June 22

Hasdrubal Barca was a Carthaginian general and younger brother of Hannibal. He led reinforcements into Italy to support his brother’s campaign against Rome. In 207 BC he famously crossed the Alps and engaged Roman legions. At the Battle of the Metaurus River he suffered a crushing defeat. His death in the battle marked a pivotal moment that sealed Carthaginian fortunes in the war.

Leo Passianos was a Byzantine military commander active around 1017. He participated in the empire’s eastern frontier campaigns against regional rivals. Historical accounts mention his involvement in operations near Melitene. His career reflects the constant military challenges faced by Byzantium. Further details about his life and achievements remain scarce.

Roger I of Sicily, born in 1031, was a key Norman leader in southern Italy. He joined his brother in campaigns against Muslim-held Sicily beginning in 1061. By 1091 he had completed the conquest and established Christian rule on the island. As Count of Sicily, he introduced feudal structures and encouraged multicultural administration. His governance laid foundations for a prosperous, diverse Sicilian kingdom.

Born in 1588 into Tyrolean nobility. Entered the Imperial army and served under commanders like Count Tilly. Played a pivotal role at the Battle of White Mountain in 1620, securing Habsburg dominance in Bohemia. Promoted to field marshal for his leadership in subsequent campaigns across Central Europe. Commanded Imperial forces at the Battle of Lützen in 1632 amidst intense conflict. Wounded in action near Landshut and succumbed to his injuries on June 22, 1634. Remembered as one of the Holy Roman Empire's foremost military commanders.

Born in 1792, Rudecindo Alvarado began his military career in the wars for South American independence. He served as a key lieutenant under General José de San Martín during the Crossing of the Andes. His leadership and courage in battles such as Chacabuco established his reputation as a skilled commander. Following independence, Alvarado was appointed Governor of Mendoza Province, focusing on provincial development and stability. He remained active in public life, advocating for national unity and supporting military veterans. He died on June 22, 1872, remembered as one of Argentina's seminal military figures.

Isamu Chō was born in 1895 and graduated from the Imperial Japanese Army Academy. He served in various staff roles during the Second Sino-Japanese War. In 1945, he became commander of the 32nd Army defending Okinawa. Facing overwhelming odds, he organized the defense of the Shuri Line. On June 22, 1945, he died by suicide alongside his staff amid the battle’s end. He remains a controversial figure in Japanese military history.

Mitsuru Ushijima was born in 1887 and trained at the Imperial Japanese Army Academy. He fought in the Russo-Japanese War and World War I. Promoted to commander of the 32nd Army in 1945, he prepared Okinawa’s defenses. He favored defensive tactics, anticipating the island’s strategic value. After ordering his troops to cease fighting, he took his own life on June 22, 1945. His leadership is studied for its impact on Pacific War strategies.