April 25

Oliver Cromwell, born in 1599, emerged as a key commander in the Parliamentarian forces during the English Civil War, leading his New Model Army to victory over Royalist troops. After the execution of Charles I, Cromwell became a leading figure in the Commonwealth government and was appointed Lord Protector in 1653. His rule saw major military campaigns in Ireland and Scotland, religious reforms, and attempts to establish a stable republican government. Controversial for his authoritarian style and campaigns in Ireland, he nonetheless modernized the army and promoted meritocracy. He died in 1658, leaving a complex legacy as both a champion of parliamentary authority and a military dictator.

Roger Boyle was born in 1621 into a prominent Irish-English family and became a distinguished soldier and politician. He fought in the English Civil War on the Royalist side before reconciling with Oliver Cromwell’s regime and later supporting the Restoration of Charles II. Appointed Lord President of Munster and created Earl of Orrery in 1660, he also contributed to literature through plays and essays that reflected his classical education. Boyle’s diplomatic skills and military leadership earned him respect, and his works influenced Restoration drama. He died in 1679, leaving behind the title and a legacy in both politics and letters.

Augustus Keppel, 1st Viscount Keppel (1725–1786), was a distinguished English naval officer and politician. He saw action in the War of the Austrian Succession and the Seven Years’ War, where he commanded fleets in the Atlantic. Keppel was later appointed First Lord of the Admiralty, influencing British naval policy. He also sat in the House of Commons as a Member of Parliament, championing naval reform and veterans' welfare. Known for his leadership and technical knowledge, he faced political controversy after the Battle of Ushant. Despite this, he maintained a respected position in both military and political circles until his death.

Nicolas Oudinot (1767–1847) was one of Napoleon Bonaparte's most trusted generals and was elevated to Marshal of France in 1809. He distinguished himself in campaigns across Europe, including Italy, Germany, and Russia, often leading from the front. Renowned for his courage, he was wounded numerous times but remained a key commander throughout the Napoleonic Wars. Oudinot was noted for his organizational skills in artillery deployment and fortification assaults. After the fall of Napoleon, he navigated the turbulent political landscape of the Bourbon Restoration, serving in various military and administrative roles. His enduring legacy is marked by his tactical acumen and unwavering dedication to his troops.

Arapeta Awatere was born in 1910 in Gisborne, New Zealand, of Māori descent. He served with distinction in the Māori Battalion during World War II, earning recognition for his leadership. After the war, he returned home and became involved in politics, aligning with the Labour Party and serving on local councils. A skilled interpreter, he advocated for Māori rights and cultural preservation. Despite his early achievements, his later life was marred by legal troubles, including a conviction for murder in the 1970s. His complex legacy reflects both his contributions to New Zealand society and the darker chapters of his personal history. Awatere's story highlights the challenges faced by many veterans adjusting to post-war life. He died in 1976, remembered as a figure of both heroism and controversy.

Born in 1913 in Greece. Nikolaos Roussen served in the Hellenic Navy and rose to the rank of captain. He commanded naval operations during World War II and earned distinction for his leadership and tactical skill. He was recognized for his contributions to Greece's maritime defense efforts. Roussen died in 1944 while on duty, leaving a legacy of bravery in the Greek Navy.

Born in 1930, Godfrey Milton-Thompson combined a distinguished naval career with medical expertise. He rose through the ranks of the Royal Navy, ultimately attaining the rank of admiral. As a qualified surgeon, he oversaw medical services aboard ships and in naval hospitals. His leadership bridged operational command and healthcare, impacting the wellbeing of service personnel. Milton-Thompson retired with honors and remained a respected figure in both military and medical circles until his death in 2012.

Vladimir Volfovich Zhirinovsky (1946-2022) was a Russian military officer and lawyer who gained fame as the founder and long-time leader of the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia. He served in the Soviet and later Russian armed forces before transitioning to a political career marked by controversial positions and theatrical oratory. Zhirinovsky represented his party in multiple State Duma elections and served as a deputy for over three decades. His outspoken style and nationalist platform made him a prominent, if polarizing, figure in Russian politics. Known for provocative statements on domestic and international affairs, he attracted both fervent supporters and strong critics. Despite numerous legal and diplomatic controversies, he remained a key personality in Russia's post-Soviet landscape.