Sunday, January 23, 1944
Mr. Ross
JFK was in Palm Beach and wrote a letter to Mr. Ross, father of his PT 109 mate Barney Ross. JFK later included this letter in As We Remember Him.
Dear Mr. Ross,
I had the pleasure of serving with your son George in the Solomons for the last seven months – and as I saw him at Tulagi slightly more than a month ago – I just wanted to write and let you know that he is well – looks fine – and is as usual in good spirits.
I am enclosing some pictures that were taken just before I left that he asked me to send to you to be kept for him.
Barney has done a good job out there – and everyone – particularly the enlisted men – are devoted to him. He rode on my boat during a particularly difficult time – and I have been thankful that he was with us ever since. He saved one man’s life – and contributed to a great degree to the rescue of the entire group. For his actions, through that week he was recommended for the Silver Star – and he richly deserves [sic]
If there is any further information I can give you please let me know.
Sincerely,
Jack Kennedy
[153, p. 356]