John Martin Poyer
US Navy officer and Governor of American Samoa / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
John Martin Poyer (1861 – May 12, 1922) was the Naval Governor of American Samoa, from March 1, 1915, to June 10, 1919. He held the longest term of any American governor appointed over the territory by the United States Government. A Naval Academy graduate, Poyer served in numerous positions and retired in 1906 on account of failing health; however, the navy recalled him to service in 1915 to serve as governor. During the 1918 flu pandemic, Poyer quarantined the territory to stop the spread of the pandemic to American Samoa. Because of his actions, no deaths occurred in American Samoa, and he received the Navy Cross. Upon his final retirement, Poyer had reached the rank of commander.
Quick Facts Governor of American Samoa, Preceded by ...
John Martin Poyer | |
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Governor of American Samoa | |
In office March 1, 1915 – June 10, 1919 | |
Preceded by | Charles Armijo Woodruff |
Succeeded by | Warren Jay Terhune |
Personal details | |
Born | 1861 Indiana, U.S. |
Died | May 12, 1922(1922-05-12) (aged 60–61) Washington, D.C. |
Resting place | Arlington National Cemetery |
Spouse | Emma Porter |
Alma mater | United States Naval Academy |
Occupation | Naval officer |
Military service | |
Allegiance | United States |
Branch/service | United States Navy |
Years of service | 1879–1906, 1915–1919 |
Rank | Commander |
Awards | Navy Cross |
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