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The Search for PT 109

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Journey Into History
Photograph by Ira Block

Nearly six decades after the sinking of PT 109, modern technology—and an explorer's zeal—led to its sighting. Robert D. Ballard, at left, led the team that found Kennedy's ship in May 2002. Aboard the research vessel Grayscout, Ballard chats with Max Kennedy, center, and former PT boat skipper Dick Keresey, who joined the expedition. Between them sits the remotely operated vehicle Little Hercules, whose video camera spotted the wreckage 1,200 feet (370 meters) below the surface of Blackett Strait in the Solomon Islands.

Camera: Canon EOS 1N
Film Type: Fujichrome Provia
Lens: 17-35mm
Speed and F-Stop: 1/250 @ f/5.6

Weather Conditions: Overcast
Time of Day: Afternoon
Lighting Techniques: Natural light