June 27

Born in 1567, Date Masamune rose to power as the head of the Date clan in the Tōhoku region. Despite losing an eye to smallpox, he earned the nickname 'One-Eyed Dragon' for his fierce leadership and martial prowess. He promoted foreign trade, welcomed Western missionaries, and commissioned the famed embassy of Hasekura Tsunenaga to the Vatican. Masamune founded and developed the castle town that became Sendai, leaving a lasting urban legacy. He was also a patron of the arts and religion, blending samurai tradition with openness to new ideas. His strategic alliances and diplomatic ventures secured his clan’s prosperity until his death in 1636.

Born into the Noailles family, Philippe de Noailles began his military service in the 1730s and saw action in the War of the Austrian Succession. He commanded French forces at engagements near Parma and in campaigns of the Seven Years’ War. Known for his tactical acumen and personal courage, he earned the respect of peers and soldiers alike. His career spanned decades of shifting alliances and conflict in Europe. Despite his noble status, he remained closely involved with his troops and oversaw training of young officers. During the French Revolution, he was arrested and executed in 1794, bringing a dramatic end to a storied martial career.

Ranjit Singh rose from local chieftaincy to unify the Sikh misls into the powerful Sikh Empire based in Punjab. Born in 1780, he adeptly combined diplomacy with military strength to forge a modern state. As Maharaja from 1801, he reformed his army along European lines and secured his territory against Afghan invaders and British expansion. Known for his tolerant rule, Ranjit Singh employed people of various faiths in his administration and promoted cultural patronage, including the renovation of the Golden Temple in Amritsar. He oversaw impressive urban development and the introduction of modern infrastructure across his realm. Under his leadership, the Sikh Army became one of South Asia's most formidable forces. His reign brought stability and prosperity to Punjab until his death in 1839. Ranjit Singh's legacy endures in regional history and the memory of Sikh sovereignty.

John Berryman was born in 1825 and served with distinction in the British Army during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. His conspicuous bravery at the Siege of Lucknow earned him the Victoria Cross, the highest military decoration of the British Empire. Berryman's courage under fire and leadership inspired his fellow soldiers and contributed to critical victories. After his return to England, he remained an advocate for veterans and shared his wartime experiences to honor his comrades. His life exemplified valor and dedication in one of the British Army's most challenging campaigns. He died in 1896, leaving a legacy of service that continues to be remembered by military historians. Berryman's story remains a testament to individual heroism in the face of adversity.

Karl Allmenröder (1896–1917) was a German fighter pilot and one of the most successful aces of World War I, claiming 30 confirmed aerial victories. Serving initially in artillery, he transferred to the Luftstreitkräfte and joined Jagdstaffel 11 under Manfred von Richthofen. Known for his skill and bravery, Allmenröder earned the Pour le Mérite, Germany’s highest military honor. He flew the iconic Fokker Dr.I triplane emblazoned with personal insignia. On June 27, 1917, he was killed in action near Zillebeke, his death marking the loss of a key figure among the Red Barons. His legacy endures in the history of military aviation as a symbol of early air combat.

Hermann Buhl (1924-1957) was an Austrian mountaineer whose daring feats transformed Himalayan climbing. In 1953, he completed the first ascent of Nanga Parbat, 8125 meters, in a solo push that became legendary in alpinism. A veteran of World War II, Buhl's military training honed his endurance and resilience under extreme conditions. He died in a fall on Chogolisa in 1957, but his writings and the 'Hermann Buhl route' on Nanga Parbat continue to inspire climbers. Known for his minimalist style and unyielding spirit, Buhl remains a towering figure in the history of mountaineering.

Georgios Papadopoulos (1919–1999) was a colonel in the Hellenic Army who orchestrated the 1967 coup d'état in Greece. As head of the ruling military junta, he suspended democratic institutions and governed by decree. Papadopoulos served as Prime Minister and nominal Regent for King Constantine II before proclaiming Greece a republic. His regime implemented conservative and nationalist policies, suppressing political dissent and censoring the press. International condemnation grew over human rights abuses during his rule. Papadopoulos was ousted in 1973 and later imprisoned following the restoration of democracy in 1974. He died in 1999, remembered as a controversial figure in modern Greek history.

Robert L. J. Long was born in 1920 and graduated from the United States Naval Academy. He served with distinction during World War II and the Vietnam War. As Commander of the Sixth Fleet from 1973 to 1975, he oversaw critical naval operations in the Mediterranean. Long later served as NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Atlantic, strengthening transatlantic military cooperation. Throughout his career, he received multiple honors, including the Legion of Merit. He retired in 1982 and passed away in 2002.

George Patton IV was born in 1923 and graduated from West Point in 1944. Following in his father’s footsteps, he served bravely in the Korean War. In Vietnam, he commanded the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, earning the Silver Star and Legion of Merit for his leadership. Patton later led the 3rd Armored Division and played key roles in Cold War readiness. Known for his tactical skill and dedication, he upheld the family legacy with honor. Patton retired in 1975 and passed away in 2004.

Ray Holmes was born in 1914 and joined the Royal Air Force in 1937. During the Battle of Britain on 15 September 1940, he famously collided with a German Dornier bomber to shield Buckingham Palace and central London. Despite serious injuries, Holmes survived after bailing out of his damaged Hurricane. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his courageous act. After the war, he served as a test pilot and continued flying until his retirement. Holmes passed away in 2005, and his daring deed remains an enduring symbol of ‘The Few’.

Sam Manekshaw (1914–2008) was born in Amritsar in British India and commissioned into the army in 1934. He distinguished himself in World War II and the Indo-Pakistani conflict of 1947–48 with exemplary bravery. As Chief of Army Staff in 1971, Manekshaw led Indian forces to a decisive victory in East Pakistan, leading to Bangladesh's creation. Known for his sharp wit, strategic acumen, and rapport with troops, he became the first Indian officer to attain the rank of Field Marshal. After retiring, he served as a respected military advisor and remained a public figure admired for his leadership. Manekshaw passed away in 2008, leaving a legacy as one of India's most revered military strategists.

Violet Milstead (1919–2014) was born in Winnipeg and developed a passion for flying early in life. During World War II, she joined the British Air Transport Auxiliary and ferried Spitfires and bombers across Britain. After the war, Milstead returned to Canada and became one of the country's first female bush pilots, operating in the remote North. She flew supplies, mail, and passengers to isolated communities, showcasing exceptional skill and courage. Milstead trained generations of pilots and was a founding member of Canada's Aviation Hall of Fame. Her pioneering career opened doors for women in aviation, earning her numerous honors before her death in 2014.