John Kennedy actually said...

"I do hereby urge the people of the United States to honor our Merchant Marine on Monday, May 22, 1961, by displaying the flag of the United States at their homes or other suitable places"

"I also designate the period beginning September 17 and ending September 23, 1961, as Constitution Week;"

"Now, Therefore, I, John F. Kennedy,President of the United States of America, call upon the appropriate officials of the Government to display the flag of the United States on all Government buildings..."

"I also request that all ships sailing under the American flag dress ship on the twenty-second day of May in tribute to the American Merchant Marine"