They Were Expendable

These three words conjure up a popular image in the minds of the ‘baby boomer’ post-war generation.

PT boats had a short history. For the most part, they played minor roles in the operations of World War 2. Yet they wax famous, their reputation far exceeding their actual accomplishments.

In those early years of the War, symbols and propaganda were the tools used to buoy the spirit of the American people. The PT boat became one of those symbols. Even in retreat, their actions were heroic.

General Douglas MacArthur, his staff, and family were evacuated from Corregidor to Mindanao by PT Boat Squadron 3. Lieutenant John Bulkeley, commander of Squadron 3, won the Congressional Medal of Honor. He was one of the most decorated naval officers of World War II.

In later years, the exploits of President John F. Kennedy entered the American psyche. PT boats became legend for the generation of the Sixties.

Kennedy’s boat was rammed and split in half by a Japanese destroyer while on patrol.

The actions of PT 109 were immortalized because Lieutenant Kennedy put the lives of his crew first. He suffered a debilitating back injury as a result of placing the lives of his crew before his own personal injury.

To this day, we are inspired by the PT boat. Our museum brings the history of the PT boat alive. PT boats tell us a story through the experiences of the sailors and soldiers who served.

President Kennedy, General MacArthur, and Vice Admiral Bulkeley are among many who have left us with accounts of their heroic service aboard the storied patrol torpedo boats of WW2.

Join us on the Kingston waterfront or at one of our ports-of-call for a ride through time on a PT boat, and a journey through the personal history of those who served.