The newest G.I. Joe -- part of the 2000 G.I. Joe line of collectible figures -- commemorates an incident that has come to be known simply as PT 109. Fifty-seven years ago this month, young Navy Lieutenant John F. Kennedy's torpedo boat was sunk by a Japanese destroyer. Against the odds, Kennedy and his crew safely swam to a nearby island, where they were rescued after island natives took a message carved into a coconut by Kennedy to authorities. Kennedy's courage, endurance and leadership earned him the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps Medal.

The meticulously crafted, twelve-inch tall G.I. Joe figure depicts JFK in the fatigues he wore aboard PT 109. It comes with a miniature replica of the famous coconut shard, inscribed, "Nauro Island...Commander...Native Knows Posit...He Can Pilot...11 Alive...Need Small Boat...Kennedy." The figures are expected to be available at major toy outlets in coming weeks at an approximate retail price of $30 to $35.

"We are deeply honored that the Kennedy Library Foundation has given us the opportunity to develop this most special G.I. Joe figure," said Hassenfeld. "It is our sincere hope that this depiction of John F. Kennedy's early heroism and leadership can help bring to light an important piece of history for both adults and children alike."

"President Kennedy believed that one person can make a difference, and that every person should try," said Daly. "This figure celebrates the courage and heroism of a young naval lieutenant who made such a difference. We hope its story will continue to inspire Americans of all ages."

The latest figure in the G.I. Joe Classic Collection adds to a long line of distinguished American leaders and soldiers honored by Hasbro, including George Washington, Dwight D. Eisenhower and General Colin Powell.

The John F. Kennedy Library and Museum is the nation's official memorial to President Kennedy. The John F. Kennedy Library and Museum is a presidential library administered by the National Archives and Records Administration and supported, in part, by the Kennedy Library Foundation, a non-profit organization. The Kennedy Library and the Kennedy Library Foundation seek to promote, through educational and community programs, a greater appreciation and understanding of America's political and cultural heritage, the process of governing and the importance of public service.

Hasbro is a worldwide leader in the design, manufacture, and marketing of toys, games, interactive software, puzzles and infant products. Both internationally and in the U.S., its PLAYSKOOL, KENNER, TONKA, ODDZON, SUPER SOAKER, MILTON BRADLEY, PARKER BROTHERS, TIGER, HASBRO INTERACTIVE, GALOOB and WIZARDS OF THE COAST products provide children and families with the highest quality and most recognizable toys and games in the world. For additional information about Hasbro, visit the company's Web site at www.hasbro.com.

[Posted 8/31/2000]