Watch The Search for Kennedy's PT 109

The Search for Kennedy's PT 109 is a thrilling documentary series produced by National Geographic in 2002. The show is a tribute to the legacy of America's 35th president, John F. Kennedy, and his heroic action during World War II as the commander of a patrol torpedo (PT) boat in the Pacific theater.

The series follows the journey of a team of archaeologists and historians who set out to locate the wreckage of Kennedy's PT 109, which was lost in action after colliding with a Japanese destroyer on August 2, 1943. The researchers traveled to the Solomon Islands in the South Pacific, where they conducted an elaborate underwater search using state-of-the-art technology and historical data.

The first episode of the series takes us back in time to the fateful night of the collision. Through archival footage, expert analysis, and on-location reenactments, we witness the terror of the crew as they desperately sought to survive in the open sea, clinging to life rafts and wreckage. The episode also sheds light on Kennedy's remarkable leadership skills, as he rallied his injured and exhausted men, swam through shark-infested waters to a nearby island, and ultimately secured their rescue.

The subsequent episodes chronicle the team's expedition to the Solomon Islands, which proved to be an arduous and perilous journey. The researchers faced numerous obstacles, from inclement weather to poisonous sea snakes and unexploded ordnance from the war. However, their determination and expertise eventually paid off, as they discovered several artifacts and remnants that provided crucial evidence for the search.

The team employed a range of cutting-edge technologies to locate the PT 109 wreckage, including sonar imaging, remote-operated vehicles, and magnetometers. They also collaborated with local experts and residents, who shared their knowledge of the region's geography and history. Throughout the series, the researchers provide fascinating insights into the complexities of underwater exploration and the challenges of historical research, as they piece together the narrative of Kennedy's wartime experience.

The Search for Kennedy's PT 109 is not just a gripping adventure tale, but also a poignant tribute to the sacrifices and heroism of America's servicemen and women. Through interviews with surviving crew members and their families, as well as insights from military historians and scholars, the series illuminates the broader context of the Pacific theater in World War II and the role of PT boats in the conflict. Ultimately, the documentary captures both the essence of John F. Kennedy's legacy and the spirit of human resilience in the face of adversity.