The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy and Marine Corps Medal to Lieutenant John Fitzgerald Kennedy, United States Navy, for extremely heroic conduct as Commanding Officer of Motor Torpedo Boat ONE HUNDRED NINE (PT-109), following the collision and sinking of that vessel in the Pacific War Area, on 1 – 2 August 1943. Unmindful of personal danger, Lieutenant 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.