John F. Kennedy: War Hero and Leader
A Future President's Early Years in the Navy
John Fitzgerald Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States, was born on May 29, 1917, in Brookline, Massachusetts. He served as President from January 20, 1961, until his assassination on November 22, 1963. Before his presidency, Kennedy served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, where he became a war hero for his actions following the sinking of his PT-109 boat. President John F. Kennedy is widely regarded as one of America's greatest leaders, noted for his decisive action during the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, which brought the world to the brink of nuclear war. However, his heroism as a naval officer during World War II also played a significant role in shaping his legacy. Kennedy’s bravery in the war earned him a Navy and Marine Corps Medal and a Purple Heart, making him the only U.S. president to have received these honors. When asked how he became a war hero, Kennedy famously replied, “It was involuntary. They sank my boat.”
From Harvard to the Navy
A Harvard graduate, John F. Kennedy joined the U.S. Navy despite having a bad back, with some help from his family's connections. Initially serving in intelligence, he later attended Officer Training School and was given command of a Patrol Torpedo (PT) boat. This role fulfilled his desire to command a powerful vessel equipped with torpedoes and machine guns.
The PT-109 Command
In 1943, Lieutenant Junior Grade Kennedy took command of PT-109 in the Solomon Islands. His mission included nightly attacks on Japanese supply barges and patrolling for enemy ships. The fateful mission began on the night of August 1, 1943, near Papua New Guinea. At 26 years old, Kennedy was tasked with torpedoing Japanese destroyers on supply runs to soldiers fighting Allied forces.
The conditions were challenging. “It was as dark as if you were in a closet with the door shut,” recalled crewman Barney Ross. Only one PT boat in the squad had radar, which left PT-109 and two others to navigate blindly. Kennedy decided to use just one of PT-109’s three engines to avoid creating a wake that could be spotted by enemy patrols. On his first patrol, a Japanese fighter had dropped bombs close to PT-109, injuring two crewmen.
At 2:30 a.m., a crewman spotted a ship approaching. Initially mistaken for another PT boat, it was actually the Japanese destroyer Amagiri, which quickly rammed PT-109, splitting it in two. Two of the 13-man crew were killed instantly. Kennedy was thrown hard against the deck, badly injuring his back. The collision ignited PT-109’s reserve fuel, burning engineer McMahon, who was below decks.
Survival at Sea
Kennedy and his surviving crew clung to the wreckage. Displaying remarkable leadership, he swam out to each of the 11 survivors, guiding them back to the remains of PT-109. The next morning, with no sign of rescue, Kennedy gathered the men and asked, "If the Japanese come after us, do you want to fight or do you want to surrender?" The crew left the decision to Kennedy, who reasserted his command.
Kennedy decided to abandon the sinking wreckage and led his men by swimming three miles to a small island, holding the tow rope in his teeth to pull a wounded sailor. After several days on the island with no food or water, Kennedy led another swim to a larger island, where they found coconuts for sustenance.
Legacy of a Hero
Kennedy’s actions during this ordeal demonstrated his courage and dedication to his crew. Reflecting on his service, he famously remarked, "It was involuntary. They sank my boat." His wartime experience profoundly influenced his leadership as President, embodying the spirit of service and sacrifice.
Kennedy’s military honors were highlighted by his political supporters, but the harrowing mission that distinguished him also showcased his ability to lead under extreme conditions. His experiences in World War II shaped his character and leadership, leaving an indelible mark on his legacy.
