September 16

Walter Devereux, 1st Earl of Essex (1541–1576), was a favorite of Queen Elizabeth I and an ambitious nobleman. He led military expeditions in France and spearheaded early English plantations in Ulster. His strategic vision faced fierce resistance from Irish chieftains, and he died of dysentery during a campaign. His ventures set the stage for future English influence in Ireland.

Gabriel Christie was a Scottish-born military officer who joined the British army and served during the Seven Years' War and American Revolutionary conflicts. He commanded troops in the defense of Canada against American forces and was instrumental in several key engagements. After retiring from active service, Christie became a prominent landowner and militia leader in Quebec, investing in agriculture and local development. His extensive land holdings and military reputation made him an influential figure in early Canadian society. Christie was known for his leadership skills and commitment to colonial security. He died in 1799, leaving a significant legacy in Canadian military and civic history.

Mikhail Kutuzov was a Russian military commander best known for leading the Russian army against Napoleon's Grande Armée in the Patriotic War of 1812. He employed strategic retreats and scorched-earth tactics to weaken the invaders, culminating in the decisive Battle of Borodino. Kutuzov's decision to abandon Moscow spared the remaining Russian forces to harass and ultimately expel the French troops. After the campaign, he was instrumental in the liberation of Europe from Napoleonic rule. Kutuzov's leadership and understanding of national defense made him a national hero in Russia. He served as Minister of War and was later honored with numerous medals and monuments.

Yuan Shikai was a prominent Chinese military officer and statesman who rose to power during the late Qing dynasty. He modernized China's Beiyang Army and held key posts in the imperial government. After the 1911 Xinhai Revolution, he negotiated the abdication of the last Qing emperor and proclaimed the Republic of China. In 1912, he assumed the presidency but soon sought to consolidate autocratic rule. Yuan declared himself emperor in 1915, provoking widespread opposition and regional uprisings. He died in 1916, and his struggle for power ushered in an era of warlordism in China.

Born in Hamburg in 1891, Karl Dönitz joined the Imperial German Navy and became a celebrated U-boat commander during World War I. Between the wars he rose through the ranks and in 1943 was appointed commander of the Kriegsmarine's U-boat arm, pioneering wolfpack tactics that challenged Allied shipping. In the final days of World War II, Hitler named him his successor, making him President of Germany for 23 days. At the Nuremberg Trials he was convicted of war crimes and served ten years in prison. After his release he lived quietly in Schleswig-Holstein until his death in 1980.

He served in the British commandos and was a skilled archer, earning the nickname 'Mad Jack'. Churchill led raids in Italy and occupied France armed with medieval weapons. He is the only British soldier recorded to have killed an enemy with a longbow during WWII. After the war, he helped establish the Israeli Army as an advisor. He authored books recounting his adventures and remained a colorful military figure until his death in 1996.

He joined the SS in 1931 and served as Hitler's personal driver from 1934 to 1945. He was present in the Führerbunker in Berlin during the final days of World War II. On April 30, 1945, he drove Hitler and Eva Braun in the canceled attempt to escape the bunker. After the war, he was captured by Allied forces and released in 1952. He published memoirs detailing his experiences with the Nazi leadership and died in 1975.

Staryl C. Austin served with distinction in the United States Air Force, rising through the ranks to hold senior leadership roles during the Cold War era. His career spanned strategic planning, squadron command, and contributions to air defense strategy. Austin's expertise helped shape Air Force policies and training programs. He was recognized for his leadership acumen and commitment to service. Upon retirement, he remained active in veterans' affairs and military history organizations.

Born in Monsey, New York, Ball graduated from Villanova University with a degree in business administration before commissioning in the U.S. Army Reserve. He served a deployment in Iraq, where he lost his right arm in 2005, earning recognition for his courage. In 2008, Ball was elected to the New York State Assembly, representing parts of Orange and Rockland counties. During his tenure, he advocated for veterans' issues, public safety measures, and economic development. Ball authored a memoir recounting his military and political experiences. His dedication to service highlights his commitment to both his country and his constituents.