August 12

Albert Bartha was born in Hungary in 1877 and served as a general in the Austro-Hungarian Army during World War I. In the postwar period, he became involved in national politics and the reorganization of Hungary's military. Bartha was appointed Minister of Defence in the 1920s, where he implemented key military reforms. He played a significant role in shaping Hungary's interwar defense policies and national security. Bartha retired from public life after 1930 but remained a respected figure in Hungarian military circles.

Bruce Matthews (1909–1991) was a senior officer in the Canadian Army who achieved the rank of General after distinguished service in mid-20th century conflicts. He held key command and staff positions, contributing to Canada’s defense strategy during the Cold War. After leaving the military, Matthews transitioned to the business world, serving as an executive and board member for several corporations. He was recognized for his leadership abilities both in uniform and in the boardroom and received military honors for his service. He remained active in veterans’ affairs until his death in 1991.

Born in 1916, Ioan Dicezare became one of Romania's most celebrated fighter pilots during World War II. He flew numerous combat missions with the Royal Romanian Air Force, achieving several aerial victories against enemy aircraft. After the war, Dicezare rose through the ranks to become a General, overseeing training programs and modernization efforts in the Romanian Air Force. His leadership style combined tactical skill with a deep commitment to mentoring younger pilots. Dicezare remained active in aviation circles for decades, sharing his experiences through lectures and memoirs. He passed away in 2012, leaving a legacy as a pioneering figure in Romanian military aviation.

Born in 1918, Wing Commander Guy Gibson became one of the Royal Air Force's most celebrated officers during World War II. He commanded No. 617 Squadron, leading the daring Operation Chastise—famously known as the "Dambusters" raid—against German dams in 1943. Gibson's leadership and bravery earned him the Victoria Cross, the highest military decoration for gallantry. He developed innovative low-level bombing tactics that had a lasting influence on aerial warfare. Tragically, he was killed in action in 1944 while on a mission over Germany. Gibson's exploits remain emblematic of courage and ingenuity in military history.

Panagiotis Chinofotis (born 1949) is a retired admiral of the Hellenic Navy who transitioned into Greek politics after a distinguished military career. A graduate of the Hellenic Naval Academy, he held command positions on various vessels and naval commands before being appointed Chief of the Navy General Staff in 2005. During his tenure, Chinofotis focused on modernizing naval capabilities and strengthening Greece’s maritime defenses. After retiring from active service, he was elected to the Hellenic Parliament and served as Minister for Citizen Protection, overseeing internal security and public safety. His leadership in both military and civilian roles reflects a commitment to national defense and governance. Chinofotis remains a respected figure in Greece’s defense and political spheres.

Tobias Ellwood is a British Conservative politician and former Army Reserve officer born on 12 August 1966. He was commissioned as a captain in the Parachute Regiment of the British Army Reserve. Ellwood was first elected MP for Bournemouth East in 2005 and has held various ministerial roles, including Parliamentary Under-Secretary for Defence Veterans. He has been recognized for his expertise in security policy and advocacy for veterans’ welfare. In 2017, Ellwood showed leadership during the Westminster Bridge attack, providing aid to the injured until medical assistance arrived. He continues to represent his constituents in Parliament and champion community and charitable initiatives.