May 27

John Beaufort was the eldest son of John of Gaunt and a key figure in Lancastrian politics. Created Duke of Somerset in 1444, he commanded English forces in France during the Hundred Years' War. He led troops at major battles but faced setbacks against French forces under the Dauphin Charles. Despite valiant efforts, his campaigns struggled amid shifting alliances and rising tides in France. He died in 1444, leaving a legacy of dedication to the Lancastrian cause and military service.

Archibald Campbell, 1st Marquess of Argyll (1607–1661), was a central figure in 17th-century Scottish politics and military affairs. As chief of Clan Campbell, he championed the Covenanter cause, defending Presbyterian church governance against royal interference. He commanded forces in the Bishops' Wars and allied with Oliver Cromwell's armies during the Wars of the Three Kingdoms. Created Marquess of Argyll in 1641, he wielded significant influence in both civic and ecclesiastical spheres. Following the Restoration of Charles II, he was arrested, tried for treason, and executed. His life epitomizes the tumultuous conflicts between monarchy and religious factions in the British Isles.

Ernst Lindemann was born in 1894 and rose through the Imperial German Navy in World War I. He commanded several destroyers before being appointed captain of the battleship Bismarck in 1941. Under his leadership, Bismarck undertook its first and only combat mission, Operation Rheinübung, in May 1941. Lindemann's resolve and tactical skill were noted by both crew and superiors. He went down with his ship when Bismarck was sunk by the Royal Navy on May 27, 1941. Lindemann is remembered for his professionalism and bravery under fire.

Born in 1889, Günther Lütjens began his naval career in the Imperial German Navy before serving in World War I. He advanced through the ranks, specializing in naval tactics and strategy. In May 1941, as commander of Operation Rheinübung, Lütjens led the battlecruiser Bismarck and cruiser Prinz Eugen into the North Atlantic. His leadership during the engagement with British forces demonstrated both courage and discipline. Lütjens was killed when Bismarck was sunk on May 27, 1941, dying at his post on the ship's bridge. He is remembered as one of Germany's prominent naval officers of the era.

Blue served as an officer in the United States military before transitioning to civilian life with a passion for teaching. He spent years as an educator, inspiring students through his dedication to academic excellence. Simultaneously, he founded and managed a thriving local business that contributed to regional economic growth. His commitment to public service led him to run for office, where he advocated for veterans’ affairs and community development. Known for his integrity, he bridged the worlds of military discipline, education, enterprise, and politics. Throughout his varied career, Blue left a legacy of civic engagement and leadership at every level.

Kazimierz Leski was a Polish engineer and intelligence officer renowned for his daring exploits during World War II. After graduating in engineering, he joined the Polish resistance and undertook numerous secret missions in occupied Europe. Serving as a pilot in the Royal Air Force, he conducted reconnaissance flights and supported Allied operations. After the war, he was imprisoned by the communist government but was later released and resumed his career in engineering and telecommunications. Leski’s courage and resourcefulness made him one of Poland’s most celebrated wartime heroes.

Franz Künstler enlisted in the Austro-Hungarian Army in early 1918 and served as an infantryman during the final months of World War I. Born in 1900 in what is now Romania, he witnessed the collapse of the empire and the redrawing of Europe’s borders. After the war, Künstler studied agriculture and worked on his family farm before emigrating to Canada in the 1930s. He was recognized by historians and governments as the last surviving veteran of the Austro-Hungarian military. In his later years, he shared memories of his youth in wartime and spoke on the importance of peace. Künstler passed away in 2008 at the age of 107, closing a living chapter of early 20th-century history.

Sir William Refshauge (1913–2009) was an Australian Army medical officer and physician. He served with distinction during World War II and later led initiatives to advance veterans’ healthcare and public health administration. Refshauge’s research and leadership improved medical services for service members and civilians alike. He held senior positions in government health departments, championing medical policy and education. His contributions left a lasting impact on military medicine and Australian public health.