May 28

Born in 1140 during the Southern Song dynasty, Xin Qiji rose to prominence as a scholar-official. He distinguished himself on the battlefield by leading forces against Jurchen invaders, earning a reputation for valor. His poetry, especially in the Ci form, is celebrated for its emotional depth and vivid imagery. Xin's works blended patriotic fervor with personal reflection, influencing later generations of poets. As a statesman, he served in various administrative roles and advocated for local governance and reform. His legacy endures in Chinese literature and history as both a patriotic poet and dedicated official.

Born in 1371 to Philip the Bold, John inherited the dukedom of Burgundy and became a central figure in French politics. He led Burgundian forces during the Hundred Years' War, forging alliances that challenged the Armagnac faction. His ambition and diplomatic maneuvering deepened the civil conflict between Burgundians and Armagnacs in France. In 1419, he met a dramatic end when he was assassinated during a meeting on the bridge at Montereau, underscoring the era's violence. John's leadership strengthened Burgundy's power and laid the groundwork for his son Philip the Good's prosperous reign. His tumultuous career shaped the political landscape of late medieval France.

Born in Lisbon in 1663, António Manoel de Vilhena was elected Grand Master of the Order of Saint John in 1722. He oversaw major fortification projects in Malta, including the construction of Fort Manoel and improvements to Valletta. Vilhena was a patron of the arts and sciences, commissioning hospitals, churches, and public works. Under his leadership, Malta enjoyed a period of relative peace and prosperity in the Mediterranean. He reformed the order's internal administration, strengthening governance and discipline among the knights. His name endures in Maltese landmarks and the cultural legacy he left on the islands.

P. G. T. Beauregard (Pierre Gustave Toutant-Beauregard) was the first prominent general of the Confederate Army. He ordered the bombardment of Fort Sumter in April 1861, igniting the American Civil War. At the First Battle of Bull Run, his tactical decisions led to the Confederacy's first major victory. After the war, he served in Louisiana politics and advocated for veterans' rights and racial reconciliation. An innovative engineer before the conflict, his military writings influenced artillery tactics and fortification design. Beauregard remains a controversial figure whose leadership shaped the early course of the Civil War.

Born in 1914, W. G. G. Duncan Smith pursued a career in military aviation, rising to the rank of captain. He gained recognition for his aviation skills and leadership in the air corps. After military service, he contributed to civilian flight training programs. His career spanned the transition from early biplanes to more advanced aircraft. He died in 1996, remembered for his lifelong dedication to aviation.

Tom Uren (1921–2015) was an Australian soldier, boxer, and Labor Party politician. He served in the Pacific during World War II and endured imprisonment by Japanese forces. After the war, Uren won national boxing titles before entering politics. He represented the Reid constituency in the House of Representatives from 1958 to 1990. As Deputy Leader of the Labor Party, he championed urban renewal and environmental conservation. Uren's resilience and advocacy left a lasting mark on Australian public life.

Tuomas Gerdt (1922–2020) was a Finnish soldier and decorated war hero. He received the Mannerheim Cross, Finland's highest military honor, for bravery in WWII. Gerdt served in the Continuation War on the Karelian Isthmus and the Svir sector. After the war, he became a respected lawyer and continued to serve veterans' causes. In his later years, he was the last living Knight of the Mannerheim Cross, preserving wartime memories. Gerdt's legacy remains emblematic of Finnish courage and national resilience.

Edward du Cann was born in 1924 and served as an officer in the Royal Navy during World War II. After his naval service, he entered politics as a member of the Conservative Party. He was elected Member of Parliament for Taunton in 1956 and served until 1987. Du Cann held ministerial roles including Minister of State for Trade and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster. As chairman of the parliamentary party's 1922 Committee, he exercised significant influence over Conservative leadership. He remained an active figure in British politics until his retirement and passed away in 2017.

Peter Wilkinson dedicated over forty years to service in the Royal Navy. He rose through the ranks, commanding multiple frigates and destroyers with distinction. Known for his strategic insight, he oversaw key maritime operations and contributed to modern training protocols. As an admiral, he played a pivotal role in naval readiness and operational planning. He earned commendations for leadership and mentorship of junior officers. After retiring, he remained active in veterans’ associations and naval history circles.