Was John F. Kennedy in the Military?
One of the most pressing questions surrounding John F. Kennedy’s life is whether or not he served in the military. As the 35th President of the United States, Kennedy is often criticized for his military service, or lack thereof. In this article, we will delve into Kennedy’s military background and examine the facts surrounding his military service.
John F. Kennedy’s Early Military Service
Kennedy enlisted in the United States Navy in 1941, at the age of 18, and became one of the youngest sailors to ever serve in the US Navy. He reported for duty at the Newport Naval Academy in Rhode Island, where he was appointed midshipman on April 29, 1942. Kennedy’s early days in the Navy were marked by his dedication and bravery, as he consistently received high grades and demonstrated exceptional leadership skills.
PT-109 Incident
In August 1943, Kennedy’s life was forever changed when he was assigned to Command Patrol Torpedo (PT) Boat 109 (PT-109) in the Pacific Theater. Kennedy’s boat was involved in a collision with a Japanese destroyer, the Amagiri, and Kennedy was left with 10 survivors, with 71 others lost in the wreckage. Kennedy saved the lives of all but two of his crew by leading them through a treacherous sea in a makeshift raft, with no food, water, or shelter.
War Heroism
The heroic actions of Kennedy and his crew during the PT-109 incident earned him the Navy and Marine Corps Medal, the Navy’s highest award for heroism. The Medal was presented to Kennedy in 1943, recognizing his bravery and leadership in the face of certain death.
Other Military Assignments
After his heroism in the Pacific, Kennedy returned to the United States and briefly served as the director of the Navy’s Maritime Commission, a position that allowed him to work behind the scenes, out of the public eye, to promote the development of the US Navy. Later, he became a Lieutenant in the Naval Reserve, a position he maintained until the beginning of his presidential campaign in 1960.
Criticisms of JFK’s Military Service
Despite his heroic actions and extensive military background, Kerry Kennedy, JFK’s daughter, has spoken about the ongoing controversy surrounding her father’s military service. Some have criticized Kennedy’s service for being insufficiently decorated, citing that he received fewer awards than other soldiers with less impressive records. Furthermore, some have questioned his willingness to take risks, pointing to his decision not to take part in many of the naval battles.
Conclusion
In conclusion, John F. Kennedy did serve in the United States Navy, albeit for a relatively short period. His heroism during the PT-109 incident and brave leadership of his crew have been widely recognized. Despite ongoing criticism of his military service, Kennedy’s contributions to the war effort are undeniable.
Table: JFK’s Military Awards
| Award | Year | Rank/Position |
|---|---|---|
| Navy and Marine Corps Medal | 1943 | Lieutenant, Junior Grade |
| Presidential Unit Citation | 1943 | PT-109 Crew |
Key Takeaways:
• John F. Kennedy enlisted in the United States Navy in 1941 at the age of 18.
• Kennedy was assigned to PT-109, where he bravely led his crew after a collision with a Japanese destroyer.
• Kennedy earned the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for his heroism during the PT-109 incident.
• Despite some criticisms, Kennedy’s contributions to the war effort and military service are undeniable.
