18K views · 544 reactions | August 2, 1943 gave new meaning to surviving "by the skin of one's teeth." After their boat was torn apart by a Japanese destroyer, Skipper John F. Kennedy towed his wounded crewmate to safety with a tether in his mouth. | American Experience | PBS | Facebook

#OTD in 1943, LTJG John F. Kennedy's PT 109 was rammed by Japanese destroyer Amagiri. JFK was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for his courage in leading the 10 crewmen who survived the collision to safety. The incident was depicted in the 1963 film "PT 109" starrring Cliff Robertson as JFK. #MovieMonday | U.S. Naval Institute

5.2K views · 105 reactions | After his company's boat was torn apart by a Japanese destroyer in the early morning hours of August 2, 1943, young Lieutenant John F. Kennedy towed pulled his wounded crewmate in the water, swimming for three and half miles before reaching safety on a deserted island. It would take several days and additional grueling swims through dangerous waters before Kennedy and his crewmates were rescued. | American Experience | PBS | Facebook