While the 1963 film PT 109 accurately captures the basic narrative of John F. Kennedy’s wartime ordeal, it takes significant artistic liberties, particularly in portraying the Japanese forces, the severity of Kennedy’s injuries, and the overall strategic impact of the event. Consequently, it presents a romanticized, somewhat sanitized version of the events, downplaying the inherent chaos and uncertainties of war.
The Reality Behind the Reel: Accuracy Under Scrutiny
PT 109, produced during Kennedy’s presidency, served as both a biographical portrait and a wartime action film. This dual purpose inherently influenced its historical accuracy. While the core events – the collision with the Japanese destroyer Amagiri, the crew’s survival on Plum Pudding Island and Olasana Island, and Kennedy’s swim to Naru Island – are represented, the film omits and embellishes certain details for dramatic effect and political expediency.
Overly Heroic Portrayal
One of the most significant inaccuracies lies in the over-the-top heroism attributed to Kennedy. The film portrays him as a nearly infallible leader, confidently guiding his crew through treacherous waters. In reality, while Kennedy displayed courage and leadership, accounts from surviving crew members suggest a more nuanced picture. The decision-making process wasn’t always clear-cut, and moments of doubt and fear were certainly present. The film downplays the role of other crew members, particularly Ensign Leonard Thom, who arguably played a more crucial role in the initial survival efforts than the movie suggests.
Misrepresentation of the Japanese Forces
The film depicts the Japanese as almost cartoonishly incompetent, failing to detect the PT boat and making tactical errors. This is a gross simplification of a highly trained and disciplined fighting force. The Amagiri was returning from a mission when the collision occurred, and the darkness and rain played a significant role in the event. Reducing the Japanese to inept antagonists serves the narrative purpose of glorifying Kennedy’s actions, but it is historically inaccurate and unfair.
Exaggerated Injuries and Dramatic Impact
While Kennedy sustained a back injury during the collision, the film exaggerates its severity. The focus on his pain and endurance adds to the heroic narrative, but it’s not entirely supported by historical accounts. Similarly, the film portrays the sinking of PT 109 as a pivotal moment in the Pacific theater. While it certainly provided Kennedy with invaluable wartime experience and contributed to his public image, its strategic impact on the larger war effort was minimal.
FAQs: Delving Deeper into the PT 109 Incident
Here are some frequently asked questions to provide a more complete understanding of the PT 109 incident and its portrayal in the film:
FAQ 1: What actually caused the collision between PT 109 and the Amagiri?
The collision occurred on the night of August 2, 1943, in the Blackett Strait, Solomon Islands. PT 109 was patrolling with other PT boats. The Amagiri, a Japanese destroyer, was returning from a mission to resupply Japanese troops on Kolombangara Island. The night was dark and rainy, limiting visibility. PT 109‘s engines were idling to conserve fuel, making it difficult to maneuver quickly. The lack of radar on PT boats and the overall chaotic conditions contributed to the collision.
FAQ 2: How many crew members were on board PT 109?
There were 13 crew members on board PT 109 at the time of the collision. This included Lieutenant, junior grade, John F. Kennedy as the commanding officer.
FAQ 3: Did all the crew members survive the sinking of PT 109?
Yes, all 13 crew members survived the initial collision and sinking. However, two crew members were severely injured.
FAQ 4: What injuries did John F. Kennedy sustain?
Kennedy sustained a back injury during the collision, which was aggravated by his subsequent efforts to rescue his crew. While the film portrays a debilitating injury, historical accounts suggest it was a painful but manageable wound that continued to bother him throughout his life.
FAQ 5: How long were the crew stranded after the sinking?
The crew spent approximately three days and two nights stranded on various islands before being rescued.
FAQ 6: What islands did the crew stay on after the sinking?
The crew initially clung to wreckage from the PT 109. They then swam to Plum Pudding Island (now known as Kasolo Island), a small, uninhabited island. After realizing there was no fresh water, they swam to Olasana Island, which had coconuts. Finally, Kennedy and Ensign Ross swam to Naru Island, where they contacted coastwatchers Biuku Gasa and Eroni Kumana.
FAQ 7: What role did Biuku Gasa and Eroni Kumana play in the rescue?
Biuku Gasa and Eroni Kumana, two Solomon Islander coastwatchers, played a crucial role in the rescue. They were working for the Allied forces, observing Japanese movements. Kennedy carved a message on a coconut husk detailing their situation and asking for help. Gasa and Kumana bravely paddled their canoe to Rendova Island, delivering the message to the Allied command, leading to the rescue of the PT 109 crew.
FAQ 8: Was the coconut message preserved?
Yes, the coconut message carved by Kennedy was preserved and is now on display at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum in Boston. It serves as a tangible reminder of the crew’s ordeal and the crucial role played by the Solomon Islander coastwatchers.
FAQ 9: Why did Kennedy swim to Naru Island?
Kennedy swam to Naru Island in an attempt to find help. He knew that the island was located in a channel used by local fishermen and hoped to encounter someone who could assist them. Ensign George H. R. Ross accompanied him on this risky mission.
FAQ 10: What was the immediate aftermath of the PT 109 incident for John F. Kennedy?
After being rescued, Kennedy received a commendation and the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for his heroism. The incident also garnered significant media attention, contributing to his growing public profile.
FAQ 11: How did the PT 109 incident impact Kennedy’s political career?
The PT 109 incident played a significant role in shaping Kennedy’s public image as a brave and decisive leader. It provided him with invaluable wartime experience and contributed to his reputation as a war hero, which undoubtedly helped him in his subsequent political career. However, it’s important to note that he also actively cultivated this image through careful management of his personal narrative.
FAQ 12: Where can I find reliable information about the PT 109 incident?
Several reliable sources offer detailed information about the PT 109 incident, including:
- The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum: They hold primary source materials, including documents, photographs, and artifacts related to the incident.
- Official US Navy historical records: These records provide detailed information about the operations of PT boats during World War II.
- Books and biographies about John F. Kennedy: Many biographies dedicate chapters to the PT 109 incident, often drawing on interviews with surviving crew members.
- Documentaries and historical analyses: These resources often present a more balanced and nuanced perspective on the events. Be wary of sources promoting myths or sensationalized accounts.
Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy, Enhanced by Hollywood
PT 109 should be viewed as a historical drama, not a documentary. While it captures the essence of Kennedy’s wartime experience, it prioritizes entertainment and propaganda over strict factual accuracy. Understanding the historical context and seeking out diverse perspectives is crucial to separating the truth from the Hollywood fiction and appreciating the complex reality of the PT 109 incident and the true bravery displayed by all those involved. The enduring fascination with PT 109 is a testament to Kennedy’s enduring legacy, even if that legacy is partly shaped by a silver screen portrayal.