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The Search for PT 109

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Heartfelt Thanks
Photograph by Ira Block

Max Kennedy, son of JFK's brother Robert Kennedy, embraces Biuku Gasa, one of two Solomon Island scouts who helped save the surviving PT 109 crewmen. Kennedy and his crewmate, George Ross, had spotted Gasa and Eroni Kumana while exploring Naru Island near Olasana. Kennedy carved a message on a coconut, which Gasa and Kumana took by canoe in search of help. Word of the survivors eventually reached coastwatcher Evans, who arranged for the rescue of Kennedy and his crew.

Camera: Canon EOS 1N
Film Type: Fujichrome Provia
Lens: 28-70mm
Speed and F-Stop: 1/125 @ f/4

Weather Conditions: Open shade
Time of Day: Afternoon
Lighting Techniques: Fill flash