John Henry Turpin

War Hero

Birthday August 20, 1876

Birth Sign Leo

Birthplace Washington

DEATH DATE Mar 10, 1962 (85)

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About

Military veteran known for being one of the first African-American Chief Petty Officers to serve in the United States Navy. He is also famous for his miraculous survival of the explosions of the Navy ships USS Maine and USS Bennington.

Before Fame

He was born in Bremerton and enlisted in the Navy in November 1896.

Trivia

He was an excellent boxer who won Navy boxing championships in more than one weight class.

Family Life

He was married to Faye Alice.

Associated With

He and Anton Haus both served in their country's respective Navies during World War I.