The Potential for Upgrading John F. Kennedy's Award: From Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Medal of Honor
Has John F. Kennedy's long-standing Navy and Marine Corps Medal been overlooked for the more prestigious Medal of Honor? This article delves into the historical context, examining the possible route for an upgrade and the challenges faced.
Historical Context and Awards
John Fitzgerald Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States, received the Navy and Marine Corps Medal, rather than the Navy Cross, for his actions aboard the USS PT-109 during World War II. The Navy and Marine Corps Medal is awarded for heroism or exemplary achievement or meritorious service at risk of life, in a non-combat situation.
The Awards Given to JFK
While JFK did receive the Navy and Marine Corps Medal, it is worth noting that this recognition did not diminish his bravery or the impact of his actions. After the collision with a Japanese destroyer, JFK demonstrated extraordinary courage and leadership in saving the lives of his crew members by towing one injured man to safety.
The PT-109 Incident
PT-109 was a Patrol Torpedo (PT) boat that Kennedy commanded during the Solomon Islands campaign in 1943. Unfortunately, the boat was rammed by a Japanese destroyer, causing it to split in half and sink. Kennedy's actions in the aftermath, particularly in saving a severely burnt crew member, are what earned him the Navy and Marine Corps Medal.
The Board of Inquiry and Kennedy's Violations
The Board of Inquiry that investigated the loss of PT-109 identified violations by Kennedy that contributed to the situation. He was found guilty of two violations of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). First, he allowed two crew members to sleep at their positions, which is a violation of SOP that mandates constant vigilance. Second, he did not keep the boat "in gear," leaving it in neutral, which left the crew vulnerable to the incoming destroyer.
However, it is important to note that the recommendations of the Board did not include disciplinary actions, acknowledging Kennedy's reasons for his decisions. These decisions were made to ensure the safety of his exhausted crew.
Legitimacy and Recognition
Although these violations may have impacted Kennedy's chances of receiving a more prestigious award, such as the Navy Cross, it does not diminish the bravery and heroism involved in his actions. The Navy Cross is traditionally awarded for heroism in combat situations, which begs the question: Is it possible for Congress to upgrade Kennedy's award, particularly after 80 years?
Medal of Honor and the Process
The Medal of Honor is the highest award for valor in action against an enemy of the United States. For an award to be upgraded to the Medal of Honor, there must be evidence that supports the exceptional nature of the heroism demonstrated. In Kennedy's case, while the PT-109 incident occurred in 1943, the review panel would need to consider the 1943 Board of Inquiry report and any new evidence or testimony that could validate the actions taken.
Should a Navy Decorations Review Board consider Kennedy's actions for the Medal of Honor in 2019, the 1943 report would be a crucial document. Additionally, the 76-year span between the original award and the potential upgrade would be reviewed to assess whether new evidence has come to light that might support an upgrade.
Conclusion
While the possibility of upgrading John F. Kennedy's award from the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to the Medal of Honor exists, it remains unlikely due to the historical and procedural factors surrounding his original award. However, the legacy of Kennedy's heroism and leadership during the PT-109 incident continues to be honored and appreciated, regardless of the specific accolades given.