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Naval History and Heritage Command

Naval History and Heritage Command

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Lt. John F. Kennedy's NMCM citation


Image relating to Lt. John F. Kennedy's NMCM citation

THE SECRETARY OF THE NAVY
WASHINGTON

The President of the United States takes pleasure in
presenting the NAVY & MARINE CORPS MEDAL to

LIEUTENANT JOHN FITZGERALD KENNEDY
UNITED STATES NAVAL RESERVE

 

 

 

 

for service as set forth in the following

CITATION:
"For extremely heroic conduct as Commanding Officer of Motor Torpedo Boat 109 following the collision and sinking of that vessel in the Pacific War Area on August 1-2, 1943. Unmindful of personal danger, Lieutenant (then Lieutenant, Junior Grade) Kennedy unhesitatingly braved the difficulties and hazards of darkness to direct rescue operations, swimming many hours to secure aid and food after he had succeeded in getting his crew ashore. His outstanding courage, endurance and leadership contributed to the saving of several lives and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service."

For the President,
James Forrestals Signature
    Secretary of the Navy

 

 

16 August 1997

 

Published: Mon Nov 24 11:46:36 EST 2014