April 14

Born into Swedish nobility in 1669, De la Gardie pursued a military career and rose to become a general in the Swedish army. He fought in major campaigns of the Great Northern War, commanding troops against Russia and its allies. Beyond his military role, he held high offices at court and influenced royal policy under King Charles XII. De la Gardie also governed territories in the Baltic region, managing both civil administration and defense. He was known for his strategic acumen and patronage of arts and architecture in his estates. He died in 1741, leaving a legacy as one of Sweden’s prominent baronial leaders.

Born in 1769, Barthélemy Catherine Joubert rose rapidly through the ranks of the French Revolutionary armies. As a young general under Napoleon Bonaparte, he secured several victories during the Italian campaigns. Celebrated for his tactical skill and charismatic leadership of the Army of Italy. In 1799, he was appointed commander of the Army of the Alps to defend France against Austrian forces. He fell fatally wounded at the Battle of Novi, cementing his reputation as one of the Revolution's promising commanders.

Augustus Pitt Rivers, born in 1827 into a prominent military family, served as a British Army officer. Inspired by his archaeological discoveries in Egypt, he developed systematic excavation methodologies. He amassed one of the first scientific collections of ethnographic and archaeological artifacts. In 1884, he donated his extensive collection to Oxford University, founding the Pitt Rivers Museum. Pitt Rivers's emphasis on typology and context revolutionized modern archaeology. He died in 1900, leaving a legacy as a pioneer of scientific archaeological practice.

Born in 1931, Geoffrey Dalton embarked on a naval career that spanned more than 40 years. He commanded several frontline vessels and was recognized for his leadership and tactical expertise. Dalton held senior staff roles at the Ministry of Defence, contributing to naval strategy and operations during the tense years of the Cold War. Known for his commitment to excellence, he mentored officers and promoted technological innovation within the fleet. His distinguished service earned him high honors before his retirement and passing in 2020.