JFK's assassination aided by his bad back, records show

by Sandee LaMotte, CNN

Updated 2328 GMT (0728 HKT) November 30, 2017

John F. Kennedy, our nation's youngest president, had a host of medical conditions that plagued him since childhood. Here, Kennedy entertains Alberto Franco Nogueira, the foreign minister of Portugal, while sitting in the rocking chair his doctor ordered to support his excruciatingly painful lower back. The photo was taken November 7, 1963, just two weeks before he was assassinated.
Photos: JFK: Portrait of pain
John F. Kennedy, our nation's youngest president, had a host of medical conditions that plagued him since childhood. Here, Kennedy entertains Alberto Franco Nogueira, the foreign minister of Portugal, while sitting in the rocking chair his doctor ordered to support his excruciatingly painful lower back. The photo was taken November 7, 1963, just two weeks before he was assassinated.
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Despite being turned down by both the Army and Navy due to his bad back and other medical issues, Kennedy was able to get into the Navy with the help of his father, Joe Kennedy. In June 1944, he received the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for his bravery rescuing his men when his PT boat was struck by a Japanese destroyer. He towed one sailor for miles through the ocean to safety on land, aggravating a former back injury and setting the stage for a lifetime of back pain and surgeries.
Photos: JFK: Portrait of pain
Despite being turned down by both the Army and Navy due to his bad back and other medical issues, Kennedy was able to get into the Navy with the help of his father, Joe Kennedy. In June 1944, he received the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for his bravery rescuing his men when his PT boat was struck by a Japanese destroyer. He towed one sailor for miles through the ocean to safety on land, aggravating a former back injury and setting the stage for a lifetime of back pain and surgeries.
Hide Caption
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