April 17

Manuel Komnenos was a prominent Byzantine commander active in the mid-11th century. Belonging to the influential Komnenos family, he served the empire in campaigns against Norman and Turkish forces. His military career coincided with the reign of Emperor Constantine X and the events leading up to the Battle of Manzikert. Manuel's leadership in the field exemplified the Komnenids' martial prowess that would later elevate his descendants to the imperial throne. His death in 1071 marked the end of a notable career in a turbulent era for the Byzantine Empire. While overshadowed by his successors, Manuel's contributions laid groundwork for the Komnenian restoration.

Dimitrios Psarros was a Greek lieutenant colonel and founder of the National and Social Liberation movement (EKKA). Born in Arachova, he fought in the Balkan Wars and World War I before joining the resistance against Axis occupation. In 1941, he co-founded EKKA to oppose the occupation while promoting social justice ideals. Psarros emphasized cooperation among resistance groups and sought to limit partisan violence. After the liberation of Greece, he opposed extremist factions, was arrested, and executed in 1944. He is honored as a hero of the Greek Resistance and a symbol of moderate republican values.

Kantarō Suzuki was born in 1868 and graduated from the Imperial Japanese Naval Academy. He rose through the ranks to become an admiral and served various naval commands before entering politics. Appointed Prime Minister in April 1945, Suzuki faced the monumental task of bringing World War II to an end. He played a key role in the decision to accept the Potsdam Declaration and oversee Japan’s surrender in August 1945. Following the war, he remained an influential figure in postwar reconstruction. He passed away in 1948, remembered for his leadership during Japan’s most critical period.

Chaim Herzog was born in 1918 in Belfast and later became a key figure in Israel's early history. He served in the British Army during World War II before joining the Israeli Defense Forces and reaching the rank of major general. Herzog studied law at the London School of Economics and practiced as an attorney in Israel. He was appointed Israel's Ambassador to the United Nations and later served as President from 1983 to 1993. Known for his diplomatic skill and outspoken speeches, he strengthened Israel's international standing. He authored several books on Middle Eastern politics and passed away in 1997.

Stanley R. Resor served in World War II before earning his law degree and entering public service. Appointed as Secretary of the Army under Presidents Kennedy and Johnson, he oversaw personnel policies amid the Vietnam War. Resor championed modernization of the Army and improved soldiers' welfare programs. A Yale alumnus and corporate counsel for a major company, he bridged military, legal, and political spheres. He died in 2012, remembered for his leadership during a pivotal era in U.S. military history.

Robert P. Griffin was born in Detroit in 1923 and served as an Army infantryman during World War II, earning a Bronze Star for his service in Europe. After the war, he completed his law degree and entered politics with election to the Michigan State Senate. In 1966, he was appointed to the U.S. Senate, where he served until 1979 and worked on housing, civil rights, and veterans' benefits. Known for his bipartisan approach, he collaborated across the aisle to advance urban renewal programs and educational initiatives. He also played a role in overseeing Supreme Court nominations during a turbulent political era. After leaving the Senate, Griffin returned to legal practice and remained active in civic affairs. He passed away on April 17, 2015, remembered for his dedication to public service and lasting impact on Michigan's political landscape.

Jeremiah J. Rodell was ordained as a Catholic priest before joining the U.S. Air Force Chaplain Corps in 1955. Over his distinguished career, he served at bases across the United States and overseas, offering spiritual care and moral support to troops. In 1978, he was promoted to brigadier general, becoming one of the highest-ranking chaplains in the Air Force. Rodell oversaw chaplaincy programs, trained new chaplains, and advised commanders on religious and ethical matters. He emphasized the importance of pastoral care for maintaining morale and welfare among service members. Known for his compassionate leadership, he mentored countless chaplains and fostered interfaith collaboration within the military. After retiring in 1982, he continued pastoral work until his death on April 17, 2015. His legacy endures in the Air Force chaplaincy and the lives he touched.