Comparing Opinions on John F. Kennedy’s PT Boat Command
John F. Kennedy's PT boat incident during World War II is a subject of frequent debate. While many believe it was a case of bad seamanship, others argue that it was understandable under the circumstances. The following analysis explores the opinions of other PT boat commanders and provides insights into this controversial event.
Context and Background
The incident involving PT 105, on which JFK served, occurred on the night of August 1, 1943. Kennedy's boat was hit by an Imperial Japanese Navy (IJN) destroyer, leading to a significant loss of life among his crew. This event took place in the Solomon Islands, during a period of intense naval activity.
Opinions from Other PT Boat Commanders
While Kennedy is not present to directly share his thoughts on the opinions of his contemporaries, serving commanders and veterans can offer valuable perspectives. For instance, the following viewpoints offer a range of opinions on the incident:
The Severity of the Incident
Commanders often emphasize the challenging conditions during the engagement. John E. Newman, a friend of JFK and a captain of PT 109 (another PT boat that famously survived a Torpedo attack), reflected on the incident. Newman suggested that if Kennedy had been a common sailor, he would have faced severe consequences. Given that Kennedy was part of a well-known and influential family, his actions were more leniently judged.
Commander Dick Kersesey
Dick Kersesey, captain of PT 105, provided insights in his book, PT 105: The Continuing Story of President Kennedy's PT 105. Kersesey was critical of some actions but gave no criticism to the commanding officers of his unit, including Jack Kennedy. By recounting the many challenges and mistakes of the time, Kersesey suggested that the incident was more about contextual understanding than outright poor seamanship.
Opinions of the First UDT
According to Andrew, a GMCM Master Chief Gunner's Mate who served on another PT in the same squadron as Kennedy, if the latter had not been the son of Joseph Kennedy, he would have been court-martialed. Andrew explained that the incident was a result of poor timing and a wrong place at the wrong time. While the event was unfortunate, it was seen as a consequence of the dynamics of naval battles rather than a fundamental error in command.
Analysis and Reflection
The analysis of these viewpoints reveals that the opinions on Kennedy's command of PT 105 vary. Many argue that poor seamanship is a misjudgment, often influenced by historical context and personal circumstances. However, others see the incident as a reflection of the broader challenges and uncertainties of naval warfare during the war. One key aspect is the recognition of the unique pressures faced by commanders during such high-stakes engagements.
While Kennedy’s actions cost his vessel, his efforts to save his crew are often remembered as heroic. The character of Kennedy in these situations is a testament to his leadership and his willingness to take responsibility for those under his command. Despite his inexperience, he demonstrated a clear heart and a strong sense of duty, which earned him the title of a hero.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the opinions of other PT boat commanders regarding the incident involving PT 105 reflect a nuanced understanding of the challenges of naval warfare. The incident is often viewed as a combination of poor tactical awareness and the pressures of the moment. While it is easy to judge from the perspective of hindsight, it is important to consider the various challenges and circumstances that commanders faced during intense naval engagements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Was John Kennedy’s leadership style praised or criticized?
A: Many commanders praised Kennedy's efforts to save his crew, seeing it as a demonstration of leadership and responsibility. However, there were also criticisms focused on his tactical decisions. His failings were often considered in the context of the challenging environment and responsibilities faced by commanders during the war.
Q: How were John Kennedy’s actions compared to other PT skippers?
A: Some commanders noted that John Kennedy's mistakes were common among young skippers at the time. The overall view was that these were typical errors of an inexperienced commander, which were reflected in the broader challenges faced by all the PT boat skippers.
Q: Does the incident reflect well on the US Navy?
A: The incident is often seen as a stain on the Navy's honor due to the ship's loss. However, it also highlights the resilience and bravery of the crew and Kennedy's efforts to prevent further loss of life, which are often celebrated.