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Image courtesy of the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA.
Image courtesy of the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA.
Citation for Navy and Marine Corps Medal
Image courtesy of the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA.

Citation for Navy and Marine Corps Medal

Artifact IDMO 63.1941.2.2
Object Type Record, Service
Date 1943
Maker (Secretary of the United States Navy)
Medium Typewritten document on bond paper
DimensionsOverall H 9 in x W 7 in (22.9 cm x 17.8 cm)
Physical DescriptionTypewritten citation for the Navy and Marine Corps Medal awarded to John F. Kennedy, on "The Secretary of the Navy" letterhead with an impression of a flag at upper left, bearing anchor and 4 stars. Text reads: "The President of the United States takes pleasure in presenting the NAVY and 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 of 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 Forrestal/ Secretary of the Navy."
Additional Details
Custodial History NoteThis is the citation for the Navy and Marine Corps medal presented to John F. Kennedy by U.S. Secretary of the Navy, James Forrestal for his service in World War II.
Credit LineJohn F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum, Boston, MA; Gift of the Estate of President John F. Kennedy
National Archives Catalog CollectionJohn F. Kennedy Library Museum Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676934)
National Archives Catalog SeriesJohn F. Kennedy Personal Collection (National Archives Identifier 1676959)
Use Restriction StatusUnrestrictedUse Restriction NoteReproduction or other use of these holdings or images thereof is unrestricted.
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