Robinson was born in Elizabeth, New Jersey, and attended Princeton University from 1935 to 1939, graduating with a degree in English. He received a commission in the United States Naval Reserve in 1941 and served as an officer until 1945. He commanded a 110-foot wooden Navy subchaser - hull number SC 743 - in the Pacific theater during World War II - serving honorably in troop and ship convoys and in the invasions of Arawe, New Britain and Hollandia. LTjg Robinson was awarded the Bronze Star (with gold star denoting a second award) for his command's performance under air attack. He was a sportswriter at the Newark Evening News (1947–1955) and then the Newark Star Ledger (1955–1957) following his return to civilian life. He developed a nationally syndicated boating column while at the Star Ledger.