Skip to main content
Polaris A-2 Commemorative Plaque
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA
Polaris A-2 Commemorative Plaque
John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA

Polaris A-2 Commemorative Plaque

Artifact IDMO 63.199
Object Type Plaque
Date 1963-11-16
Date Presented11/16/1963
Medium metal; copper; wood
DimensionsOverall H 13 in x W 10 in (33 cm x 25.4 cm )

Physical DescriptionCopper wall plaque commemorating Polaris A-2 firing Plaque depics relief of submarine and missile in the center. Plaque reads, "U.S.S. Observation Island / Polaris." Copper is mounted on a wood backing is in the shape of a shield.
Historical NotePresident Kennedy was aboard the USS Observation Island to witness the firing of the Polaris A-2 missile from the USS Andrew Jackson on November 16, 1963. This plaque was presented to President John F. Kennedy when Kennedy boarded the U.S.S. Observation Island.
Additional Details
Custodial History NoteItem was received by President Kennedy in 1963 and transferred to the General Service Administration where it was held until it was donated to the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum by the Estate of President John F. Kennedy in 1965.
Credit LineJohn F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA; Gift of the Estate of President John F. Kennedy
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedUse Restriction NoteThis material is not subject to any known copyright or other image use restrictions.
Not on view