Robert Semple (veteran)

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Robert Semple
August 18, 1887(1887-08-18) – May 13, 1943 (aged 55)
Robert Semple (veteran), Medal of Honor recipient
Place of birth	Pittsburgh
Place of death	San Diego, California
Allegiance	United States of America
Service/branch	United States Navy
Rank	Lieutenant Commander
Unit	USS Florida (BB-30)
Battles/wars	U.S. occupation of Veracruz, 1914 World War I
Awards	Medal of Honor Navy Cross

Robert Semple (18 August 1887 – 13 May 1943) was born in Pittsburgh and became famous as the Chief Gunner in the United States Navy stationed aboard the USS Florida (BB-30).

Semple achieved the rank of Lieutenant Commander. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for his service during the Vera Cruz campaign. He also received the Navy Cross for his service in the North Sea minefields during World War I.

Semple is buried at Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery, San Diego, California.

[edit] Medal of Honor citation

Rank and organization: Chief Gunner, U.S. Navy. Born: 18 August 1887, Pittsburgh, Pa. Accredited to: Pennsylvania. G.O. No.: 120, 10 January 1924. Other Navy award: Navy Cross.

Citation:

For meritorious service under fire on the occasion of the landing of the American naval forces at Vera Cruz on 21 April 1914. C.G. Semple was then attached to the U.S.S. Florida as a chief turret captain.