It`s used as a patch? Can this be the reason for the "Patches" Kennedy nickname? How many patches does Patches wear anyway for them to call him "Patches"?
Patches got his nickname from Howie Carr, Radio personality and Boston Herald columnist. It was a takeoff on the song "Patches" by Clarence Carter in reference to him being the latest new hope for the Kennedy family's political fortunes.
One day papa called me to his dyin bed Put his hands on my shoulders And in tears he said Patches, I'm depending on you son To pull the family through My son, it's all left up to you