May 28

Originally a merchant known as Nishimura Kankurō, Saitō Dōsan rose to power by orchestrating the overthrow of the Toki clan to become lord of Mino Province in central Japan. His strategic acumen and ruthlessness in consolidating control earned him the nickname Viper of Mino. Dōsan fostered economic growth in his domain, promoting trade in oil and silk. He arranged his daughter's marriage to the rising warlord Oda Nobunaga, reflecting his diplomatic skill. In 1556, his conflict with his son Saitō Yoshitatsu led to a fatal battle, and Dōsan died on May 28, 1556. His life epitomizes the volatility of the Sengoku period.

William Carnegie, 7th Earl of Northesk, was born in 1756 into an aristocratic Scottish family. He joined the Royal Navy and served with distinction through the late 18th and early 19th centuries. He fought at the Battle of Trafalgar under Admiral Nelson, earning a reputation for bravery and tactical skill. After Trafalgar, he held several important commands and contributed to naval reforms. He became a respected figure in both naval and political circles before his death in 1831. His legacy endures as one of Britain’s celebrated admirals of the age of sail.

Fyodor Matveyevich Okhlopkov honed his marksmanship as a hunter before World War II. Serving on the Leningrad and Volkhov fronts, he achieved more than 400 confirmed kills against Axis forces. His precision and bravery earned him the title Hero of the Soviet Union in 1944. After the war, he continued serving in the military and later worked in civilian roles. Okhlopkov's wartime achievements remain a testament to his skill and courage.

Audie Murphy enlisted in the U.S. Army at age 17 and became one of the most decorated combat soldiers in World War II. He received every American combat award for valor, including the Medal of Honor, for his heroic actions in Europe. After the war, Murphy turned to acting and starred in films, most notably portraying himself in "To Hell and Back," an adaptation of his autobiography. His transition from war hero to Hollywood star made him a cultural icon. Murphy's legacy endures as a symbol of courage and resilience.

Herbert 'H.' Jones (1940–1982) was a commanding officer of the Parachute Regiment during the Falklands War. On May 28, 1982, he led a daring assault on Argentine positions at the Battle of Goose Green, advancing under heavy fire to inspire his troops. Jones was fatally wounded in the attack but his actions helped secure a pivotal victory for British forces. He was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross, Britain’s highest military honor, for conspicuous bravery. A graduate of Sandhurst, Jones was admired for his leadership and courage. His sacrifice remains emblematic of the conflict’s fierce combat and camaraderie.

Michael Barkai served in the Israeli Navy, rising to the position of commander in the late 1980s. He oversaw key naval operations and helped strengthen Israel's maritime defense strategies. Under his leadership, the navy modernized its fleet and training programs. He was respected for his strategic acumen and dedication to national security. After retiring from active service, Barkai remained an influential figure in Israel's military community. His leadership helped shape the future of the Israeli Navy.

Born in 1921, Viktor Kulikov joined the Red Army during the Second World War, rising rapidly due to his tactical skill. He participated in major Eastern Front operations before advancing to senior staff positions. In 1967, he was promoted to Marshal of the Soviet Union, the highest military rank. From 1977 to 1989, Kulikov served as Commander-in-Chief of the Warsaw Pact, overseeing allied forces during a critical period of the Cold War. He later advised the Soviet defense establishment before retiring. His strategic leadership left a lasting legacy on Soviet and Russian military doctrine. Kulikov passed away in 2013 at the age of 91.

Born in 1917, Gerd Schmückle began his military career in the Wehrmacht during the Second World War, holding key staff positions on the Eastern Front. After the war, he joined the newly formed Bundeswehr of West Germany, where he rose through the ranks to become a general. Schmückle played a significant role in integrating the German armed forces into NATO and modernizing its structures. He was respected for his strategic insights and commitment to professional soldiering. Following his retirement, he remained active in veterans’ organizations and contributed to discussions on military history and defense policy. Schmückle passed away in 2013, leaving behind a legacy of service and leadership.