May 16

John Komnenos Vatatzes was a prominent general during the reign of the Komnenian dynasty in Byzantium. He led imperial forces in key engagements against the Normans and Seljuk Turks, demonstrating strategic skill on the battlefield. A member of the extended imperial family, he also held significant civil authority in frontier provinces. His military campaigns contributed to the stabilization of Byzantine borders. He died in 1182, leaving a record as one of the era's notable commanders.

Liu Bowen, born in 1311, was a key advisor to Zhu Yuanzhang, the founder of the Ming dynasty. He crafted military strategies that helped unify China and secure the new dynasty's power. Renowned for his literary talent, he composed poetry and prose that reflected both scholarly depth and political insight. His works include commentaries on the I Ching and other classics, influencing Chinese thought for centuries. Liu Bowen's blend of martial acumen and literary skill has made him a legendary figure in Chinese history. He died in 1375, leaving a legacy as both a statesman and a cultural icon.

Born in 1860, Paraskevopoulos graduated from the Hellenic Military Academy and rose to the rank of general. He commanded troops during the First Balkan War, contributing to Greece's territorial gains. During World War I, he served in senior military positions on the Macedonian front. After retirement, he entered politics, advocating for veterans and national defense. He passed away in 1936, remembered for his dedication to both military service and public life.

Zhang Lingfu (1903–1947) was a high-ranking general in the National Revolutionary Army of the Republic of China. He earned acclaim for his strategic command of the elite 74th Division during the Second Sino-Japanese War. Zhang played a pivotal role in the defense of Xuzhou in 1938 and later fought in the Chinese Civil War. Renowned for his personal bravery and tactical skill, he became a symbol of nationalist resistance. He was killed in action near Huaiyin in May 1947, cementing his legacy as a war hero.

Born in 1939, Boorda enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1956 and rose through the ranks to become its highest officer. In 1994, he was appointed Chief of Naval Operations, leading the Navy during the post-Cold War era. He implemented reforms aimed at modernization and efficiency while focusing on personnel readiness. Boorda was known for his commitment to enlisted sailors and improving their career paths, being the first CNO to have served as an enlisted sailor. His sudden death by suicide in 1996 shocked the Navy and led to widespread debate about leadership pressures and personal integrity.

Born in Western Australia in 1899, Campbell enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force at age 16 and lied about his age to serve on the front lines. He took part in the Gallipoli Campaign in 1915 before being transferred to the Western Front in France. After the war, he returned to civilian life as a farmer and maintained connections with fellow veterans. Leaning into his status as the last ANZAC Gallipoli veteran, he attended commemorations and shared his experiences with younger generations. Campbell died in 2002, marking the end of an era in Australian military history.

Born in 1915, Goodpaster graduated from West Point and rose to prominence during World War II as a corps staff officer. He later served as military aide to President Dwight D. Eisenhower, earning a reputation for strategic insight and diplomatic skill. In the 1960s, he was appointed Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR), leading NATO forces during the Cold War. After retiring from active duty, Goodpaster became Superintendent of the U.S. Military Academy and served as a special adviser to subsequent administrations. His leadership spanned combat operations, military education, and high-level government service. Goodpaster died in 2005, remembered for his commitment to international security and professional military excellence.

Born in 1923 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Abdnor served as a captain in the U.S. Army during World War II. After the war, he returned home and entered politics, serving in the South Dakota State Senate and U.S. House of Representatives. Elected to the U.S. Senate in 1980, he advocated for rural communities and agricultural interests. Under President Reagan, he was appointed to lead the Farmers Home Administration, overseeing rural development programs. Known for his integrity and dedication to public service, he passed away on May 16, 2012, remembered as a champion of small-town America.