September 03

John Montgomery was born in 1722 in colonial America and built a successful career as a merchant. Through his business ventures, he gained influence and became involved in local politics during the Revolutionary era. He held various public offices and advocated for economic development and trade policies. His dual roles bridged commerce and governance, reflecting the emerging American identity. Montgomery was known for his leadership in civic affairs and support for community institutions. He left a legacy as one of the early American figures who combined commercial acumen with public service.

John McLoughlin was born in 1784 in Canada and became a chief factor for the Hudson's Bay Company in the late 1820s. He played a key role in establishing Fort Vancouver and managing trade relations with indigenous peoples and American settlers. His fair treatment of pioneers earned him the title 'Father of Oregon' among early settlers. McLoughlin oversaw agricultural and commercial enterprises that contributed to the region's growth. After retiring, he continued to support local communities through philanthropy and civic engagement. His vision and leadership helped lay the economic foundations of the Pacific Northwest.

Robert E. Gross (1897–1961) was an American businessman and aviation pioneer. In 1929, he led a group of investors in acquiring the bankrupt Lockheed Aircraft Company, revitalizing it with innovative designs. Under his leadership as president and chairman, Lockheed produced iconic aircraft such as the Model 10 Electra and the P-38 Lightning fighter. Gross fostered a culture of engineering excellence and helped establish the United States as a leader in aerospace technology. During World War II, the company's military aircraft played a crucial role in Allied operations. His strategic vision laid the groundwork for Lockheed's postwar expansion and enduring prominence in the aerospace industry.

Francis Ouimet (1893–1967) was an American amateur golfer celebrated for his upset win at the 1913 U.S. Open at age 20. Defeating British champions Harry Vardon and Ted Ray at The Country Club in Brookline, his triumph ignited a nationwide golf boom. After his playing career, he worked as a banker and served as president of the USGA, influencing the sport's administration. A two-time U.S. Amateur champion, Ouimet was posthumously inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame. His legacy is honored annually through the Francis Ouimet Memorial Tournament for junior golfers.

Born in 1904 in Huddersfield, Sir David Brown took over his family’s engineering firm and expanded into gear manufacturing and agricultural machinery. In 1947, he acquired Aston Martin and introduced legendary models such as the DB2 and DB5, cementing the marque’s reputation for luxury and performance. Brown also owned Lagonda, where he developed high-performance engines for both racing and road cars. Knighted in 1968 for his contributions to industry, he retired in 1972 but left behind a transformative legacy in British automotive design. Upon his death in 1993, his initials 'DB' continued as a hallmark of sporting excellence in the automotive world.

James T. Aubrey Jr. was an influential American television and film executive who left his mark on both industries. He rose through the ranks at CBS Television, becoming network president in 1964 at the age of 45 and guiding the network to top ratings. In 1969, he joined MGM as head of production and television, overseeing the greenlighting of films and series that reshaped studio output. Known for his decisive leadership and sometimes controversial management style, he played a pivotal role in shaping programming during the golden age of television. After departing MGM, he cautioned against excessive spending in Hollywood. Aubrey’s career exemplified the power of network executives in mid-20th-century entertainment. He passed away in 1994, remembered as a bold pioneer in broadcast and film management.

W. Clement Stone (1902–2002) was an American businessman and philanthropist best known for founding Combined Insurance Company of America and co-authoring the best-selling self-help book Success Through a Positive Mental Attitude. Born into poverty, Stone built a vast insurance empire and promoted the philosophy of optimism and personal responsibility. Throughout his life, he donated millions to education, medical research, and youth programs. Stone collaborated with Napoleon Hill and delivered motivational speeches worldwide. His blend of business acumen and charitable work made him an enduring figure in American entrepreneurship and self-improvement movements.

Rudolf Leiding (1914–2003) was a German engineer and businessman who served as chairman of Volkswagen AG from 1968 to 1971. He oversaw the development and launch of the Volkswagen Type 2 'Bay Window' bus and helped maintain the production of the iconic Beetle. Leiding stabilized the company's finances after the state takeover and introduced modern manufacturing techniques to improve efficiency. His leadership transformed Volkswagen into a global automotive powerhouse. After retiring, he continued to advise the industry, leaving a legacy of innovation and managerial excellence.

Sun Myung Moon (1920–2012) was a Korean religious leader and entrepreneur best known for founding the Unification Church in 1954. He led his followers around the world through large-scale evangelism, peace initiatives, and mass wedding ceremonies. Under his leadership, the movement established businesses, media outlets, and academic institutions across multiple countries. Moon was a polarizing figure, praised by supporters for his spiritual vision and criticized by others for his unorthodox beliefs. His efforts in interfaith dialogue and anti-communism activism garnered international attention. Moon's multifaceted legacy continues through the organizations and communities he created.

Born in 1929, Adrian Cadbury first gained distinction as a competitive rower. He later transitioned into the Cadbury family business, where he applied the discipline of sports to management. He played a key role in developing modern corporate governance practices focused on accountability. Cadbury's leadership emphasized ethical standards and transparency in business operations. His dual legacy in sports and corporate leadership continues to inspire professionals across fields. He passed away in 2015 at the age of 85.

Born in 1971, Carter Lay pursued a successful career in business while actively supporting charitable initiatives. He contributed to organizations focused on education, health, and social welfare. Lay's philanthropic efforts aimed to create lasting impact in local communities. Colleagues remembered him for combining professional acumen with a commitment to giving back. His work in both business and charity earned him respect across sectors. He passed away in 2015, leaving behind a legacy of generosity.