June 23

Born in 950 into the Udonid dynasty, Lothair Udo I inherited the County of Stade in northern Saxony. He played a significant role in defending the borderlands against Slavic incursions and forging alliances with neighboring nobles. His tenure strengthened the position of the Counts of Stade within the Holy Roman Empire. Contemporary annals praise his martial prowess and commitment to Christian expansion. He laid the groundwork for his successors to further consolidate territorial power in the region.

Dying in 1018, Henry I was appointed as the inaugural Margrave of the Eastern March, later known as Austria. He established fortified settlements along the Danube and defended the frontier against Magyar raids. His leadership laid the foundation for the rise of the Babenberg dynasty, which would rule Austria for centuries. Chroniclers noted his strength in battle and diplomatic acumen in securing imperial favor. His efforts transformed a border region into a stable march that strengthened the Holy Roman Empire's eastern defenses.

Henry de Bohun was an English knight from the powerful de Bohun family. He served King Edward II during the Wars of Scottish Independence. At the Battle of Bannockburn on 23 June 1314, he famously charged at Robert the Bruce and was unhorsed and killed. His defeat became one of the most iconic moments of the battle and symbolized Scottish resistance. He was the brother of Humphrey de Bohun, 4th Earl of Hereford, and his death marked a turning point in the conflict.

Dragut (c. 1485–23 June 1565), also known as Turgut Reis, was one of the most feared Ottoman naval commanders. A protégé of Barbarossa, he led corsair raids across the Mediterranean, capturing numerous ships and coastal towns. As Bey of Algiers and later ruler of Tripoli, he fortified harbors and expanded Ottoman influence in North Africa. Dragut played a key role in the Siege of Malta in 1565 before being killed by a cannon shot. His naval tactics and leadership cemented his reputation as a master of maritime warfare.

Shimizu Muneharu (1537–23 June 1582) was a samurai general of the Amago clan during Japan's Sengoku period. Appointed governor of Bitchu-Takayama Castle, he resisted the forces of Oda Nobunaga in a protracted siege. Despite outnumbered defenders and dwindling supplies, Muneharu held out for months, earning respect for his steadfast loyalty. He ultimately surrendered under terms but chose seppuku to preserve his honor. His courageous stand is remembered as a testament to samurai valor.

Mashita Nagamori (1545–23 June 1615) was a prominent samurai and one of Toyotomi Hideyoshi's trusted administrators. As one of the Five Commissioners (Go-Tairō), he helped govern Japan and oversee financial and land affairs. After Hideyoshi's death, Nagamori sided with Ishida Mitsunari in the Battle of Sekigahara, which led to his dispossession and imprisonment by Tokugawa Ieyasu. He spent his remaining years under house arrest. His rise and fall illustrate the volatile nature of power during the transition to the Edo period.

Born around 1691 in Tigray, Mikael Sehul rose to prominence as a powerful general in the Ethiopian empire. As Ras of Tigray, he wielded significant military and political influence during the Zemene Mesafint (Era of Princes). In 1769 he deposed Emperor Iyoas I and asserted de facto control over the imperial government. Mikael's strategic alliances and military campaigns shaped the balance of power among Ethiopia's regional states. His rule was marked by both political acumen and controversy, including accusations of harsh treatment of rivals. He maintained his authority until his death in 1779, leaving a complex legacy as one of Ethiopia's most formidable warlords.

Born in 1889 in the Ottoman Empire, Salih Omurtak graduated from the Ottoman Military Academy and served as an officer during World War I. He later joined Mustafa Kemal Atatürk in the Turkish War of Independence, helping to secure the nation's sovereignty. Rising through the ranks, Omurtak became Chief of the General Staff of the Turkish Armed Forces in the 1940s. He implemented modernization programs and reorganized the military structure to strengthen the young republic. He is remembered as a key architect of Turkey's early defense forces.

Roscoe Turner (1895–1970) was an American aviator famous for his daring World War I service and his dominant performances in 1930s air races. He won multiple Thompson and Bendix Trophy races, setting speed records and captivating audiences with his signature goggles and patriotic racing car. Turner's flamboyant flying style and aerobatic exhibitions made him one of the most popular pilots of his era. During World War II, he contributed to military aviation training programs, sharing his expertise with new generations of pilots. His legacy endures in the history of early air racing and aviation showmanship.

Frank Chee Willeto served in the U.S. Army before dedicating his life to tribal governance. He was elected to the Navajo Nation Council and held various leadership roles. In 2010, he became the 4th Vice President of the Navajo Nation, championing education and healthcare initiatives. Willeto worked tirelessly to preserve Navajo language and culture while promoting economic development. His commitment to public service strengthened the sovereignty and well-being of the Navajo people. He passed away in 2012, remembered as a devoted leader and community advocate.

Born in 1933 in the United States, Frank Kelso embarked on a naval career that spanned over three decades. Rising through the ranks to admiral, he held key command positions at sea and on shore. In his role as United States Secretary of the Navy, Kelso guided naval policy and readiness during a time of strategic transition. His leadership focused on modernization efforts and professional development within the fleet. After retiring from active service, he continued to provide counsel to defense organizations and veteran groups. Kelso died in 2013, remembered for his distinguished service and impact on naval affairs.