New John F. Kennedy G.I. Joe Figure Unveiled by Hasbro Inc., and Kennedy Library Foundation

For Immediate Release: August 30, 2000
Further information: Tom McNaught (617) 514-1662

On Wednesday, August 30, at 12:45 pm in the Pavilion of John F. Kennedy Library and Museum, the Hasbro Toy Company and the John F. Kennedy Library Foundation will unveil the newest GI Joe Action Figure, "John F. Kennedy: PT 109 Boat Commander."

The action figure features the story of John F. Kennedy and PT 109 and is part of a series that includes George Washington, George S. Patton, Dwight D. Eisenhower, and General Colin Powell. The press event coincides with the 57th anniversary of the August 8, 1943 rescue of Kennedy and his crew after their PT boat was sunk by a Japanese destroyer.

A portion of the proceeds from the sale of "John F. Kennedy: PT 109 Boat Commander" will benefit the John F. Kennedy Library and Museum, the nation’s official memorial to President Kennedy.

The Hasbro product launch of "John F. Kennedy: PT 109 Boat Commander" coincides with the Kennedy Library’s newest exhibit, "John F. Kennedy – Man of the Sea," a celebration of President Kennedy’s naval career and lifelong love of the sea and sailing.

Alan G. Hassenfeld, Hasbro Chairman & CEO, will make the official presentation of the new action figure to Charles U. Daly, Executive Director of the Kennedy Library Foundation, and a former member of President Kennedy’s White House staff.

JFK Museum curator Frank Rigg will make available to the press the original coconut on which John F. Kennedy inscribed his rescue message and other original PT 109 artifacts.