April 28

Hu Jinsi was a prominent military leader during the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period in China. He rose through the ranks to become a prefect, overseeing strategic regions and maintaining order. Known for his tactical acumen, he led campaigns to defend his state against rival forces. His administrative skills earned him respect among both civil and military officials. Despite the era's turbulence, he managed to retain his position until his death in 948. His career exemplifies the power and influence of regional military governors in medieval China.

Jawhar as-Siqilli was a prominent Fatimid commander and regent, serving the Caliphate during its foundational years. Born in Sicily, he rose through the ranks to become a trusted general of Caliph al-Mu'izz li-Din Allah. In 969, he led the Fatimid army into Egypt, capturing Fustat and founding Cairo. As the first governor of the newly founded city, he oversaw its early administrative and architectural development. Jawhar's leadership cemented Fatimid control over Egypt and laid the groundwork for the dynasty's golden age. His strategic vision and statesmanship had a lasting impact on the region's political landscape.

Conrad of Montferrat was a 12th-century nobleman who rose to prominence during the Third Crusade. Originally lord of Montferrat in Italy, he traveled to the Holy Land and distinguished himself in the defense of Tyre against Saladin. His strategic acumen earned him the support of Crusader barons, leading to his election as King of Jerusalem in 1192. Despite his short reign, he negotiated treaties securing important coastal cities. His sudden assassination in 1192 remains shrouded in mystery and intrigue. Conrad's legacy is that of a capable commander and shrewd statesman whose actions influenced the Crusader states.

Magnus Julius De la Gardie (1668–1741) held prominent roles as a military commander and statesman in early 18th-century Sweden. He fought in the Great Northern War under King Charles XII, achieving distinction in several battles. After his military career, De la Gardie entered politics, serving in high offices under King Frederick I. A member of the powerful De la Gardie family, he influenced domestic policy and foreign affairs. He managed administrative reforms and helped navigate Sweden through post-war challenges. His dual legacy as a soldier and political leader highlights the era's blend of martial and courtly power.

Mikhail Illarionovich Kutuzov (1745–1813) was one of Russia's greatest military commanders. Serving under Catherine the Great and Paul I, he rose to prominence after victories against the Ottoman Empire. In 1812, as commander-in-chief, he adopted scorched earth tactics and a strategic withdrawal to weaken Napoleon's Grande Armée. The decisive Battle of Borodino and the subsequent French retreat marked the turning point of the campaign. Kutuzov's cautious yet effective strategy earned him national hero status. He was canonized by the Russian Orthodox Church for his leadership and patriotism. His military acumen remains studied in academies worldwide.

Born in 1835 at Lee Hall in Virginia, Fitzhugh Lee was a cavalry officer renowned for his leadership during the American Civil War. A nephew of General Robert E. Lee, he commanded brigades in key battles such as Gettysburg and the Wilderness. After the war, Lee served in the U.S. Army during the Spanish-American War, reaching the rank of major general. Transitioning to politics, he was elected Governor of Virginia in 1885, focusing on economic development and veterans' affairs. His administration worked to modernize the state's infrastructure and reconcile former Union and Confederate sympathizers. Fitzhugh Lee also represented his state as a U.S. diplomat in Mexico before his death in 1905.

Born in Ireland in 1894, Maurice Moore joined the Irish Republican Army during the Irish War of Independence. He participated in guerrilla operations against British forces, demonstrating fierce dedication to the cause of Irish self-determination. In 1921, he was captured and executed at the age of 27, becoming one of the many volunteers who gave their lives for Ireland's freedom. His sacrifice resonated among nationalists and inspired continued efforts towards independence. Moore is remembered as a steadfast and courageous figure in Ireland's struggle for sovereignty.

Born in 1906 in Ansbach, Hermann Fegelein joined the SS and rose through the ranks to become an SS-Gruppenführer. He commanded cavalry formations and served as liaison between the SS and the Wehrmacht, notably on the Eastern Front. Fegelein was also Adolf Hitler's brother-in-law through marriage to Eva Braun's sister, a connection that brought him into Hitler's inner circle. In the final days of World War II, he was accused of desertion and executed on Hitler's orders in April 1945. His career exemplifies the complex intersections of loyalty and power within the Nazi hierarchy.

Heinrich Bär was one of the most successful fighter pilots in history. Serving in the Luftwaffe, he claimed 220 confirmed aerial victories on the Eastern and Western Fronts. Bär flew over 1,000 combat missions in various aircraft, including the Focke-Wulf Fw 190. He received the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross with Oak Leaves and Swords for his achievements. After the war, he published memoirs and contributed to aviation journals detailing air combat tactics. His tactical innovation and leadership earned him respect among pilots and historians alike. Bär's record remains a benchmark for fighter aces and students of military aviation.

Alexander Lebed was a prominent Russian general who rose through the ranks of the Soviet Army. He played a key role in resolving regional conflicts in Transnistria and Chechnya. After retiring from the military, he entered politics and became a presidential candidate in 1996. Known for his decisive leadership and negotiating the Khasavyurt Accord, he helped end the First Chechen War. Elected governor of Khakassia in 1997, he implemented anti-corruption reforms and economic initiatives. Lebed remained a powerful and polarizing figure until his death in a helicopter crash in 2002.

Michael J. Ingelido (1916–2015) was a lieutenant general in the United States Air Force. He flew reconnaissance missions in World War II and commanded NATO air forces during the Cold War. Ingelido received multiple decorations, including the Silver Star and Air Force Distinguished Service Medal. After retiring, he served in aerospace consulting and wrote about military aviation history. His leadership helped shape modern aerial reconnaissance tactics and strategy.