May 31

Born in 1835 in Musashi Province, Hijikata Toshizō rose to prominence as the vice-commander of the Shinsengumi, an elite samurai police force in Kyoto. He was known for his strict discipline and unwavering loyalty to the Tokugawa shogunate. During the turbulent Bakumatsu era, he led his men in several key engagements. After the Meiji Restoration, he continued to resist imperial forces during the Boshin War. He was mortally wounded in battle in 1869 and is remembered as a symbol of samurai valor and perseverance.

Born in 1863 in India, Francis Younghusband served in the British Indian Army before embarking on exploratory missions in Central Asia. In 1903–1904, he led the British expedition to Tibet, resulting in the controversial Lhasa Convention. Younghusband wrote extensively about his travels and the cultures he encountered. Later in life, he became a spiritual writer and advocate for pacifism and international cooperation. His adventurous spirit and diplomatic efforts made him a notable figure in the age of exploration.

Erich Neumann was a German lieutenant who served with distinction in World War I before entering politics in the Weimar Republic. Born in 1892, he rose to regional prominence through his nationalist views and public service. Neumann held local and regional offices, advocating for veterans and conservative causes during the 1920s. His career illustrated the blurred lines between military leadership and political influence in postwar Germany. He witnessed the nation's upheavals and passed away in 1951, leaving a legacy tied to a transformative historical period.

James Eberle was an English naval officer born in 1927. Over a 40-year career, he advanced through the Royal Navy ranks to become an admiral. He held several major commands, contributing to NATO operations and Cold War naval strategy. Eberle was noted for his leadership and commitment to modernizing the fleet. After retiring, he served as a naval advisor and authored works on maritime defense issues. His tenure helped shape the Royal Navy's post-war direction and readiness.

Duncan Hunter was born May 31, 1948, in Pomona, California. After earning a degree from the University of Arizona, he served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve. Elected to Congress in 1980, he represented California's 52nd district for 14 terms, focusing on defense and veterans' issues. He rose to become chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, championing strong national security measures. A prominent conservative, Hunter's career spanned over two decades in Washington, D.C., and he was succeeded by his son, Duncan D. Hunter. Known for his outspoken style, he left a lasting mark on American legislative politics.