John Robinson was born in Cuba in1840. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy in Maine.

His actions, while serving as Captain of the Hold aboard the U.S.S. Yucca in Pensacola Bay, Florida resulted in his being awarded the Medal of Honor

Robinson’s Medal of Honor citation read: "The President of the United States of America, in the name of Congress, takes pleasure in presenting the Medal of Honor to Captain of the Hold John Robinson, United States Navy, for gallant and heroic conduct while serving on the U.S.S. Yucca, together with Acting Ensign James H. Bunting, during the heavy gale which occurred in Pensacola Bay on the night of 19 January, 1867, Captain of the Hold Robinson swam ashore with a line for the purpose of sending off a blowcock, which would facilitate getting up steam and preventing the vessel from stranding, thus voluntarily periling his life to save the vessel and lives of others."

Robinson’s Medal of Honor was awarded to him on February 23, 1867. It is not known when or where he died.

References:
Congressional Medal of Honor Society
Hall of Valor Project