May 13

Born in 1521 as Takeda Harunobu, he later took the name Shingen.\nHe implemented legal reforms and boosted agricultural productivity in Kai Province.\nShingen led successful campaigns against rival clans, notably at Kawanakajima against Uesugi Kenshin.\nHis cavalry tactics and strategic governance earned him a formidable reputation.\nHe managed his domain with a merit-based administration and network of castles.\nShingen died in 1573, leaving a legacy as a master strategist of samurai warfare.

Kojirō founded the Ganryū school of swordsmanship, emphasizing the nodachi (long sword).\nHe developed the famed 'Turning Swallow Cut', a swift overhead strike.\nHis skill attracted disciples and patronage across western Japan.\nIn 1612, he dueled Miyamoto Musashi on Ganryūjima island.\nMusashi defeated Kojirō using a wooden sword carved from an oar.\nKojirō's life and death have inspired countless works of art and drama.

Eliphalet Dyer was born in Connecticut in 1721 and studied law before entering public service. He served as a colonel in the French and Indian War, leading Connecticut militia troops. After the war, Dyer became a prominent lawyer and was appointed a judge of the Supreme Court of Connecticut. He represented Connecticut as a delegate to the Continental Congress during the American Revolution. Dyer played a key role in shaping early American legal and political institutions and influenced Connecticut politics until his death in 1807.

Born in 1898, Arthur J. Burks served as a colonel in the United States Army during World War I. After retiring from the military, he embarked on a prolific writing career in the pulp magazine industry. He authored hundreds of short stories spanning fantasy, horror, and adventure genres. His work appeared in prominent publications such as Weird Tales and Argosy. Burks blended his military experiences with imaginative storytelling, creating vivid and suspenseful narratives. He passed away in 1974, leaving behind a legacy as one of pulp fiction’s most industrious writers.

J. F. Coleman (1918–2014) served as a dedicated soldier and pilot in the United States armed forces. Throughout his military career, he flew numerous missions, demonstrating courage and skill in the cockpit. Coleman was recognized for his leadership abilities and commitment to his fellow service members. He trained at premier aviation programs, contributing to advances in flight tactics and safety. After retiring from active duty, he remained involved in veterans' organizations, advocating for military families. His lifetime of service exemplifies devotion to country and the values of the armed forces.