Lieutenant John F. Kennedy commanded PT109 in the Solomon Islands during World War II. On the night of August 2, 1943 his boat was cut in half by a Japanese destroyer, the Amagiri. Two of his crew were killed but thanks to Kennedy’s efforts 11 survived. Despite a back injury he refused repatriation and later commanded PT59 in further engagements. He ended duty on November 18, 1943.

“Finding PT 109 is especially meaningful to the members of my family, but we also believe it represents the story of all the brave young men who fought with such courage in the South Pacific to insure victory during World War II. I want to commend Dr. Ballard and the National Geographic for their very careful and respectful research.” — Senator Edward M. Kennedy.