PT-109 Patrol Torpedo Boat Commanded By LTJG John F. Kennedy

I attended public school during the 1950s and 1960s.

I remember when John Kennedy was elected President in 1961. During his tenure it was termed “The Age Of Camelot”.

As our youngest President he was adored both by the young and the old. In school we were taught how Kennedy commanded the PT-109 Patrol Torpedo Boat during World War II. The exploits of Kennedy and his crew were legendary.

Their exploits aboard the PT-109 was chronicled in the book “Profiles In Courage”, written by Kennedy, and later adapted to film.

It’s been a long time since I’ve built a ship model kit. It was way back in the late 1960s when I used to purchase them at The Shutter Shop hobby store in Michigan. Time to dust off my model making skills.

The 1:72 Scale PT-109 Patrol Torpedo Boat Commanded By LTJG John F. Kennedy model kit from Revell is graded for ages 13 years old and up, Level 5. Glue and paint are required. See the easy-to-follow instructions as to the model making tools needed to complete the kit.

As always take your time, detach parts off the part trees as needed to avoid losing parts or accidentally gluing them. Paint application is best done before assembling the model kit. Decals should be applied last.

The new PT-109 Patrol Torpedo Boat kit comes packaged in a long rectangular box complete with a full-color naval action scene on the front. Specs and additional photos are on the sides of the box.

Inside five clear plastic, sealed bags hold a total of eleven-part trees (10 gray, one clear) and two parts to the ship's hull and deck.

Parts detach easily from the part trees. I suggest you use an Xacto knife or model snips to remove the parts. Very little flashing is needed to be cleaned up along with the detach points on the pieces.

Parts fit snugly together and are easily assembled by following the instructions and referring to the numbered parts.

It’s best to use specified military naval color paints. Once assembled and painted aging and weathering can be done giving the boat a battle worn look.

I am impressed by the accuracy of the parts right down to the torpedo tubes, deck details, armament and overall look of the boat. Military model kit enthusiasts are sure to love the look and historical accuracy of the kit, especially when displayed.

Relive the turbulent years of the war with the authenticity of the PT-109 Patrol Torpedo Boat Commanded By LTJG John F. Kennedy model kit.

"Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." — 1 Corinthians 15:58