June 21

Served in the French Navy for over fifty years. Distinguished himself in engagements such as the Battle of Cape Henry. He led French squadrons to support American forces against the British. Guichen's tactics contributed to naval successes in the Caribbean and Atlantic. He was promoted to Marshal of France in recognition of his service.

Offered distinguished leadership at battles such as Trenton and Monmouth. He organized and commanded brigades composed largely of New Hampshire troops. Poor was noted for his discipline and ability to maintain morale under fire. He served on key councils and influenced strategic decisions in the northern theater. His efforts helped secure American independence before his untimely death.

Born in 1764, Sir Sidney Smith rose through the ranks of the Royal Navy to become a Rear-Admiral. He is best known for leading the defense of Acre in 1799, successfully halting Napoleon's advance in the Eastern Mediterranean. His daring tactics and leadership earned him a knighthood and widespread acclaim. Later in his career, he served as a member of the British Parliament and held senior naval administrative posts. Smith published memoirs recounting his naval exploits and maintained an influential public presence. He died in 1840, remembered as a bold strategist and national hero of the Napoleonic era.

Born in 1882, Adrianus de Jong became one of the Netherlands' leading fencers, competing in early 20th-century international tournaments including the Olympics. He balanced his athletic career with military service, rising through the ranks of the Dutch army. His skill with the foil and epee earned him acclaim among European fencers of his era. After retiring from competition, he contributed to the sport as a coach and mentor. De Jong's dual legacy in sport and service exemplifies the spirit of dedication and discipline.

Born in 1884 in India, Claude Auchinleck was educated at Sandhurst and commissioned into the British Army. He served with distinction in World War I before rising to command roles in World War II. As commander of the Eighth Army in North Africa, he fought critical battles but was later replaced after El Alamein. Auchinleck then became Commander-in-Chief in India, overseeing the defense of the subcontinent. His memoirs and leadership decisions continue to be studied by military historians.

Momsen graduated from the US Naval Academy and devoted his career to submarine safety. He developed the Momsen lung to provide submariners a reliable escape device from sunken vessels. His invention saved numerous lives and influenced future diving technology. During World War II, he rose to the rank of rear admiral and oversaw critical submarine rescue operations. Momsen was awarded the Navy Distinguished Service Medal for his pioneering work and continued to serve until his retirement. He passed away in 1967.

Born in 1912 in Warsaw, Leski graduated from the Warsaw University of Technology with an engineering degree and became a skilled pilot. During World War II, he joined the Polish underground and executed high-risk flights delivering personnel and intelligence across enemy lines. Using his engineering skills, he crafted false identity papers that enabled thousands to escape Nazi-occupied Poland. Following his arrest in 1943, Leski endured imprisonment in Sachsenhausen concentration camp before liberation. After the war, he contributed to Poland's rail industry and published memoirs detailing his wartime exploits. Leski's bravery, ingenuity, and dedication to his country made him a celebrated hero of the Polish resistance.

Togo D. West Jr. was an American lawyer and senior Army officer who dedicated his career to public service. He served in the Judge Advocate General's Corps and held senior roles at the Departments of the Army and Navy. In 1998, President Bill Clinton appointed him as the third United States Secretary of Veterans Affairs. During his tenure, he worked to improve healthcare and benefits for American veterans. West was also known for his leadership in civil rights and his commitment to equality. He passed away in 2018, leaving a legacy of service and advocacy for military personnel.

Mark Kimmitt is a retired U.S. Army Brigadier General who served in Operation Desert Storm and the Iraq War. He was appointed the 16th Assistant Secretary of State for Political-Military Affairs from 2008 to 2009. In this role, Kimmitt oversaw defense trade, security assistance, and military policy coordination. He also served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of State and as a senior diplomat in the Middle East. After his government service, he has been active as a consultant and lecturer on international security issues.

John Baron was born on June 21, 1959. He began his career as a British Army officer, reaching the rank of captain before entering politics. He was elected as the Member of Parliament for Basildon and Billericay in 2001 and has been re-elected in every subsequent election. Baron focuses on defense, healthcare, and education policy, drawing on his military experience to inform his work. He has served on key parliamentary committees, including Health and Foreign Affairs, contributing to major legislative debates. Known for his independent-minded approach, Baron maintains a strong record of constituent engagement and advocacy.

Yang Liwei (born 1965) is a Chinese Air Force general, pilot, and astronaut who became the first Chinese national to travel into space. In 2003, he piloted the Shenzhou 5 spacecraft, marking a milestone in China's space exploration efforts. His successful mission established China as the third nation to independently send humans into orbit. Following his historic flight, Yang has served in leadership roles within the Chinese space agency, promoting scientific advancement. He is celebrated as a national hero for his contributions to aerospace and inspiration to future generations of explorers.