Born on June 1, 1926, in Baltimore, Maryland, Morris Semiatin died Dec. 28 in his son, Ben’s, home in Ocean City, Maryland, peacefully in his sleep. He served with the 5th Marines Division (PFC) Iwa Jima WWII and received the Purple Heart, which he wore proudly every day. He witnessed the flag raising on Mount Suribachi. He was a commercial photographer in Washington, D.C. and photographed every president from JFK through Ronald Reagan, kings and queens, world leaders, movie/TV/sports stars from 1959 to 1985. He was a member of the White House News Photographers. He shared a glass of wine with Winston Churchill.
Morris was preceded in death by his loving wife of 34 years, Anne, and his long-time companion, Melina Ernest. He is survived by his sons, Steve, Alec and Ben, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Semper Fi & America’s Fund or Patriot Angels.
