March 04

Claude de Forbin (1656–1733) was a French naval officer and adventurer noted for his daring exploits under King Louis XIV. He rose to the rank of admiral after distinguishing himself in battles against the Dutch and Barbary pirates. In 1685, Forbin entered the service of King Narai of Siam, commanding Siamese naval forces and forging Franco-Siamese alliances. His memoirs recount voyages in Southeast Asia and dramatic episodes at the Siamese court. Returning to France, he continued his naval career, participating in conflicts during the War of the Spanish Succession. Forbin's blend of military skill and diplomatic acumen made him a unique figure of his era. His life story inspired later writers and remains a vivid example of 17th-century naval adventure.

Born in 1776, Capel began his naval career as a midshipman and quickly rose through the ranks. He commanded the HMS Spartiate at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805, earning praise for his leadership under fire. Throughout his career, he took part in several major engagements of the Napoleonic Wars and was recognized for his bravery and seamanship. After the wars, Capel held senior commands in the Royal Navy and was appointed Companion of the Order of the Bath. He served as Commander-in-Chief on various stations, including the Cape of Good Hope. Capel retired in 1842 with the rank of Admiral of the Blue and was remembered as one of the Navy's most respected officers.

Perry was born in 1794 and joined the U.S. Navy as a teenager, serving in the War of 1812 and the Mexican–American War. In 1853, he led an expedition to Japan with a fleet of steam-powered ships, famously known as the 'Black Ships'. His negotiation of the Convention of Kanagawa in 1854 ended Japan's 220-year policy of seclusion and opened its ports to American vessels. Perry's mission had a profound impact on Japan's modernization and U.S.-Asia relations. He later served as Commander of the Mediterranean Squadron and advocated for naval reform. Perry died in 1858, leaving a legacy as a visionary leader in American naval history.

Born in 1831, Schofield graduated first in his class from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1853. He served with distinction in the Civil War, commanding the Army of the Tennessee and achieving victory at battles such as Franklin and Nashville. After the war, Schofield oversaw military operations during Reconstruction as Commanding General of the United States Army. He was appointed Secretary of War in 1868 and served under Presidents Andrew Johnson and Ulysses S. Grant. Schofield implemented reforms that professionalized the Army and improved its organizational structure. He died in 1906, leaving a lasting impact on the U.S. military establishment.

Born in 1894, Harold Barrowclough graduated from law school before enlisting in World War I, where he served with distinction. In World War II, he commanded the 3rd New Zealand Division in the Pacific, earning the Distinguished Service Order for his leadership. After the war, he resumed his legal career and was appointed Chief Justice of New Zealand in 1958. As Chief Justice, he presided over landmark cases that shaped the judiciary and championed judicial independence. His dual legacy in military service and the law has left a lasting imprint on New Zealand. He died on March 4, 1972.

Born in 1912 in England, Alan Hardaker commissioned as a lieutenant in the British Army during World War II. After his military service, he transitioned to the business sector, where he held executive roles in various companies. Known for his strategic thinking and disciplined leadership, he guided organizations through post-war economic challenges. Hardaker also remained active in veteran affairs, supporting former service members. His dual career bridged the realms of military service and commerce. He passed away in 1980, remembered for his commitment to both his country and the business community.

Born into a Prussian naval family in 1900, Karl-Jesko von Puttkamer joined the Imperial German Navy as a young officer. He rose through the ranks to serve as aide-de-camp to Grand Admiral Erich Raeder and later to Karl Dönitz. During World War II, he held critical staff roles in the Kriegsmarine, contributing to naval operations and strategic planning. Promoted to Vice Admiral, he was recognized for his organizational skills and unwavering loyalty. After Germany's surrender, Puttkamer was interned until 1946 and subsequently lived a private life. He died in 1981, remembered for his long-standing service in two German navies.

Urban received the Medal of Honor for his heroism during the Normandy invasion in 1944. He led troops through five major campaigns and was wounded multiple times. Urban's leadership and bravery inspired soldiers under his command. After the war, he served in the Army reserves and earned a doctorate in international affairs. His life story stands as a testament to courage and dedication in military service.

Born in 1901, Baker-Cresswell joined the Royal Navy and rose through the ranks to captain destroyers. He commanded vessels on convoy escorts and anti-submarine patrols in the Atlantic. His leadership helped protect vital supply lines during the war's critical early years. After retiring from active duty, he remained involved in naval affairs and veterans' organizations. His career exemplified dedication to service and maritime defense.

Ivan Dougherty graduated from the Royal Military College, Duntroon, and began his career as an infantry officer. He saw action with the 6th Division in North Africa and later in the Pacific theatre. His leadership was instrumental in key engagements at Tobruk and Buna–Gona. Post-war, he held senior command appointments and contributed to the development of Australia's defense forces. Known for his rigorous training standards and mentorship, Dougherty influenced a generation of Australian officers. He retired after more than four decades of service, leaving a lasting impact on the military.

Nicola Calipari was a senior officer in Italy's military intelligence agency (SISMI), specializing in Middle Eastern affairs. In March 2005, he led negotiations that secured the release of Italian journalist Giuliana Sgrena from captivity in Baghdad. While escorting her to safety, Calipari was tragically killed by U.S. forces in a friendly-fire incident at a checkpoint. His death prompted international scrutiny of military coordination in conflict zones and sparked national mourning in Italy. Calipari was posthumously honored by the Italian government for his bravery and dedication to protecting civilians.