August 13

Sigizmund Levanevsky was a Soviet aviator of Polish descent known for his pioneering work in polar aviation. Born in 1902, he joined the USSR's polar aviation service and set multiple records for long-range flights over frozen Arctic regions. He gained acclaim for attempting transpolar flights that aimed to connect Moscow with North America by way of the North Pole. In 1937, Levanevsky disappeared during one such expedition over the Arctic ice, becoming a symbol of bravery and the perils of early aviation. His efforts advanced the Soviet Union's aeronautical capabilities and inspired future generations of pilots and explorers. He remains remembered as a heroic figure in the history of polar flight.

James Roosevelt was a U.S. Marine Corps general who served with distinction in World War II, earning two Silver Stars. After his military service, he held various roles in public administration and succeeded his father’s legacy in politics. He served eight terms as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives for California, focusing on veterans’ benefits. Roosevelt championed social welfare programs and infrastructure development during his congressional career. He also worked in executive positions within the Department of Housing and Urban Development. As the eldest son of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, his life bridged military, political, and public service traditions.

He was born in 1910 and pursued a distinguished military career in the Portuguese Army. As Governor of Guinea-Bissau, he advocated for decolonization and political reform. In April 1974, he led the military faction that initiated the Carnation Revolution to overthrow the Estado Novo regime. Following the revolution, he was appointed as Portugal's President from May to September 1974. His brief tenure highlighted deep divides between military and civilian authorities during the transition to democracy. After leaving office, he remained an influential commentator and authored several memoirs on Portugal's political evolution.