March 22

Braxton Bragg was a career U.S. Army officer who joined the Confederate States Army during the American Civil War. He commanded forces in the Western Theater and achieved a significant victory at the Battle of Chickamauga in 1863. Despite this success, Bragg's tenure was marred by strategic disagreements and strained relations with fellow officers, leading to his eventual removal from command. Prior to the war, he served in the Mexican–American War and contributed to U.S. coastal defenses. Bragg's leadership remains controversial, with debates over his tactical decisions and his legacy as a military commander. After the war, he retired from public life, leaving a complex historical record.

James Timberlake served as a lieutenant in the American military before working as a police officer, where he contributed to local law enforcement efforts. After his service, he settled as a farmer, playing a vital role in his rural community's agricultural development. Timberlake's diverse career reflected a commitment to civic duty across military, policing, and farming sectors. His life exemplified the 19th-century American spirit of versatility and community service. Though less widely known, his dedication to multiple professions distinguished his legacy in local history.

Emilio Aguinaldo played a central role in the Philippine Revolution against Spain, leading forces to victories in Cavite province. He declared Philippine independence on June 12, 1898, and established the First Philippine Republic. During the Philippine–American War, Aguinaldo resisted U.S. annexation before his capture in 1901. After his release, he remained active in politics, serving under American colonial administration and later the Philippine Commonwealth. Known as the architect of Philippine independence, his military and political leadership shaped the nation's early history. Aguinaldo's life spanned colonial, revolutionary, and republican eras, leaving a complex but enduring legacy.

Born in central Hunan in 1896, He Long joined the Communist movement in its early years. He commanded Red Army forces in key campaigns during the Chinese Civil War and the Long March. After 1949, he became one of the Ten Marshals of the People's Liberation Army. He Long held the position of Vice Premier, contributing to national reconstruction. Despite surviving political purges, he retained influence in military and government affairs. His leadership helped shape modern China's military establishment until his death in 1969.

James M. Gavin (1907-1990) earned the nickname 'Jumping General' by parachuting into combat with his troops during World War II. As commander of the 82nd Airborne Division, he played a pivotal role in the Normandy invasion and Operation Market Garden. Gavin advocated for modernization of the U.S. Army and integration of African American soldiers. In the 1960s, President Kennedy appointed him United States Ambassador to France, strengthening Franco-American relations. After retiring, he wrote extensively on military strategy and appeared on television news programs. Gavin's blend of frontline leadership and diplomatic skill marked him as one of America's most dynamic generals.