Biuku Gasa and Eroni Kumana

During World War II, Gasa and Kumana were tasked with patrolling the waters of the Solomon Sea near Gizo by Australian coastwatcher Sub-Lieutenant Reg Evans, who manned a secret observation post at the top of Kolombangara island's Mount Veve volcano, and had five two-man teams of islanders working for him.

In the absence of writing utensils, Gasa suggested that Kennedy should inscribe a message on the husk of a coconut he had taken from a nearby palm tree: "NAURO ISL...

[3] This message, after rowing their dugout canoe at great risk through 35 nmi (65 km) of hostile waters patrolled by the Japanese, was then delivered to the nearest Allied base at Rendova.

Gasa and Kumana's involvement in rescuing Kennedy continue to be remembered by their descendants in the Western Province of the Solomon Islands.

He expressed sadness and anger over the unjust lack of recognition or award given to Solomon Islanders for their services during the war.

However, in recognition of his help, Gasa lived in a house paid for by the Kennedy family ($5,000), National Geographic ($5,000) and the balance ($15,000) by Brian and Sue Mitchell.

Melody Miller, Senator Edward Kennedy's Press Secretary, was responsible for pulling all the parties together after being approached by the Mitchells.

The National Geographic had gone there as part of an expedition by Robert Ballard, the discoverer of the wreck of the Titanic, who did find the remains of the PT-109.

[9] Ambassador Caroline Kennedy met John Koloni, the son of Kumana, and Nelma Ane, daughter of Gasa at a ceremony in August 2023 in Honiara to mark the 80th anniversary of the battle of Guadalcanal.

Gasa died on 23 November 2005, the 42nd anniversary of Kennedy's assassination (for countries west of the International Date Line).