The Case for Posthumously Awarding Presidential Medal of Honor to John F. Kennedy for World War II Service

The question of whether President John F. Kennedy should be awarded the Medal of Honor posthumously for his exceptional service in World War II is a complex issue involving various factors such as his service record, existing awards, historical context, political and public sentiment, and the legislative process. This article explores these factors to provide a comprehensive view of the merits and challenges of such an award.

Service Record

John F. Kennedy served in the U.S. Navy during World War II primarily as the commander of PT-109, a small motor torpedo boat, in the South Pacific. His actions during his service, especially after the sinking of his boat, demonstrated extraordinary bravery and leadership. Despite being severely injured and facing difficult conditions, Kennedy led his crew to safety, a feat that was recognized as heroic both at the time and in subsequent assessments. This commendable display of valor makes his service record a strong basis for consideration of a posthumous Medal of Honor.

Existing Awards

Kennedy was already awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for his heroism, an honor that is significant in itself. However, the Medal of Honor is typically reserved for acts of valor that exceed the call of duty in a way that may have not been initially recognized. The debate centers around whether Kennedy's actions during the sinking of PT-109 meet this higher standard. Many argue that the Navy and Marine Corps Medal is a merited recognition, but some believe the Medal of Honor should be awarded to elevate his contribution to an even higher level of national honor.

Historical Context

Posthumous awards, especially for the Medal of Honor, are often contentious. The criteria for the Medal of Honor are stringent, and there is a debate about whether awarding Kennedy the honor would set a precedent that might dilute its significance. The Medal of Honor is the highest award for valor in combat and should be reserved for actions that display extraordinary heroism and sacrifice. Therefore, any decision to award Kennedy the Medal of Honor posthumously would have to carefully consider the historical significance and stringent criteria.

Political and Public Sentiment

Kennedy's legacy as a president and a wartime leader is highly regarded, which influences public opinion on this issue. His actions and leadership during World War II are often remembered with admiration. However, awarding the Medal of Honor would likely involve political considerations and discussions about the implications for the military honors system. The public and political discourse would play a crucial role in the eventual decision-making process.

Legislative Process

Awarding the Medal of Honor posthumously typically requires legislative action or a review by the Department of Defense. This process includes thorough investigations into the candidate's service and actions to ensure that the award is appropriately conferred. The Department of Defense has a rigorous process to evaluate such applications, which involves detailed assessments of the circumstances of the service, the actions taken, and the impact of those actions.

While there is commendable service and notable bravery in Kennedy's actions during World War II, the decision to award the Medal of Honor posthumously is a matter of debate. It hinges on the interpretation of his actions, the existing honors he received, and the implications of such an award for the military honors system. The complexity of this issue underscores the importance of thorough consideration and public debate before any decision is made.

In conclusion, John F. Kennedy's service during World War II was commendable, and his actions demonstrated great bravery. The question of whether he should receive the Medal of Honor posthumously is a nuanced one, requiring a balanced evaluation of his service record, existing awards, historical context, political sentiment, and the legislative process. The outcome of this evaluation will be crucial in determining the appropriate recognition of Kennedy's contributions to the war effort.