How Long Was JFK in the Military?
John F. Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States, is widely regarded as one of the most iconic leaders in American history. Before entering politics, Kennedy served in the United States Navy during World War II, earning the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for his heroism. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of JFK’s military service and answer the question: how long was JFK in the military?
Early Years and Enlistment
Born on May 29, 1917, Kennedy was the second of nine children to Joseph P. Kennedy Sr. and Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy. Growing up in a family with a strong sense of patriotism, Kennedy was influenced by his father’s service in World War I. At the age of 18, Kennedy enlisted in the United States Navy Reserve (USNR) on April 28, 1941, shortly after Germany invaded Poland, marking the beginning of World War II.
Training and Assignment
After completing his initial training at the Naval Reserve Midshipmen’s School in New York, Kennedy was commissioned as an Ensign on May 27, 1943. He was assigned to PT-109, a patrol torpedo boat, which was part of Motor Torpedo Squadron 2 (MTS-2). Kennedy’s command of PT-109 was marked by several notable missions, including a daring rescue of his crew after the boat was struck by a Japanese destroyer.
The PT-109 Incident
On August 1, 1943, while patrolling the Solomon Islands, PT-109 was struck by a Japanese destroyer, Amagiri. Kennedy was thrown overboard and suffered a severe back injury. Despite his injuries, Kennedy helped his crew to safety, including harbor master and future Senator, Ray Mott, who would later become a close friend and ally. The incident would have a lasting impact on Kennedy’s life, earning him the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for his bravery.
Later Military Service
After the PT-109 incident, Kennedy was flown to the United States for medical treatment. He was honorably discharged from the Navy on March 12, 1945, with the rank of Lieutenant. Kennedy’s military service was marked by a series of notable achievements, including:
• Four combat patrols in the Solomon Islands
• Command of PT-109, which was part of MTS-2
• Recipient of the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for his heroism during the PT-109 incident
• Honorably discharged with the rank of Lieutenant
Conclusion
John F. Kennedy’s military service was marked by bravery, leadership, and sacrifice. He served for approximately three years and eight months in the United States Navy, earning numerous awards and decorations for his service. Kennedy’s experiences during World War II had a lasting impact on his life and politics, shaping his perspective on international relations, national security, and leadership.
Timeline of JFK’s Military Service
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| April 28, 1941 | Enlisted in the United States Navy Reserve (USNR) |
| May 27, 1943 | Commissioned as an Ensign |
| August 1, 1943 | PT-109 incident |
| March 12, 1945 | Honorably discharged from the Navy |
Key Takeaways
• JFK enlisted in the USNR on April 28, 1941, at the age of 18.
• He was commissioned as an Ensign on May 27, 1943, and assigned to PT-109.
• The PT-109 incident occurred on August 1, 1943, resulting in Kennedy’s severe back injury.
• JFK was honorably discharged from the Navy on March 12, 1945, with the rank of Lieutenant.
In conclusion, John F. Kennedy’s military service was a defining period in his life, marked by bravery, leadership, and sacrifice. His experiences during World War II shaped his perspective on international relations, national security, and leadership, ultimately influencing his future as the 35th President of the United States.
