JFK’s speech-writer dies aged 82

John F. Kennedy’s closest aide and speech-writer, Ted Sorensen, has died aged 82 after suffering a stroke last week.

Sorensen is credited with many of Kennedy’s most memorable lines, including the “Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country” speech given at his inauguration.

He was described by the former President as “my intellectual blood bank” and played what is seen as a crucial role in the Cuban missile crisis.

Sorensen’s own political ambitions were never realised; his liberal leanings and comments on the CIA prevented him becoming head of the spy agency under President Jimmy Carter.

He later became an active player in Barack Obama’s presidential campaign.

He is survived by his wife, Gillian, three sons and a daughter.

Copyright © 2012 euronews