February 20

Born in 1552, Hidehisa served under Oda Nobunaga and later Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Commanded forces at the Battle of Komaki and Nagakute, where he suffered a defeat but later regained favor. Appointed lord of Ueda and later Owari provinces. Adapted to changing political landscapes to maintain his domain through the unification of Japan. His career reflects the tumultuous transition from warring states to Tokugawa rule. Died in 1614.

Born in 1726 in Pepperell, Massachusetts. Studied law and served as a militia officer before the Revolution. Appointed colonel of the 7th Massachusetts Regiment in 1775. Led American troops at Bunker Hill, reportedly ordering 'Do not fire until you see the whites of their eyes'. Became a symbol of colonial determination despite the British tactical victory. After the war, returned to legal practice and public service. Died in 1795.

Born in 1744, William Cornwallis embarked on a naval career that saw him rise to the rank of admiral. He served with distinction during the American Revolutionary and French Revolutionary Wars. Known for his strict discipline tempered with humanity towards prisoners. He organized blockades and commanded fleets in key naval engagements. After retiring from active service, he served as a Member of Parliament representing Lostwithiel. His leadership and reforms influenced Royal Navy practices into the 19th century.

Born in 1753, Louis-Alexandre Berthier had a distinguished military career during the French Revolutionary Wars. Appointed Napoleon’s chief of staff in 1796, he organized the Grande Armée and planned campaigns across Europe. He was made a Marshal of the Empire and Prince of Neuchâtel for his service. As Minister of Defence, Berthier managed France’s armies and military administration. He remained loyal to Napoleon through the Hundred Days and was exiled after Waterloo. His organizational skills were key to the efficiency of Napoleonic warfare.

Georges Bernanos was a French soldier and writer whose novels delved into questions of faith, grace, and human struggle. Born in 1888, he served on the front lines during World War I before turning to literature. His works, including 'Diary of a Country Priest' and 'Under the Sun of Satan,' reflect his Catholic convictions and critique of modern society. Bernanos opposed fascist ideologies and spent years in exile during World War II. His prose is marked by lyrical intensity and profound moral inquiry. Bernanos died in 1948, leaving a lasting impact on 20th-century French literature.

Born in 1901 in Khartoum, Naguib pursued a career in the Egyptian Army. He played a central role in the 1952 Revolution that overthrew the monarchy. As Egypt's first President, he balanced military governance with early political reforms. He nationalized foreign assets and initiated land redistribution. Conflicts with fellow revolutionaries led to his resignation in 1954 and subsequent house arrest. Despite his ouster, he is honored as a founding father of modern Egypt.

Born in 1912 in Avignon, Boulle served in the French army during World War II and joined the Free French forces. He undertook clandestine missions behind enemy lines before turning to writing. His novel 'The Bridge over the River Kwai' won the 1957 Pulitzer Prize and inspired an Oscar-winning film. He later wrote 'Planet of the Apes,' which became a groundbreaking science fiction franchise. Boulle’s works explored themes of morality, human nature, and the impact of scientific progress. He remained a prolific author until his death in 1994, leaving a lasting legacy in literature and cinema.

Johnny Checketts was born in Wanganui, New Zealand, in 1912. He joined the Royal Air Force in 1939 and quickly made a name for himself as a skilled fighter pilot. During World War II, he flew Spitfires and Hurricanes and achieved multiple confirmed kills in the Battle of Britain. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Distinguished Service Order for his bravery in combat. After the war, he served as a test pilot and later helped train new recruits. Checketts also led veterans' organizations and published his memoirs recounting wartime experiences. He passed away in 2006, leaving a legacy as one of New Zealand's top air aces.

James O'Meara was born in England in 1919 and joined the Royal Air Force before the outbreak of World War II. He trained as a pilot and was assigned to operational squadrons during the early years of the conflict. O'Meara flew numerous combat missions across Europe, earning respect for his skill and leadership in the air. He received the Distinguished Flying Cross for acts of valour during intense aerial engagements. Following his wartime service, he continued in the RAF as a flight instructor, sharing his experience with new pilots. He retired with the rank of Wing Commander and maintained ties with veteran associations. O'Meara died in 1974, remembered for his dedication and bravery.