Kennedy Commands the PT-109

Lt. John F. Kennedy is in command of a patrol torpedo boat, PT-109, which collides with the Japanese destroyer Amagiri and sinks in the Pacific Ocean. Under Kennedy’s leadership, most of the crew is eventually rescued. As a result of his actions, he is awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal and a Purple Heart.

 

Image 1: PT-109 tie clip. Jesse Moyers Collection/The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

Image 2: Photo of Kennedy and Barney Ross from scrapbook. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza Collection/Estate of George H.R. “Barney” Ross

Image 3: PT-109 comic book. Indra Family Collection/The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza