May 24

Germanicus Julius Caesar (15 BC–AD 19) was a distinguished Roman general and the nephew of Emperor Tiberius. He commanded legions in the Germanic Wars and achieved notable victories against Germanic tribes. His recovery of the lost Roman eagles enhanced his reputation and garnered widespread acclaim in Rome. Germanicus was celebrated for his charisma, leadership skills, and strong bond with the soldiers under his command. He also served as heir apparent to the throne before his untimely death in AD 19. His demise sparked rumors of poisoning and had a lasting emotional impact on the Roman populace. Germanicus's legacy influenced subsequent generations and appears in works of ancient historians.

Jan Smuts was born in 1870 in the Cape Colony and distinguished himself as a soldier during the Second Boer War. He co-founded the South African Party and first became Prime Minister in 1919, serving again from 1939 to 1948. Smuts played a key role in establishing both the League of Nations and the United Nations as a proponent of international cooperation. His military leadership extended to both World Wars, where he commanded troops and advised Allied strategy. An influential writer on holistic philosophy, Smuts left a complex legacy marked by both global statesmanship and contentious domestic policies.

Edward 'Mick' Mannock joined the Royal Flying Corps in 1917 and quickly distinguished himself in aerial combat. Credited with 61 victories, he was one of the highest-scoring British aces of World War I. Mannock pioneered tactics such as flying in tight formations to protect wingmen. He was awarded the Victoria Cross, the Distinguished Service Order, and other honors for his bravery. Admired for his leadership and tactical innovation, he trained many new pilots. Mannock was killed in action in July 1918, but his influence on air combat tactics endured.

Joe Abreu made his MLB debut with the Cincinnati Reds in 1938 as a versatile infielder and outfielder. His professional career was interrupted by military service when he enlisted in the U.S. Army during World War II. After the war, Abreu returned to baseball, playing in the minor leagues and mentoring younger players. He was known for his disciplined approach at the plate and his leadership in the clubhouse. Following his retirement from playing, he remained active in his community, coaching youth baseball programs. Abreu is remembered for balancing a commitment to his country with his passion for the sport.

Sir Roden Cutler received the Victoria Cross for his valor during the Syria-Lebanon campaign in World War II. Wounded and blinded in action, he displayed extraordinary courage in rescuing fellow soldiers under fire. After the war, Cutler embarked on a diplomatic career, serving as Australia’s High Commissioner to Pakistan and ambassador to multiple countries. In 1966, he was appointed the 32nd Governor of New South Wales, becoming the state’s longest-serving governor until 1981. Cutler was known for his dignified presence and dedication to public service, supporting numerous charitable and veterans’ organizations. He was knighted in 1951 and received multiple honors for his leadership. His legacy endures in memorials and institutions bearing his name across Australia.

Richard Ottaway was commissioned as a lieutenant in the British Army before entering politics with the Conservative Party. He was first elected MP for Nottingham North in 1983 and later represented Croydon South from 1992 until 2015. Ottaway served as Shadow Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, focusing on agricultural and environmental policy. He chaired the Foreign Affairs Select Committee, overseeing scrutiny of UK foreign policy and international relations. Known for his disciplined approach and commitment to constituency work, he retired from Parliament after over three decades of service. Ottaway’s career bridged military discipline and legislative leadership, influencing key policy debates in government.

Monica Lin Brown enlisted in the U.S. Army and served as a combat medic. During a 2006 mission in Afghanistan, she repeatedly exposed herself to enemy fire to treat wounded soldiers. For her actions, she was awarded the Silver Star, becoming one of the first women since World War II to earn the decoration. She has since been recognized for her dedication to saving lives and her trailblazing role in the military. Brown continues to inspire service members and civilians alike with her bravery and commitment.