July 17

Born around 1015 in Normandy, Robert Guiscard journeyed to southern Italy in pursuit of fortune alongside his brothers. Recognized by Pope Nicholas II in 1059, he was invested as Duke of Apulia and Calabria, legitimizing his conquests. His resourceful tactics and political acumen earned him the nickname 'Guiscard', meaning 'the cunning'. Guiscard successfully campaigned against Byzantine territories and Muslim strongholds, expanding Norman influence across the Mediterranean. He founded the Principality of Salerno and secured Palermo before his death. Robert Guiscard died on July 17, 1085, during the siege of Dyrrachium, leaving a lasting legacy in southern Italy.

John Talbot, 1st Earl of Shrewsbury, was one of England's most renowned military commanders during the Hundred Years' War. He served under Kings Henry V and Henry VI, earning a reputation as the English Achilles for his battlefield prowess. Talbot achieved significant victories at battles such as Cravant and Verneuil, becoming a symbol of English resistance in France. He was also an influential statesman and held the earldom of Shrewsbury, playing a key role in court politics. Talbot met his end at the Battle of Castillon in 1453, marking the end of English dominance in the Hundred Years' War. His legacy endures in medieval military history and literature.

Hosokawa Takakuni was a prominent samurai and daimyo during Japan's Sengoku period. As head of the Hosokawa clan, he wielded significant influence over the Ashikaga shogunate in Kyoto. Takakuni navigated complex alliances and rivalries, including conflicts with the Miyoshi clan and other regional powers. He served as kanrei (deputy shogun) and played a pivotal role in court politics, often shifting loyalties for strategic gain. His rule ended in 1531 when he was defeated and killed, leaving a legacy of ambition and intrigue in feudal Japan.

William, Count of Nassau-Siegen, was a member of the House of Nassau and a prominent military leader. He served as field marshal for the Dutch States Army, fighting in key campaigns of the Thirty Years' War. William earned respect for his tactical skill and leadership in battles across the Holy Roman Empire. He also governed the city of Breda and held several important administrative positions in the Dutch Republic. His career reflected the close ties between German nobility and the military efforts of Protestant states.

Thomas King began his career in the British Army, rising through the ranks to become a respected officer. He represented the constituency of Queenborough in Parliament, advocating for military and naval interests. As lieutenant-governor of Sheerness, he oversaw the defense of this key naval dockyard on the River Medway. King was known for his administrative skills and commitment to strengthening Britain's coastal fortifications. He maintained close ties with senior military figures and played a role in local governance during a period of frequent conflict in Europe.

Álvaro Obregón (1880–1928) was a key leader of the Mexican Revolution and a skilled military strategist. He orchestrated the Plan of Agua Prieta, leading to the overthrow of President Carranza. As President, Obregón introduced land reforms, promoted public education, and stabilized the national economy. He negotiated the Bucareli Treaty with the United States to secure recognition and protect Mexican interests. His presidency laid the groundwork for the Institutional Revolutionary Party that dominated Mexican politics for decades. Obregón was assassinated shortly after his election to a second term.

Ernst Busch (1885–1945) was a career military officer who served in both World Wars. He rose through the ranks to become a Field Marshal in the Wehrmacht. During World War II, Busch commanded armies on the brutal Eastern Front. He was involved in major operations against Soviet forces, demonstrating tactical skill. Busch’s leadership was marked by both discipline and controversy in wartime decisions. He died in 1945 as the conflict drew to a close.

Draža Mihailović (1893–1946) served in the Royal Yugoslav Army during World War I and II. He became the Supreme Commander of the Chetnik guerrilla forces resisting Axis occupation. Mihailović initially allied with the Allies but faced accusations of collaboration as the war progressed. After the war, he was captured by Yugoslav authorities and tried in a highly controversial trial. He was convicted of war crimes and executed in 1946, leaving a complex legacy in the Balkans.

Forrest S. McCartney dedicated over 30 years to the United States Air Force, culminating in his appointment as Director of NASA's Kennedy Space Center from 1986 to 1991. In this role, he oversaw Space Shuttle launch operations and facility upgrades, playing a key part in America's human spaceflight program. Prior to his NASA tenure, he commanded missile and space-launch units, focusing on reliability and safety improvements. McCartney's strategic vision helped streamline launch processes and accelerate mission readiness. After retiring, he served as a consultant to aerospace organizations and government agencies, sharing his expertise. His contributions significantly advanced the United States' position in space exploration and defense.

Ian Gourlay was a distinguished officer in the Royal Armoured Corps who served over three decades in the British Army. He rose through the ranks to command armoured divisions stationed in Germany, playing a vital role in NATO’s defence strategy during the Cold War. Gourlay also held senior staff appointments, shaping military doctrine and interoperability among allied forces. Knighted for his service, he received numerous honours before retiring in the late 1970s. After his military career, he remained active in regimental associations and contributed to historical studies on armoured warfare. His leadership and expertise left a lasting impact on Britain’s armoured capabilities.

Henry 'Hank' Hartsfield was commissioned in the U.S. Air Force before being selected as a NASA astronaut in 1978. He served as pilot on STS-4 in 1982 and commanded the maiden flight STS-41-D in 1984, contributing to satellite deployments and shuttle system testing. Hartsfield logged over 300 hours in space and received the NASA Distinguished Service Medal along with multiple military decorations. After retiring from NASA in 1990, he held leadership roles in aerospace management and continued to advocate for space exploration. His pioneering work during the Shuttle era helped pave the way for future missions and scientific discoveries.