Coliseum's Olympic Torch to Be Lit in Honor of John F. Kennedy

The Olympic torch at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum will be lit just after midnight tonight to mark the 50th anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, who spoke at the venue when he accepted his party's presidential nomination at the 1960 Democratic National Convention.

Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas on Nov. 22, 1963.

The Coliseum torch will remain lit for 24 hours.

"Earlier in the week, I got a call from Congresswoman Janice Hahn from our nation's capital suggesting that the torch be lit," City Councilman Tom LaBonge said. "I quickly called USC President C.L. Max Nikias and I am now joined with council member Curren Price and the entire City Council in thanking USC for this tribute. John F. Kennedy forever lives in our minds every day."

The torch will be lit at 12:01 a.m.