June 24

Born in Galicia in 1360, Nuno Álvares Pereira became Constable of Portugal and a key commander during the 1383–1385 Crisis. He led Portuguese forces to decisive victories at the Battle of Atoleiros and the Battle of Aljubarrota, ensuring Portugal's sovereignty from Castile. Renowned for his tactical genius and personal piety, he earned the title 'Holy Constable'. After retiring from military life, Nuno joined the Carmelite Order in 1423 and lived a life of humility and charity. He cared for the poor and sick, funded hospitals and religious institutions, and wrote spiritual works. Canonized in 2009, he is venerated as a saint in the Catholic Church. His life bridges the roles of warrior and monk, leaving a lasting impact on Portuguese identity.

John Belasyse was born in 1614 into a prominent Yorkshire family. He supported King Charles I as a Royalist, raising cavalry units and participating in key battles of the English Civil War. Captured during the Preston campaign of 1648, he later regained royal favor after the Restoration. In recognition of his loyalty, Charles II created him Baron Belasyse and appointed him Governor of York. Belasyse held court positions and managed family estates, navigating the political landscape of Restoration England. His marriage alliances and estate disputes marked his later years, reflecting the complexities of 17th-century nobility.

William Hull was born in 1753 in Derby, Connecticut, and served as a brigadier general during the American Revolutionary War. After the war, he became involved in politics and was appointed the first Governor of the Michigan Territory in 1805. Hull oversaw the establishment of governmental institutions and encouraged settlement and infrastructure development in the region. During the War of 1812, he commanded U.S. forces at Detroit but controversially surrendered the city to British troops in 1812. Although criticized for this decision, his earlier career included significant contributions to America's fight for independence. After his release from British captivity, Hull defended his actions through writings and public service. His complex legacy reflects both military courage and the challenges of early American frontier leadership.

Born in Buenos Aires in 1774, Antonio González de Balcarce embarked on a military career opposing Spanish rule during the May Revolution of 1810. He distinguished himself in key battles of the Argentine War of Independence and earned recognition for his leadership and strategic skill. In 1816, he was appointed the 5th Supreme Director, overseeing the government of the United Provinces of the Río de la Plata. Despite his popular support, internal conflicts and health issues led to his resignation in 1818. He died of illness in 1819, but his efforts helped lay the foundation for modern Argentina’s independence and nationhood.

Born in 1774, Haxo joined the French army and combined military service with engineering expertise. He was involved in designing and upgrading key fortifications along France’s borders. His work influenced the evolution of modern military engineering and defensive architecture. He achieved the rank of general and earned the Legion of Honour for his service. He passed away in 1838, leaving a legacy as one of France’s foremost military engineers of his era.

Born in 1777 in Scotland, Ross entered the Royal Navy as a midshipman at a young age. In 1818, he led his first Arctic voyage, charting previously unexplored regions. His 1829 expedition to the Boothia Peninsula resulted in the discovery of the Ross Strait. Although met with controversy, his work expanded European knowledge of the Arctic. He retired in 1846 and died in 1856, remembered for his pioneering spirit and resilience.

Born in 1782 in Spain, Larrea emigrated to Buenos Aires and became a successful merchant and naval captain. He was a prominent supporter of the May Revolution of 1810, advocating for independence from Spain. As a member of the Primera Junta, he helped lay the groundwork for Argentina’s national institutions. He also contributed financially to the revolutionary cause. His political career ended amid internal conflicts, and he died in exile in 1847.

Born in 1784 in Minas, Uruguay, Lavalleja joined the independence movement under José Gervasio Artigas. In 1825, he led the Thirty-Three Orientals in a daring expedition that ignited the Cisplatine War against Brazil. He played a key role in securing Uruguay’s sovereignty and was later elected President in 1828. His tenure was marked by ongoing political strife and efforts to stabilize the new nation. He remained an influential figure until his death in 1853.

Born in County Kerry, Ireland, in 1850, Herbert Kitchener rose through the ranks of the British Army as an engineer and staff officer. He gained fame for commanding the Anglo-Egyptian forces at the Battle of Omdurman in 1898, which secured British control over Sudan. Appointed Governor-General of Sudan, he implemented administrative reforms and modern infrastructure projects. During the early years of World War I, Kitchener served as Secretary of State for War and became the face of the massive volunteer recruitment campaign. He perished in 1916 when HMS Hampshire struck a mine off the Orkney Islands, marking a dramatic end to a storied military career.

João Cândido Felisberto rose through the ranks of the Brazilian Navy despite the era’s racial barriers. In 1910, he led the Revolt of the Lash aboard Brazil’s dreadnoughts to protest inhumane treatment of sailors. His leadership pressured the government to abolish corporal punishment and improve conditions for naval personnel. Despite initial amnesty, Felisberto faced persecution and spent years in hardship after the revolt. Decades later, his contributions were recognized, and he received a pension honoring his service. Felisberto remains celebrated in Brazil as the 'Black Admiral' and an early advocate for human rights.

Alfons Rebane served with distinction in the Estonian Army and volunteered in Finland’s Winter War before World War II. During the German occupation, he commanded Estonian units in the Waffen-SS and earned the Knight’s Cross of the Iron Cross for leadership on the Eastern Front. After the war, he emigrated to the United Kingdom, where he worked in intelligence with MI6 and advocated for Estonia’s independence. His military acumen and commitment to his homeland made him a respected figure among Estonian émigrés and historians.

Deloor emerged as a road racing talent in the 1930s, capturing victory in the inaugural Vuelta a España in 1935 and repeating the feat in 1936. His endurance and tactical acumen marked him as one of Belgium's leading cyclists of the era. During World War II, he joined the military effort, putting his athletic career on hold to serve his country. After the war, Deloor remained involved in cycling as a mentor to younger riders. He is remembered as a pioneer of Belgian cycling history.