I believe you are correct on that (Kennedy being perceived as weak at the time). I think we found out later that it was by the grace of God that the missle crisis didn’t come to fruition. Kennedy did step up to the plate though.. thank goodness. I doubt this Jarret-run WH would side with the US during any future missle threats though.
My dad was stationed in GTMO during the ‘62 missle crisis. We kids (and mom) were evacuated 10-22-62 in preparation for war. (were able to return in Dec). I was in the 8th grade... but remember it well.