June 12

Robert Radclyffe inherited the earldom of Sussex and distinguished himself as a soldier during conflicts in Europe. He held commands in the Low Countries and participated in royal military expeditions, demonstrating leadership and loyalty to the crown. Beyond his martial career, he managed his estates and played a role in local governance. Radclyffe’s nobility and military service exemplify the duties of English peers in the late Tudor and early Stuart periods. He died in 1629, remembered for his dedication to both court and battlefield.

Patrick Gass (1771–1870) was an American sergeant in the U.S. Army who played a vital role in the Lewis and Clark Expedition by maintaining its official journal. Having served in the Revolutionary War and trained as a carpenter and gunsmith, Gass’s skills were invaluable during the expedition’s westward exploration. In 1807, he published one of the first firsthand accounts of the journey, providing the public with insights into western geography and Native American cultures. His narrative contributed to the young nation’s knowledge of its expanding frontier and inspired future explorers. Gass continued his military service after the expedition and lived to the age of 98, leaving behind a unique legacy as both soldier and author.

Karl Freiherr von Müffling (1775–1851) was a distinguished Prussian field marshal celebrated for his command during the Napoleonic Wars. Commissioned as a young artillery officer, he demonstrated tactical skill at key battles such as Leipzig and Waterloo, earning rapid promotion. In peacetime, Müffling held senior staff roles, oversaw army reforms, and authored influential works on military strategy and fortifications. His advocacy for professional officer education and modern training methods helped shape the Prussian army’s modernization efforts. Elevated to field marshal in 1841, he remained an influential figure in European military circles until his death.

Samuel Cooper (1798–1876) was a career military officer who served as the adjutant general and highest-ranking general of the Confederate States Army. Born into a military family, Cooper graduated from West Point in 1815 and served in various United States Army posts, specializing in artillery and staff duties. When Southern states seceded, he resigned his U.S. commission and accepted appointment from President Jefferson Davis to organize and administer the Confederate forces. In his role, Cooper managed personnel, logistics, and administrative affairs, becoming a key figure in the Confederate war effort. After the Civil War, he surrendered his commission and lived a quiet life until his death in 1876.

Born in 1877 in Rockland, Maine, Hart graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1899. He rose through the ranks to become commander of the U.S. Asiatic Fleet during the early years of World War II. In recognition of his service, he was promoted to admiral and oversaw naval strategy in the Asia-Pacific region. After retiring from active duty, Hart was appointed to the U.S. Senate to fill a vacancy for Connecticut in 1945. He served until 1947, focusing on naval affairs and veterans' benefits legislation. His dual career in military and politics exemplified a commitment to public service. Hart's leadership contributed to shaping U.S. naval policy during a critical era in world history.

Born in 1897, Eden served in World War I before entering Parliament in 1923. As Foreign Secretary, he played a key role in the League of Nations and the policy of appeasement in the 1930s. He held the office of Foreign Secretary three times under Winston Churchill and helped shape postwar Europe. In 1955 he succeeded Churchill as Prime Minister. His tenure was dominated by the Suez Crisis of 1956, which damaged his reputation and Britain’s international standing. He resigned in 1957 and remains a controversial figure in British political history.

Born in Vienna in 1908, Skorzeny joined the Austrian army before transferring to the SS in 1935. He rose to prominence in 1943 by leading Operation Eiche, the glider-borne rescue of Benito Mussolini from captivity. Skorzeny later commanded special forces in the Battle of the Bulge and orchestrated other high-profile raids. After World War II, he avoided prosecution at Nuremberg and offered his military expertise as a consultant. He died in Madrid in 1975, remembered as one of Nazi Germany’s most audacious and controversial military figures.

Born in Quebec in 1913, Jean Victor Allard joined the Canadian Army and served with distinction during World War II, commanding armored units in Italy and Northwest Europe. He rose through the ranks to become the first French-Canadian general in the Canadian Army and later served as Chief of the General Staff, overseeing army modernization. In 1968, Allard was appointed Commander of Allied Forces Northern Europe for NATO, marking a significant milestone in international military cooperation. Known for his bilingual leadership and strategic vision, he played key roles in Cold War defense planning. Allard retired in 1970 and was celebrated for his dedication to service and groundbreaking achievements in the military.

Born in 1913, Desmond Piers joined the Royal Canadian Navy and distinguished himself in World War II by commanding destroyers on North Atlantic convoy escort missions. He earned the Distinguished Service Order and Distinguished Service Cross for his leadership and bravery under fire. After the war, Piers held senior positions within NATO's maritime commands, contributing to early Cold War naval strategy. As a rear admiral, he oversaw fleet modernization and training programs that enhanced Canada's naval readiness. Piers retired in 1962 and was revered for his dedication to service and excellence in naval command.