BULOVA Christmas present clock 1969 "Merry Christmas 1969 Eunice and Sargent Shriver" with the words "General and Madame de Gaulle". Accutron Rectangular case with a glass front, bearing two plates with a dedication "Merry Christmas 1969 Eunice and Sargent Shriver" with the words "General and Madame de Gaulle". Bulova Accutron electronic movement. H. 13.5 cm l. 13 cm P. 14 cm Provenance : - Charles de Gaulle (1890-1970) - Then Admiral Philippe de Gaulle (1921-2024) - Then descendants Commentary: This clock donated by John Fitzgerald Kennedy's sister, Eunice Kennedy, who became Mrs Sargent Shriver, is a very interesting historical souvenir that testifies to the strength of the Franco-American friendship. Her husband, Sargent Shriver, an American politician and diplomat who was present at JFK's side at the start of his term of office, was appointed US ambassador to France in 1968, the year in which his wife founded the first Special Olympics. The Franco-American relationship President John Fitzgerald Kennedy's trip to France from 31 May to 2 June 1961, accompanied by his wife Jacqueline Kennedy (nicknamed Jackie), was one of the most emblematic moments in diplomatic relations between the United States and France under the presidency of General de Gaulle. The trip is often remembered for the charm and elegance of Jacqueline Kennedy, who captivated the French public and received a warm welcome from General de Gaulle. John Fitzgerald Kennedy even went so far as to say in his speech that he was "the man who accompanied Jacqueline Kennedy to Paris". Eunice Kennedy Shriver Eunice Kennedy Shriver was an influential and inspirational figure in the famous Kennedy family, renowned for her social commitment and humanitarian contributions. She is best known for founding the Special Olympics in 1968, a worldwide movement to provide sporting opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. This commitment grew out of her affection for her sister Rosemary Kennedy, who suffered from developmental disabilities and was the victim of an unsuccessful lobotomy, inspiring her to do all she could to improve the lives of people with special needs. Eunice Kennedy Shriver has left a profound legacy that goes far beyond the Kennedy family. Her work has changed the perception of people with intellectual disabilities, integrating them more fully into society and paving the way for similar initiatives around the world. Awards and recognition In 1984, Eunice Kennedy Shriver was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian distinction in the United States, in recognition of her work on behalf of all disabled people. Eunice Kennedy Shriver remains an exemplary figure for her vision and determination to promote inclusion, dignity and opportunity for all, particularly for those who were often neglected by society. She was also the only woman to appear on a US coin during her lifetime (the Special Olympics Silver Dollar in 1995). Bulova: the watch brand of American Presidents The Bulova watch brand, founded in New York in 1875 by Joseph Bulova, has forged close ties with several American presidents. Here's how the brand has become part of American presidential history, as well as that of the entire American administration around the world, as shown by this clock bearing the initials of the President of the United States. The links between Bulova and American presidents testify to the brand's recognition as a symbol of watchmaking excellence and technical innovation in the United States. Whether through diplomatic gifts, personal choices or contributions to major technological advances such as the space race, Bulova has maintained a close relationship with the White House, reinforcing its status as an iconic American brand.