August 06

Tjerk Hiddes de Vries (1622–1666) was a distinguished officer of the Dutch navy renowned for his bravery and tactical skill. He rose through the ranks and commanded squadrons during the First Anglo-Dutch War, earning recognition at the Battle of Scheveningen. Later he served in the Northern Wars against Sweden, securing key victories in the Baltic Sea. Known for his resilient leadership and seamanship, De Vries was mortally wounded in action during the Battle of Vågen. His legacy lived on as a symbol of Dutch naval prowess in the 17th century.

Claude de Forbin was a prominent French naval officer in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. He began his career in the French East India Company and quickly gained fame for his bold raids on enemy ships. Forbin served under King Louis XIV and took part in major naval battles against the Dutch and English. He later held command posts in Asia, including Macau and Bengal, where his daring exploits became legendary. Forbin was known for his charismatic leadership and innovative tactics at sea. His memoirs detail his adventurous life and various diplomatic missions. He died in 1733 after a distinguished career that left a lasting mark on French naval history.

Petros Mavromichalis, known as Petrobey, was a key figure in the Greek War of Independence, born in 1765. He hailed from a powerful Maniot family and led guerrilla campaigns against Ottoman rule. After Greece achieved independence, Mavromichalis entered politics and became the country’s second Prime Minister in 1833. He worked to stabilize the fledgling Greek state and navigated conflicts between regional governors and the central government. His leadership combined military experience with diplomatic efforts to unify the nation. Mavromichalis was also involved in local governance in the Peloponnese, promoting infrastructure and public order. He remained influential in Greek affairs until his death in 1848. His legacy endures as a founding father of modern Greece.

Jean-Baptiste Bessières was a French military commander born in 1768 who rose to the rank of Marshal of the Empire under Napoleon. He began his career in the cavalry during the French Revolutionary Wars and distinguished himself in Italy and Egypt. Bessières was renowned for his bravery and leadership at key battles such as Austerlitz and Eylau. As commander of the Guard Cavalry, he became one of Napoleon’s most trusted generals. He also held political roles and was made a Senator of the Empire. Bessières was wounded multiple times but remained loyal throughout the Napoleonic campaigns. He died in 1813 from injuries sustained during the German Campaign. His dedication and tactical skill made him a legendary figure in French military history.

George Kenney was a Canadian-American general born in 1889. As commander of the U.S. Fifth Air Force, he directed key air campaigns in the Southwest Pacific. He was instrumental in developing tactics that supported the island-hopping strategy. Later, he served as commander of the Far East Air Forces during the occupation of Japan. Kenney received numerous honors for his leadership and innovative aerial strategies. His contributions significantly shaped Allied air power in the Pacific theater.

William Slim, 1st Viscount Slim, was a distinguished British field marshal born in 1891. He commanded the Fourteenth Army in Burma, reversing Japanese advances during World War II. Slim's leadership and innovative tactics were pivotal to Allied success in the Southeast Asian theater. After the war, he served as Chief of the Imperial General Staff before transitioning to politics. From 1953 to 1960, he acted as the thirteenth Governor-General of Australia, representing the Crown. He is celebrated as one of Britain’s greatest military commanders and a respected statesman.

After serving as a soldier, Anthony published his first novel in the late 1960s. He gained widespread acclaim with the humorous and imaginative world of Xanth, a series that blends fantasy, wordplay, and adventure. Over his career, he has written dozens of novels across science fiction and fantasy genres. His works are notable for their playful use of puns and engaging storytelling. Anthony remains a popular figure in genre fiction, with a loyal readership around the world.

Boston starred for both Wigan and the Great Britain national team during the 1950s and 1960s, earning acclaim for his speed and power. He scored hundreds of tries, breaking numerous club and international records. His athleticism and determination made him a fan favorite and a key figure in rugby league history. After retiring as a player, he remained involved in coaching and community sports. Boston's legacy continues to be honored by rugby fans and organizations worldwide.

Charles Ingram is an English former Army major born in 1963. He served in the British Army before turning to writing and media appearances. In 2001, he became infamous for the 'Coughing Major' scandal on 'Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?' Accused of cheating by using cough signals to win the top prize, he was convicted and fined. Ingram later wrote the memoir 'Bad Show: The Quiz, the Cough, the Millionaire Major.' His story inspired adaptations including a stage play and dramatized television portrayals.