April 24

Count Axel von Fersen the Elder was born on July 7, 1719, into a prominent Swedish noble family. He advanced through military ranks to become Field Marshal in 1765. Fersen also held significant political positions, serving as Lord Marshal of the Swedish Riksdag of the Estates. He was instrumental in Swedish foreign policy and military reforms during the late 18th century. Fersen navigated the complex politics of the Age of Liberty and the Gustavian era. He died on April 24, 1794, leaving a legacy as a key figure in Sweden's military and political history.

Helmuth Karl Bernhard Graf von Moltke was born on October 26, 1800, in Mecklenburg-Strelitz, Germany. He served as Chief of the Prussian General Staff from 1857 to 1888. Moltke modernized the Prussian army and pioneered the use of railways and telegraphs in warfare. Under his leadership, Prussia achieved decisive victories in the Austro-Prussian War (1866) and Franco-Prussian War (1870–71). He earned a reputation for meticulous planning and strategic innovation, coining the phrase 'No plan survives contact with the enemy.' Moltke died on April 24, 1891, and is remembered as one of the foremost military strategists of his age.

Anastasios Papoulas was born on January 25, 1857, in Nafpaktos, Greece. He graduated from the Hellenic Military Academy and rose through the officer ranks. Papoulas commanded Greek forces in the Balkan Wars of 1912–1913 with distinction. During World War I, he served as commander-in-chief of the Greek Army on the Macedonian front. He navigated complex political pressures and military challenges in a turbulent era. Papoulas died on April 24, 1935, remembered for his leadership and service to Greece.

Born in Tel Aviv in 1924, Weizman served in the British Royal Air Force during World War II before becoming one of the founders of the Israeli Air Force. He led the air force from 1958 to 1966 and later served as Minister of Defense in 1977, playing a central role in negotiating the 1979 peace treaty with Egypt. Elected President of Israel in 1993, Weizman held office until 2000 and was known for his outspoken style and efforts to improve relations with Arab states. He cultivated personal relationships with leaders across the Middle East and championed reconciliation and dialogue. After his presidency, he remained active in public life, supporting initiatives for regional cooperation. Weizman's leadership left a lasting impact on Israel's military history and its diplomatic breakthroughs with Egypt.

Born in 1995, Wang Xiaolong served his country as a coast guardsman in the Chinese maritime forces, dedicating himself to the protection of national waters. He was stationed in strategically important and often contested regions, where he patrolled territorial seas and enforced maritime laws. His commitment to duty exemplified the courage and discipline of coast guard personnel. Though details of his final mission remain scarce, his service has been recognized by both colleagues and communities. Wang’s legacy highlights the risks and responsibilities faced by those safeguarding the seas. His dedication continues to inspire current and future members of maritime security forces.