June 13

Xiahou Dun (died 220 AD) served as one of Cao Cao’s most trusted commanders during the turbulent end of the Han dynasty. He distinguished himself in numerous campaigns, often leading his troops from the front and demonstrating personal courage. At the Battle of Xingyang, he famously continued fighting after an arrow struck his eye, inspiring his soldiers and earning the nickname ‘One-Eyed Xiahou.’ His military leadership helped lay the groundwork for the state of Cao Wei during the Three Kingdoms period. Later historical chronicles and the classic Romance of the Three Kingdoms novel immortalized his exploits and valor. Xiahou Dun’s story endures as a symbol of loyalty and bravery in Chinese military lore.

Miyamoto Musashi was a renowned samurai and ronin of the early Edo period, famed for his undefeated record in over sixty duels. He founded the Niten Ichi-ryu style of swordsmanship, mastering both the katana and wakizashi. Beyond his martial prowess, he was a philosopher and artist, creating ink paintings and calligraphy. His treatise, The Book of Five Rings, remains a seminal work on strategy and mindset. Musashi's life and legend continue to inspire martial artists and strategists worldwide.

Egbert Bartholomeusz Kortenaer was a celebrated admiral in the Dutch Republic, distinguished for his leadership in the First and Second Anglo-Dutch Wars. He played a key role at the Battle of Scheveningen, demonstrating tactical skill and composure under fire. Rising to the rank of Lieutenant Admiral of Holland, he became a national figure of naval courage. Kortenaer sustained mortal wounds off the coast of Norway in 1665, cementing his heroic reputation. His legacy endures in Dutch naval history as a model of seamanship and dedication.

Sava Kovačević was born in 1905 in Jelen Do, Montenegro. He fought in the Spanish Civil War with the International Brigades before returning to Yugoslavia. During World War II, he joined the Partisan resistance and rose to command the 2nd Proletarian Division. Kovačević distinguished himself in key battles, including the Battle of Neretva. He was posthumously awarded the title People's Hero of Yugoslavia for his leadership and bravery. He died in action in 1943, becoming a symbol of the Yugoslav anti-fascist struggle.

Donald "Deke" Slayton was born in 1924 in Sparta, Wisconsin. He served as a U.S. Air Force pilot during the Korean War before being selected as one of the first seven NASA astronauts in 1959. Grounded due to a heart condition, he became NASA's Director of Flight Crew Operations, playing a vital role in crew assignments for Mercury, Gemini and Apollo missions. In 1975, Slayton finally flew into space aboard the Apollo–Soyuz Test Project, becoming the world's first NASA astronaut to launch after being grounded. His leadership and expertise were instrumental in mission planning and astronaut training. Later, he served as NASA's chief astronaut, overseeing programs and ensuring crew safety. Slayton passed away in 1993, leaving a lasting legacy in human space exploration.