William Harvey Thompson

William Harvey Thompson (1860-1927) was an American Secret Service agent, best known for his role as the personal bodyguard of President Theodore Roosevelt. Thompson's dedication to his duty and his fearless approach to protecting the President earned him the nickname "The Man in the Shadow."

Early Life

Thompson was born in 1860 in New York City. Little is known about his early life and education, but it is known that he joined the Secret Service in the late 19th century.

Career

Thompson's career in the Secret Service was marked by his dedication to duty. He was assigned to protect President Theodore Roosevelt in 1901, following the assassination of President William McKinley. Thompson was known for his vigilance and his willingness to put himself in harm's way to protect the President. He was often seen by Roosevelt's side, earning him the nickname "The Man in the Shadow."

Thompson's protective measures included screening the President's mail for threats, personally tasting the President's food to ensure it was not poisoned, and even sleeping in the hallway outside the President's bedroom. His dedication to his duty was such that he once jumped in front of the President to shield him from a potential attacker.

Later Life and Death

After leaving the Secret Service, Thompson lived a quiet life. He passed away in 1927. His contributions to the safety of the President and his dedication to his duty have left a lasting legacy in the Secret Service.

Legacy

Thompson's dedication to his duty and his fearless approach to protecting the President have left a lasting legacy in the Secret Service. His methods of protection, including screening the President's mail and personally tasting the President's food, are still used today.

See Also

• Secret Service
• Theodore Roosevelt
• William McKinley