Did JFK Save a Man's Life?

Did JFK Save a Man's Life?

From American History Hotline by iHeartPodcasts

May 20, 2026 · 41 min

About this episode

The episode explores a heroic act by John F. Kennedy during WWII and features historian Alexis Coe discussing his life and bravery.

You can't spell "hero" without JFK. Ok, so you can. But that doesn't take away from the fact that a young John F. Kennedy saved a man's life in WWII — a war he wasn't even supposed to be in! Bob calls up Alexis Coe, New York Times bestselling presidential historian and author of Young Jack: A Biography of John F. Kennedy, 1917–1957 , to uncover the thrilling true story of JFK towing an injured crew mate through shark infested waters (by his teeth!) to safety.  Alexis also helps us understand why JFK fought so hard to serve in WWII, despite serious health problems and a free pass out of the conflict. It's this bravery and selflessness that made JFK a dreamboat to the ladies and ultimately our 35th president.  GUEST: Alexis Coe, author of Young Jack: A Biography of John F. Kennedy, 1917–1957 (to be released in 2026) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

People in this episode

Host: Bob

Guest: Alexis Coe

Topics covered

  • John F. Kennedy
  • World War II
  • heroism
  • biography
  • military service

Keywords

  • JFK
  • hero
  • WWII
  • biography
  • military service
  • Alexis Coe
  • New York Times

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: New York Times

Books & works: Young Jack: A Biography of John F. Kennedy, 1917–1957

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