T-109 was a PT boat (Patrol Torpedo boat) last commanded by Lieutenant junior grade (LTJG) John F. Kennedy (later President of the United States) in the Pacific Theater during World War II. Kennedy's actions to save his surviving crew after the sinking of PT-109 made him a war hero which proved helpful in his political career. The incident may have also contributed to Kennedy's long-term back problems. After he became president the incident became a cultural phenomenon inspiring a song books movies various television series collectible objects scale model replicas and toys. Interest was revived in May 2002 with the discovery of the wreck by Robert Ballard. PT-109 earned two battle stars during World War II operations.