Harry Shepard Knapp facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Harry Shepard Knapp
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| Born | June 27, 1856 New Britain, Connecticut |
| Died | April 6, 1923 (aged 66) Hartford, Connecticut |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ |
 United States Navy |
| Years of service | 1878–1920 |
| Rank | Vice Admiral |
| Commands held | USS Charleston USS Florida Cruiser Force, Atlantic Fleet |
| Battles/wars | Spanish–American War World War I |
| Awards | Navy Cross |
Harry Shepard Knapp (born June 27, 1856 – died April 6, 1923) was an important officer in the United States Navy. He reached the high rank of Vice Admiral. He also served as the military leader of Santo Domingo and represented the United States in Haiti.
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Harry Shepard Knapp was born in New Britain, Connecticut. He joined the United States Naval Academy and finished his studies on June 20, 1878.
After graduating, he served on several ships. These included the Pensacola, the Minnesota, and the Jamestown. He started as a cadet and then became a midshipman. On July 8, 1882, he was officially made an ensign, which is a junior officer rank.
Knapp worked on many ships and at different navy bases. When the Spanish–American War began, he was an executive officer on a gunboat. His excellent service helped him get promoted. On August 3, 1908, he took command of the protected cruiser Charleston (C-22).
Leading Ships and Forces
In 1909, Knapp was promoted to Captain. He joined the General Board on January 8, 1910. Around this time, he also worked on a special board. This board helped plan the defense of the Panama Canal for both the Army and Navy.
He was in charge of the Florida (BB-30) while it was being prepared for service. He then commanded this large battleship when it was first officially put into action on September 15, 1911. On November 8, 1915, he took command of the Cruiser Force in the Atlantic Fleet.
Military Governor During World War I
Knapp was promoted to Rear Admiral on March 17, 1917. Just one week before the United States joined World War I, he received a very important role. He was made the Military Governor of Santo Domingo, which is now known as the Dominican Republic. He also became the United States' military representative in Haiti.
In this role, Rear Admiral Knapp worked hard to protect Allied ships from German U-boats. He also made sure the Caribbean Sea was safe from enemy attacks. For his great service, he received the Navy Cross.
Later Career and Retirement
After World War I ended, he became a Naval Attaché in London. This meant he worked as a navy representative in another country. On February 4, 1920, he took command of all U.S. Naval Forces in European waters. At this time, he was given the rank of Vice Admiral.
Even after Vice Admiral Knapp officially retired on June 27, 1920, the Navy still needed his skills. He was called back for temporary duty as a consultant and a special diplomat. He passed away in Hartford, Connecticut, on April 6, 1923.
Namesake
The Fletcher-class destroyer USS Knapp (DD-653) was named in his honor.
See also
In Spanish: Harry Shepard Knapp para niños
