Building on JFK’s Legacy
January 20, 1961 – January 20, 2011
The earth, the sea, and the air are the concern of every nation.
President John Fitzgerald Kennedy’s address to the General Assembly of the United Nations – New York – September 20th 1963
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Because he was one of the most charismatic men in political history, John Fitzgerald Kennedy’s popularity polls during his presidential mandate never fell below fifty percent. To this day, he remains unmatched.
January 20, 2011, marked the 50-year anniversary of his election for President.
For the past several months, Edwin Schlossberg – JFK’s daughter Caroline Kennedy’s husband – spearheaded the anniversary celebration. He conceived the elements of the national celebration and
solicited the support of individuals and corporations to help underwrite the development of the campaign, named JFK 50 years. The website, jfk50.org, was to be launched in January 2011.
In November 2010, the JFK50 Creative Team approached William to propose he speak about his ocean conservation work with sharks. The interview, they said, would be part of a collage of 90-second or so clips of individuals inspired by JFK and whose work was a contribution to the global community in one way or another.
William felt greatly honored. “I have always admired JFK’s ability to motivate and inspire people. He was a great man”. While timing prevented him from flying to New York City to film on location, Winram worked with cameraman Laurent Egli to film the interview in Geneva, Switzerland.
Take the time to browse the jfk50.org website and its many historical documents, photos and videos. Come back to it regulary as you will find a day-to-day diary of JFK’s life as the 35th US President.
Many thanks to fellow freedivers Fred Buyle and Pierre Frolla who generously donated stock underwater footage of William to be used in this interview.