America remembers JFK Jnr

The salute was the most enduring memory of JFK Jnr

A year ago, after the wreckage from a plane crash washed up on the shores of a beach, Americans mourned the loss of another young member of one its most prominent and chronicled families.

We continue to struggle with our grief and we choose to maintain what is left of our privacy

Bessette family

The first anniversary on Sunday of the deaths of John F Kennedy Junior, his wife Carolyn Bessette and her sister Lauren - killed when Kennedy lost control of his plane - will pass quietly.

No public tribute is planned to mark an event that shocked a nation, with friends and family members saying they want to mourn in private.

But America's fascination with a family struck by tragedy has not waned, and at least five books have gone on sale, released for the anniversary.

Fame survives

Golden couple: John F Kennedy Jnr and his wife Carolyn

The young face of JFK Junior, who lived much of his life in the public eye, is splashed on the front covers of several magazines and tabloids this week.

Two more books are being planned.

One of the most lasting memories of JFK Junior dates back to 37 years ago, when, as a three-year-old child, he saluted the coffin of his assassinated father.

Christopher Anderson, whose book The Day John Died is being released this week, said the fascination stems from a powerful collective memory of his father's death.

"The salute says it all," Mr Anderson said. "The most heartbreaking moment in modern political times was the moment he gave that salute."

Private mourning

The Bessette family said in a statement they would not be holding a service.

Floral tributes were laid by the Kennedy's New York home after his death

"We continue to struggle with our grief and we choose to maintain what is left of our privacy," the statement said.

The Kennedys also said they would remember the day privately.

"Not a day goes by that we don't think of [them]," US Senator Edward Kennedy, an uncle of JFK Junior, said in a statement.

"We will never forget the joy and love and laughter and inspiration they brought to us.

"Those beautiful memories provide special comfort to us now on this heartbreaking anniversary," he said.