September 08

Arbogast was a Frankish-born general who rose to become magister militum under Emperor Valentinian II in the late 4th century. He wielded significant military and political power, at times overshadowing the young emperor. In 392, he orchestrated the rise and fall of the usurper Eugenius to maintain his own authority. Arbogast led Roman forces into battle against Theodosius I at the Battle of the Frigidus in 394. After his army's defeat, he died—his end marking a turning point in the Western Empire's decline. His career exemplifies the complex interactions between Roman and barbarian leaders.

Sir Simon Fraser was a leading Scottish nobleman and military commander during the Wars of Scottish Independence. A supporter of Robert the Bruce, he played a key role in early guerrilla engagements against English occupation. After the defeat at the Battle of Methven, he was captured by Edward I's forces and imprisoned. In 1306, he endured a brutal execution—hanged, drawn, and quartered—demonstrating English resolve to quash rebellion. Fraser's martyrdom galvanized Scottish resistance and cemented his legacy as a national hero. His life and death underscore the fierce struggle for Scotland's freedom.

Born in 1715 in Massachusetts, Williams served as a militia officer in colonial conflicts against the French and Native American forces. He fought at the siege of Louisbourg in 1745 and later commanded troops during the French and Indian War. Williams was killed at the Battle of Lake George in 1755 while defending frontier settlements. In his will, he left funds to establish a school for western Massachusetts youth. His endowment led to the founding of Williams College in 1793, named in his honor. His combination of military service and philanthropic vision left a lasting legacy in American education.

Born in 1736 in Andover, Massachusetts, Enoch Poor rose from a merchant to a brigadier general in the Continental Army. He fought at the Battle of Bunker Hill, where his leadership earned praise from George Washington. Poor played a key role in the Saratoga campaign of 1777, commanding a brigade that helped secure the crucial American victory. He continued his service at Valley Forge and the Battle of Monmouth, gaining a reputation for discipline and courage under fire. Despite declining health, he remained in service until his death in 1780, remembered as a dedicated officer of the Revolution.