(1943) PT boat is sunk and a young lieutenant helps save matesLt. j.g. John F. Kennedy leaps into the Pacific Ocean after a nighttime attack by a Japanese destroyer has sunk his command, the PT-109 patrol torpedo boat. The future US president swims through burning wreckage and manages to help save all but two of his crew, leading survivors to an island to await rescue.PT-109 was a PT boat last commanded by Lieutenant, junior grade John F. Kennedy in the Pacific Theater during World War II. Kennedy’s actions to save his surviving crew after the sinking of PT-109 made him a war hero, which proved helpful in his political career. The incident may have also contributed to his long-term back problems.
Keel laid: Mar 04, 1942 Launched: Jun 20, 1942 Map of the events of 2 August 1943
(1943) PT boat is sunk and a young lieutenant helps save mates
