAD I WAS LEFT WITH BLOOD ON MY KNUCKLES," HE SRID. MCNAMARA SRID HE WASN'T AFRAID DURING THE INCIDENT BECAUSE "THINGS WERE HAPPENING T00 FAST FOR ME TO BE FRIGHTENED, BOTH MEN WERE QUESTIONED BY THE FBI, AND ANTENUCCI BECAME EMOTIONALLY UPSET, COMPLAINING OF AN IRREGULAR HEARTBERT, HIS SON SAID, HE WAS TAKEN TO GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL BY R SECRET SERVICE AGENT AND ADMITTED IN THE CORONARY CARE UNIT. THE TWO MEN HEADED A GROUP OF ABOUT 350 OHIO BUILDING TRADES PEOPLE ATTENDING THE THREE-DAY CONFERENCE. UDT are one to Glenn. Thanks RAD. \ 1 ID# 232726 THE WHITE HOUSE CORRESPONDENCE TRACKING WORKSHEET CLL003-01 INCOMING DATE RECEIVED: JULY 16, 1984 C O P Y NAME OF CORRESPONDENT: THE HONORABLE JOHN GLENN SUBJECT: WRITES ON BEHALF OF MARIE ANTENUCCI BENNETT from ORM REGARDING HER LATE FATHER, ALFRED ANTENUCCI, RELATIVE TO EVENTS ON MAR 30 81 ACTION DISPOSITION ROUTE TO: ACT DATE TYPE C COMPLETED OFFICE/AGENCY (STAFF NAME) CODE YY/MM/DD RESP D YY/MM/DD Ch Rust M. B OGLESBY REFERRAL NOTE: ORG A 84/07/16 no A 84,08,03 04/08/03 ABHILTOS REFERRAL NOTE: / / / / REFERRAL NOTE: / / 7 / REFERRAL NOTE: / / / / REFERRAL NOTE: COMMENTS: See ID236968 D ADDITIONAL CORRESPONDENTS: MEDIA:L INDIVIDUAL CODES: 1210 MAIL USER CODES: (A) (B) (C) ACTION CODES: *DISPOSITION CODES: *OUTGOING * * * * CORRESPONDENCE: * *A-APPROPRIATE ACTION *A-ANSWERED *TYPE RESP=INITIALS * *C-COMMENT/RECOM *B-NON-SPEC-REFERRAL * OF SIGNER * *D-DRAFT RESPONSE *C-COMPLETED * CODE = A * *F-FURNISH FACT SHEET *S-SUSPENDED *COMPLETED = DATE OF * *I-INFO COPY/NO ACT NEC* * OUTGOING * *R-DIRECT REPLY W/COPY * * * *S-FOR-SIGNATURE * * * *X-INTERIM REPLY * * * REFER QUESTIONS AND ROUTING UPDATES TO CENTRAL REFERENCE (ROOM 75,OEOB) EXT. 2590 KEEP THIS WORKSHEET ATTACHED TO THE ORIGINAL INCOMING LETTER AT ALL TIMES AND SEND COMPLETED RECORD TO RECORDS MANAGEMENT. THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON November 5, 1984 Dear Senator Glenn: Thank you for your letter to Assistant to the President M. B. Oglesby, Jr., forwarding the letter you received from Maria Antenucci Bennett about the medical expenses incurred by her Father, Alfred Antenucci, prior to his death earlier this year from a heart condition that she believes developed from his efforts to subdue the President's assailant during the March 1981 attempt on the President's life. After carefully reviewing the materials we had received from Mrs. Bennett and others about his matter, it appeared that there are simply no Federal funds (aside, of course, from benefits that might be provided for by law to any citizen) that would be available for reimbursement of these medical expenses. We also, however, asked officials of the James S. Brady Presidential Foundation to review informally information about Mr. Antenucci's actions during the assassination attempt. Because the Brady Foundation is a private organization, its decisions on whether assistance is warranted in a particular case are of course its own, and would depend on its review of all the relevant facts after a formal application for assis- tance was submitted. Hence, we can make no promises about what decision the Foundation would make if such a formal application were made on behalf of the Antenucci family. Officials of the Foundation have indicated to us, however, based on their informal review of the materials our office submitted, that it is possible that assistance to the family may be appropriate under the Foundation's charter. Accordingly, we have advised Mrs. Bennett of the foregoing and provided her information about contacting the Foundation. I hope this letter has helped respond to your concerns, and appreciate your advising the White House of your interest. Sincerely, Peter J. Rusthoven Associate Counsel to the President The Honorable John Glenn United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510 CC: M. B. Oglesby, Jr. August 3, 1984 Dear Senator Glenn: Thank you for your recent letter outlining Marie Antenucci Bennett's concerns regarding the Administration's actions following her father's death. Your special interest is appreciated. Please know that the appropriate Administration officials are currently reviewing these concerns. I have asked that you be notified as soon as there is any additional information to relay. With best wishes, Sincerely, N. E. Oglesby, Jr. Assistant to the President The Honorable John Glenn United States Senate Washington, D.C. 20510 MBO:KRJ:JID:jid CC: w/copy of inc to Peter Rusthoven, Rm 115 - for appropriate action XX May 14, 1984 Mrs. Jo Ann Antenucci 5387 East 111th Street Garfield Heights, Ohio 44125 Nancy and I send our condolences on Mr. Antenucci's death. May Our Lord console you with His peace and warm memories of your life together. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. With our deep sympathy, RONALD REAGAN Anne Higgins 456-7610 RR:AVH:KCS:pps bcc: Jane Davis, Legis. Affs. JOHN GLENN 232726 COMMITTEES: OHIO FOREIGN RELATIONS GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON AGING United States Senate WASHINGTON, D.C. 20510 July 13, 1984 The Honorable M. B. Oglesby The White House Congressional Liaison 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue Washington, D. C. 20500 Dear Mr. Oglesby: I have been contacted by one of my constituents, Marie Antenucci Bennett, regarding her late fathers role in subduing John Hinckley when he attacked the President in 1981. Mrs. Bennett feels very strongly that certain promises were made to her father during his hospital stay (he suffered an irregular heart beat and high blood pressure after helping subdue Hinckley) and that these promises were never kept. All of this was explained in a letter from Mrs. Bennett to the President dated June 14, 1984. Mrs. Bennett has since called the White House on several occasions regarding her letter because she feels very emotional about her father and the lack of com- passion she and her family are receiving from the President. I would appreciate it if this matter could be thoroughly reviewed and a written report sent to my office as soon as feasible. Thank you for your prompt attention this matter. Sincerely John Glenn John Glenn United States Senator JG/ds June 14, 1984 IV#23-968 President Ronald W. Reagan The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Washington, D.C. 20500 Dear Mr. President, My Dad was Alfred Antenucci. As you know, he tackled John Hinckley on March 30, 1981. The next day when he was in Georgetown University Hospital, he was visited by a cabinet member and a staff member of the White House. He was promised at that time that his medical bills and family expenses would be paid. As of this date, my parents have paid $28,000.00 in medical expenses. These bills are a direct result of the assassination attempt. My Dad never asked for anything. Be thought that if what he did was appreciated, someone would make sure that he got some- thing. When he saw the others involved that day get bonuses, he wondered why he never received anything. Re never wanted anything if it did not cose from the heart and in good faith. Be was promised an invitation to the White House to have his picture taken with you and our family, which included my Dad, my Mom, mydbrother and his family, and my daughter and myself. That was the only thing he ever wanted in recognition of his heroism. Be was promised many other things that are too numerous to mention. However, when promises are made, they should be fulfilled. When you take someone at their word, you expect these promises to be kept. He often wondered why they were not. My Dad died on May 9, 1984. He died of an irregular heart- beat. Be never had an irregular heartbeat or any other heart problems before March 30, 1981. The shooting upset him so much that he could hardly bear it. He suffered BQ much in the last three years. He was & proud American - proud President and his country, and this pride he passed down to his children. I have been a federal employee in the U.S. District Court in Cleveland, Ohio, for the past ten years. We are very proud of my Dad and the part he played in history. I know that if he had to do it again, he would do the same thing in a minute because it was the right thing to do. He reacted in a split second, and because of it, no one was killed. He was never publicly acknowledged for this, and he never knew why. My Dad may have changed the course of history by preventing the assassination of the President of the United States elected in a zero year. This, however, is for history to judge. I do not want my father's name to be lost in the shuf- fle of history, and I sincerely hope that you do something to prevent this. Mr. President, my Dad was very pleased and honored to have met you in Chicago in September, 1981, and to have been invited to the White House by one of your aides for lunch in April, 1982. We do realize you are a busy man and that you have world bur- dens to consider. However, you seemed SO concerned when he was in the hospital, but since his death we have not heard anything. We can't help but wonder why. Our lives have never been the same since March 30, 1981, and now our lives will never be the same without my Dad. I truly hope you yourself see this letter, and I thank you for taking the time to read it. Very truly yours, Maria antenucce Bennett Maria Antenucci Bennett 10844 Brunswick Road Garfield Heights, Ohio 44125 (216) 581-0556 RR called Father while Ln Hosh. May 2,'E1 visited by Sec. Fay Donovan 0 R. Domate aty #9 -2632 Peter Rosteven - 6500 - currently revenuring action pading info XX May 14, 1984 Mrs. Jo Ann Antenucci 5387 East 111th Street Garfield Heights, Ohio 44125 Nancy and I send our condolences on Mr. Antenucci's death. May Our Lord console you with His peace and warm memories of your life together. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. With our deep sympathy, RONALD REAGAN Anne Higgins 456-7610 RR: AVH KCS :pps bcc: Jane Davis, Degis. Affs. JOHN GLENN 232726 COMMITTEES: OHIO FOREIGN RELATIONS GOVERNMENTAL AFFAIRS SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON AGING United States Senate WASHINGTON, D.C. 20510 July 13, 1984 The Honorable M. B. Oglesby The White House Congressional Liaison 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue Washington, D. C. 20500 Dear Mr. Oglesby: I have been contacted by one of my constituents, Marie Antenucci Bennett, regarding her late fathers role in subduing John Hinckley when he attacked the President in 1981. Mrs. Bennett feels very strongly that certain promises were made to her father during his hospital stay (he suffered an irregular heart beat and high blood pressure after helping subdue Hinckley) and that these promises were never kept. All of this was explained in a letter from Mrs. Bennett to the President dated June 14, 1984. Mrs. Bennett has since called the White House on several occasions regarding her letter because she feels very emotional about her father and the lack of com- passion she and her family are receiving from the President. I would appreciate it if this matter could be thoroughly reviewed and a written report sent to my office as soon as feasible. Thank you for your prompt attention this matter. Sincerely John Glenn United States Senator JG/ds 55 June 14, 1984 ID# ID#236968 236968 President Ronald W. Reagan The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Washington, D.C. 20500 Dear Hr. President, My Dad was Alfred Antenucci. As you know, he tackled John Hinckley on March 30, 1981. The next day when he was in Georgetown University Hospital, he was visited by a cabinet member and a staff member of the White House. He was promised at that time that his medical bills and family expenses would be paid. As of this date, my parents have paid $28,000.00 in medical expenses. These bills are a direct result of the assassination attempt. My Dad never asked for anything. Be thought that if what he did was appreciated, someone would make sure that he got some- thing. When he saw the others involved that day get bonuses, he wondered why he never received anything. He never wanted anything if it did not cose from the heart and in good faith. He was promised an invitation to the White House to have his picture taken with you and our family, which included my Dad, my Nom, my brother and his family, and my daughter and myself. That was the only thing he ever wanted in recognition of his heroism. Be was promised many other things that are too numerous to mention. Bowever, when promises are made, they should be fulfilled. When you take someone at their word, you expect these promises to be kept. Be often wondered why they were not. My Dad died on May 9, 1984. He died of an irregular heart- beat. Be never had an irregular heartbeat or any other heart problems before March 30, 1981. The hooting upset him so much that he could hardly bear it. He suffered SQ much in the last three years. He was & proud American - proud organis President and his country, and this pride he passed down to his children. I have been a federal employee in the U.S. District Court in Cleveland, Ohio, for the past ten years. We are very proud of my Dad and the part he played in history. I know that if he had to do it again, he would do the same thing in a minute because it was the right thing to do. He reacted in a split second, and because of it, no one was killed. He was never publicly acknowledged for this, and he never knew why. Hy Dad may have changed the course of history by preventing the assassination of the President of the United States elected in a zero year. This, however, is for history to judge. I do not want my father's name to be lost in the shuf- fle of history, and I sincerely hope that you do something to prevent this. Mr. President, my Dad was very pleased and honored to have met you in Chicago in September, 1981, and to have been invited to the White House by one of your aides for lunch in April, 1982. We do realize you are a busy man and that you have world bur- dens to consider. However, you seemed SQ concerned when he was in the hospital, but since his death we have not heard anything. We can't help but wonder why. Our lives have never been the same since March 30, 1981, and now our lives will never be the same without my Dad. I truly hope you yourself ase this letter, and I thank you for taking the time to read it. Very truly yours, Maria anterucce Bernett Maria Antenucci Bennett 10844 Brunswick Road Garfield Heights, Ohio 44125 (216) 581-0556 RR called Father while in Hssp. May 2,'81 visited by Sec. Pay Donoran 0 R. Bratak atty #9 - 2632 Peter Rostoven - 6500 - curently reviewing the file, witsion panding formcoring info THE WHITE HOUSE WASHINGTON \ 2-21 TO: Dich House 3/3/20 FROM: MARK WEINBERG my White House's 'regrets' stun kin of shooting hero By MAIRY JAYN WOGE ucci's daughter, and his son, Dominic STAFF WRITER A. Antenucci, promises made by a cabinet member and presidential A White House spokesman said yes- aides to Antenucci were unmet and terday any misunderstandings with recognition for his deed was withheld. the late Albert A. Antenucci, who tackled the president's would-be The promises included a luncheon assassin in 1981, and his family were with Reagan at the White House, pay- regretted. ment of travel bills for the family The family said last night they were while Antenucci was hospitalized in shocked at the White House response Georgetown and payment of Anten- to a Plain Dealer story that detailed ucci's hospital bills. their efforts to get recognition for A copy of the story was delivered to Antenucci for saving the life of Presi- the White House with a request for a dent Reagan. response. Assistant Press Secretary Maria Bennett, Antenucci's daugh- Mark Weinberg issued the following ter, said she and her mother, JoAnn statement: Antenucci, believed the response "The president communicated his "misses the entire point of the PD appreciation to Mr. Antennuci on sev- story." It was published Sunday. eral occasions, including by telephone Antenucci, a carpenter union offi- and by letter. He sympathizes with the cial, punched and jumped on John W. family's loss. Hinckley Jr. when Hinckley began fir- ing at President Reagan in front of a "At the president's direction, mem- Washington hotel March 30, 1981. bers of the White House staff looked into whether it would be possible for Antenucci had heart palpitations federal funds to be used for reim- after the encounter and was taken to bursement of some of the expenses Georgetown University Hospital. (the family) bore during Mr. Anten- He died of the ailment in May 1984. ucci's illness. Unfortunately, federal According to interviews with Anten- funds are not available for that pur- pose, and it was suggested that the WORD PROCESSING Reports, Letters, Direct Moll. 667-1283 Adv't. CONTINUED ON PAGE 14-A Hero's kin FROM PAGE 1-A Antenucci family contact the James Brady Presidential Foundation to see if funds might be available through that organization. "If there are any misunderstand- ings, we naturally regret them." "The president probably did not even read the article," Bennett said. "He is not that insensitive. All we want is recognition for my father."