Mr. Montgomery and the President

From January, 1954 to the end of Dwight Eisenhower's presidency in January, 1961, Bob served as Ike's advisor on television and film matters in an official, but non-salaried position.  Including the time spent on active duty in the U.S.N.R. during WWII (for which he volunteered and, due to his age, would not have had to serve), that is over 11 years of public service with only his wartime navy salary as pay.  A rather impressive feat for a man of his time, virtually unheard of in today's world.  (And this does not include his time as an inactive member in the Navy Reserves from 1945 and on into the 1960s.)

As his presidency wound down, a thankful Eisenhower did do a few things for Bob.  From the official appointment log of Ike, a few of those thank you's.

June 12 to June 26, 1960 - Ike and his entourage visit the Philippines, Taiwan and Korea, followed by five days in Honolulu.  Bob went along.  There were no televised speeches.  Ike played a lot of golf in Hawaii.  Bob did not play golf with Ike, but I'm sure he found something to do to occupy his time.

Nov. 7, 1960, 4:25 to 4:39 p.m. - Ike meets with Mr. Robert Montgomery and Mrs. Elizabeth Montgomery Young.

Nov. 30, 1960 - Formal dinner at the White House, attendees included the Honorable and Mrs. Robert Montgomery.

Jan. 16, 1961 - The White House gives a "Stag Dinner" for news reporters, attended by Bob.

Jan. 17, 1961 - Bob assists Ike with his farewell address to the nation given that evening.

Jan. 18, 1961, 5:30 p.m. - The last entry on Eisenhower's appointment log.  Ike gives farewell party for his staff and their secretaries.  There is no list of attendees.  Perhaps I have watched too much Mad Men, but I am guessing everyone had a very good time.