July 11

Born around 1503 into a noble Danish family, Peder Skram rose through the ranks to become a leading admiral for King Christian III. He secured key victories at sea during the Northern Seven Years’ War against Swedish forces, demonstrating innovative naval tactics. Skram also held political office, advising the Danish crown and serving on the privy council. His contributions to naval engineering improved ship design and Denmark’s maritime strength. After retiring from service, he maintained influence in Danish politics until his death in 1581.

Born into the Chōsokabe clan in 1539, Motochika seized control of Tosa Province and expanded his power across Shikoku in the 1570s. Through strategic alliances and military prowess, he overcame rival warlords to become the island’s dominant ruler. In 1585, facing Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s unification campaign, Motochika negotiated terms that preserved his status by swearing loyalty to Hideyoshi. He governed his domain with a focus on agriculture and castle building, notably enhancing Okō Castle. Motochika died in 1599, leaving a lasting legacy in Kochi Prefecture and Japanese feudal history.

Born in Ireland in 1715, William Johnson emigrated to New York in 1738 and cultivated strong ties with the Mohawk people, earning the name Warraghiyagey. As Superintendent of Indian Affairs from 1755, he negotiated alliances that proved crucial in the French and Indian War, notably at the Battle of Lake George. Johnson built Johnson Hall in Johnstown, New York, as his family seat and administrative center. He was created a baronet in 1755 for his military and diplomatic achievements. Johnson’s legacy includes his unique role in colonial-Native American relations and his influence on early American frontier policy.

Thomas P. Grosvenor was born in 1744 and served in the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. After the war, he pursued a career in law and entered politics in New York. Grosvenor was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, where he championed veterans' rights and western land policies. He balanced military discipline with legislative skill, earning respect on both the battlefield and in Congress. His contributions helped shape the young nation's legal and political landscape.

Eugene P. Wilkinson (1918–2013) was the first commanding officer of USS Nautilus, the world's first nuclear-powered submarine. Under his leadership, Nautilus completed Operation Sunshine, the first submarine transit under the North Pole. He later served as Commander of the Submarine Force, U.S. Atlantic Fleet, advancing undersea warfare strategy. Wilkinson advised government leaders on nuclear propulsion and maritime defense during the Cold War. His career spanned over four decades, earning him numerous commendations for innovation and leadership. He retired from the Navy after a distinguished tenure, leaving a lasting mark on submarine operations.