JFK in WW2

[jhyden]

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/scie ... chaeology/


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[jhyden]

here is some more info:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motor_Torpedo_Boat_PT-109

https://www.history.com/this-day-in-his ... aving-crew

http://www.orwelltoday.com/jfkpt109.shtml


The Allies had been in a campaign of island hopping since securing Guadalcanal in a bloody battle in early 1943. Kennedy transferred on 23 February 1943, as a replacement officer to Motor Torpedo Boat Squadron 2, which was based at Tulagi Island, immediately north of Guadalcanal in the Solomon Islands. Traveling to the Pacific on Rochambeau, Kennedy witnessed a fierce air strike against his ship that killed the captain, and found Kennedy helping to hand shells to a supply a large gun on board, giving him his first taste of battle. He arrived at Tulagi on 14 April and took command of PT-109 on 23 April. Considerable repairs were required on the boat, and Kennedy pitched in to help the crew get his ship seaworthy. On 30 May, several PT boats, including PT-109, were ordered to the Russell Islands in preparation for the invasion of New Georgia.

[Greybriar]

Thanks for the heads-up and additional information, jhyden.

[m10bob]

My uncle Jim was on Guadalcanal when they brought Kennedy in to the hospital. Word got around pretty fast and JFK was considered a celebrity due to his coming from a very wealthy family.
Even then, he was respected because folks have a flawed belief that being rich automatically gives you a "pass" from military service.

In war, especially one like WW2, patriotism and the feelings of owing a debt to your nation for freedom are felt at all ends of the political and financial spectrum.