July 18

Machine Gun Kelly, born George Kelly Barnes in 1895, became one of America’s most notorious gangsters during the Prohibition era. He gained his nickname after threatening a federal agent with his Thompson submachine gun. Kelly led a criminal gang responsible for bank robberies, kidnappings, and bootlegging operations across the Midwest. His most infamous crime was the 1933 kidnapping of oil tycoon Charles Urschel, which led to a landmark FBI investigation. Convicted by federal authorities, Kelly spent the remainder of his life in Alcatraz Prison, where he died in 1954. His story has been immortalized in books, films, and folklore as a symbol of 1930s gangster culture.

Mary Jo Kopechne was an American educator and secretary born in 1940 who worked on Senator Robert F. Kennedy’s 1968 presidential campaign. After the senator’s assassination, she continued her career as a teacher and government staffer, earning respect for her dedication and organizational skills. Kopechne died in 1969 under controversial circumstances following a car accident involving Senator Ted Kennedy at Chappaquiddick Island. Her death sparked a nationwide debate on political accountability and the legal responsibilities of public figures. Despite her brief public profile, she is remembered for her commitment to education and her role in one of America’s most enduring political mysteries. Kopechne’s legacy endures through scholarship foundations and ongoing discussions about ethics in politics.

Sonja Branting-Westerståhl was a trailblazing Swedish lawyer and politician, among the first women to practice law in Sweden. As the daughter of Prime Minister Hjalmar Branting, she leveraged her legal expertise and social standing to advocate for social justice, labor rights, and gender equality. Elected to the Stockholm City Council, she worked tirelessly to improve living conditions for working-class families and expand opportunities for women in professional fields. Branting-Westerståhl also authored influential writings on legal reform and civic engagement, leaving a lasting impact on Swedish society and paving the way for future generations of female legal professionals.

Metin Toker was born in Bursa in 1924 and embarked on a distinguished career in journalism. He wrote for leading newspapers such as Cumhuriyet and Milliyet, earning acclaim for his sharp political insight. Toker authored several books on Turkish political history and key public figures, enriching the nation's historical record. His eloquent style and fearless reporting inspired generations of Turkish journalists. He remained active in the press until his death in 2002, leaving a legacy of integrity and scholarship.

Adrian Cronauer (1938–2018) served as a U.S. Air Force radio DJ during the Vietnam War, where his unconventional broadcasts boosted troop morale with humor and music. His service became the basis for the 1987 film 'Good Morning, Vietnam,' starring Robin Williams. After his military career, Cronauer worked in broadcasting, law, and consulting, advocating for veterans’ rights. He lectured on his wartime experiences and the importance of media in shaping public perception. Cronauer’s legacy highlights the power of voice and humor in times of conflict.

Lou Dobbs (1945-2024) was an American political commentator and television host. He began his broadcasting career at CNN in 1980 as a business news anchor. In 1995, he launched the influential program 'Lou Dobbs Tonight' on CNN, which he later revived on Fox Business Network in 2011. Known for his outspoken views on immigration and economic policy, he developed a large conservative audience and sparked national debates. Dobbs authored several books on economic issues and received awards for his journalism.