June 29

Harry Frazee was born in 1881 in Evanston, Illinois, and became a prominent Broadway producer and talent agent. In 1916, he purchased the Boston Red Sox to fund his theatrical ventures, making headlines by selling Babe Ruth to the New York Yankees in 1919 to cover debts. This transaction altered the course of baseball history and fueled the rival Yankees’ dynasty. Frazee later sold the team and returned fully to theater, producing hits on and off Broadway. He passed away in 1929, leaving a controversial legacy at the intersection of sports and entertainment.

Squizzy Taylor, born Joseph Thompson Taylor, became one of Melbourne's most infamous criminals. He led the Squizzy Taylor Gang, engaging in armed robbery, extortion, and violent heists in the 1910s and 1920s. Taylor's daring crimes and feuds with rival gangs captured public attention and sensational press coverage. His criminal career included bank robberies, horse thefts, and high-profile shootouts. In 1927 Taylor was killed in a police ambush, ending his reign and cementing his place in Australian criminal folklore. His life story remains a staple of Melbourne's underworld history.

Born in Smilde, Netherlands, Hendrikje van Andel-Schipper became the oldest known Dutch citizen at age 115. She gained global attention when recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's oldest living woman in November 2004. Her remarkable longevity attracted scientific research into aging and genetics. Van Andel-Schipper credited a positive outlook and simple lifestyle for her long life. She remained mentally sharp and active until days before her death in 2005 at age 115. Her health records continue to provide valuable insights for gerontology studies.

Nicole Russell, Duchess of Bedford, married John Russell, 13th Duke of Bedford, in 1941. She was known for her charitable work and patronage of various cultural institutions. A prolific hostess, she entertained dignitaries at Woburn Abbey and contributed to estate restorations. In 2012, she published her memoirs recounting life in the British aristocracy during the 20th century. Her elegance and social influence made her a notable figure in post-war Britain.

Brian Hutton, Baron Hutton, was a leading figure in the Northern Irish judiciary. He served as Lord Chief Justice of Northern Ireland from 1989 to 1997. Known for his legal acumen and commitment to impartiality, he presided over key cases during a tumultuous era. His tenure was marked by efforts to uphold the rule of law amid political unrest. Before his appointment, he built a reputation as a respected barrister and judge. Following his retirement, he was appointed to the House of Lords, contributing to legal debates at the national level.

Eddie Mabo campaigned tirelessly for recognition of Indigenous land rights in Australia. His 1992 High Court victory overturned the doctrine of terra nullius, acknowledging native title for the first time. Born on Mer Island in the Torres Strait, Mabo’s efforts reshaped Australian law and Indigenous relations. He founded the Mabo v Queensland case while working at James Cook University. Though he passed away shortly before the decision, his legacy endures through legal reforms. Mabo Day, celebrated on June 3, honors his groundbreaking contributions.

Born in Adelaide in 1942, Mike Willesee began his journalism career at age 16 and rose to prominence at the Nine Network. He hosted flagship programs such as 'A Current Affair' and conducted high-profile interviews with global leaders. Willesee's incisive style and investigative reports influenced Australian broadcast journalism. He later founded his own production company and continued to shape media discussions until his passing in 2019.

Craig Sager was an American sportscaster famous for his sideline reporting on NBA games with Turner Sports. He stood out for his vibrant suits and genuine rapport with players and coaches. Sager began his career covering college sports and joined TNT in 1998, becoming a fixture of NBA broadcasts. In 2016, he was honored with the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance after publicly battling leukemia. His legacy endures through his charismatic style and impact on sports journalism.

George D. Zamka is a retired U.S. Marine Corps colonel and NASA astronaut born on June 29, 1962. He flew as pilot on Space Shuttle mission STS-120 and commanded STS-130, contributing to the International Space Station assembly. Over his two flights, he logged more than 600 hours in space and participated in spacewalks. After retiring from NASA, he held leadership roles in aerospace development and advocates for STEM education. Zamka continues to inspire future generations of space explorers.