September 17

Born in 1730 in Prussia, Friedrich Wilhelm von Steuben served in the Prussian army before volunteering to assist the American revolutionaries. Arriving at Valley Forge in 1778, he introduced rigorous drilling methods and organizational principles that transformed the Continental Army into a disciplined fighting force. As Inspector General, he authored the army's first drill manual known as the Blue Book, standardizing training procedures. His leadership and reforms were instrumental in sustaining the Continental Army through harsh conditions and achieving strategic victories. After the war, he continued to serve the United States, receiving citizenship and land grants in recognition of his contributions. Von Steuben's legacy endures as a foundational figure in American military history.

Born in 1773 in New Jersey, Jonathan Alder was captured by Wyandot Indians at age nine and lived with them for twelve years before returning to settler society. He became a respected farmer in Ohio and built strong ties with both Native and settler communities. During the War of 1812, Alder served as a militia captain in the Ohio volunteers, defending settlements against British and Native American forces. After the war, he continued farming and helped establish communities in Champaign County. His life story offers a unique window into early American frontier history and cultural exchange.

Born in 1783 into a noble Russian family, Nadezhda Durova defied gender norms by joining the cavalry under the pseudonym Alexander Sokolov. She distinguished herself during the Napoleonic Wars, earning the Cross of St George for bravery in battle. After her identity was revealed, Tsar Alexander I allowed her to continue serving and promoted her to lieutenant. Durova documented her experiences in The Cavalry Maiden, one of the earliest memoirs by a female soldier. Her memoir provides rare insights into military life and the challenges faced by a woman in combat. Durova's courage and literary legacy inspired future generations of women seeking military roles.

Born in 1819 in Graaff-Reinet, Cape Colony, Marthinus Wessel Pretorius was the son of pioneer leader Andries Pretorius. He emerged as a military commander during the Great Trek, leading Boer forces in conflicts with indigenous groups. Pretorius played a central role in founding the town of Pretoria in honor of his father. In 1857, he was elected the first President of the independent South African Republic, focusing on diplomatic recognition and infrastructure development. He later served as State President of the Orange Free State, advocating cooperation between Boer territories. Pretorius died in 1901, leaving an enduring imprint on South African political geography and governance.

Earl Van Dorn graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1842 and served with distinction in the Mexican-American War. During the Civil War, he was appointed a Confederate general and led forces in Arkansas and Mississippi. He earned a reputation for daring cavalry raids and aggressive tactics against Union positions. Despite his tactical boldness, he faced criticism for discipline and logistical issues within his command. Van Dorn’s career ended abruptly in 1863 when he died under controversial circumstances.

Frederick Corbett served in the British Army during imperial campaigns of the late 19th century. He was awarded the Victoria Cross for demonstrating remarkable courage under heavy enemy fire. Corbett’s act of gallantry involved risking his own life to protect and rescue wounded comrades. The Victoria Cross remains the highest military decoration for valor in the British honors system. He retired with the respect and admiration of his fellow officers.

James Tancred was born in 1864 and embarked on a naval career that spanned over four decades. He held several command positions, overseeing warships during a period of rapid technological change in naval warfare. Tancred contributed to the development of naval strategy and training within the Royal Navy. His leadership was recognized in both peacetime exercises and strategic planning ahead of World War I. After retiring, he remained engaged with naval affairs until his death in 1943, leaving a legacy of service during a transformative period for the fleet.

Alfred Carpenter was born in 1881 and joined the Royal Navy, rising through the ranks to become an admiral. During World War I, he was awarded the Victoria Cross for leading his ship under heavy fire in a daring operation. His gallantry and leadership earned him recognition as one of the Navy’s most courageous officers. After the war, Carpenter held senior commands and served as Admiral Superintendent of key naval dockyards. He was influential in post-war naval policy and training before retiring in 1943. Carpenter died in 1955, remembered for his heroism and lasting impact on the Royal Navy.

Anton Irv was born in 1886 in Viljandi and served as an officer in the Imperial Russian Army during World War I. He returned to Estonia and became a leading cavalry commander in the Estonian War of Independence, noted for his bold tactics. Irv led his regiment in key battles against Bolshevik forces, earning a reputation for courage and strategy. He received Estonia’s Cross of Liberty for his wartime leadership and dedication to national defense. Irv was killed in action in 1919, but his efforts helped secure Estonia’s independence. His legacy is honored with monuments and commemorations in Estonia.

Born in Belfast in 1918 into a family noted for its legal and rabbinical heritage, Herzog served in the British Army during World War II before joining the Israel Defense Forces and rising to the rank of major general. He played a key intelligence role during the Six-Day War and later became Israel's Ambassador to the United Nations from 1975 to 1978. In 1983 he was elected the sixth President of Israel, serving two terms until 1993, where he was known for his eloquent speeches and efforts to promote peace and national unity. After leaving office, Herzog authored books on military history, served as a legal scholar and advocated for cultural and educational initiatives in Israel. He died in 1997, remembered as a statesman who shaped Israel's formative decades.

David Craig, Baron Craig of Radley, is a Northern Irish air marshal and life peer who served as Chief of the Air Staff from 1985 to 1988. He began his RAF career as a fighter pilot and rose through the ranks to become one of the most respected officers in the service. After retiring from the Royal Air Force, he was appointed to the House of Lords, where he contributed to defense and security debates. He has been honored with numerous decorations including the Order of the Bath and the Order of the British Empire. His leadership and strategic vision have left a lasting impact on the Royal Air Force and UK defense policy.

Edgar Mitchell was an American naval officer, aviator, and NASA astronaut who walked on the Moon during Apollo 14. He served as the lunar module pilot in 1971, spending over nine hours exploring the lunar surface. Mitchell conducted scientific experiments on the Moon and collected rock samples that enriched planetary science. After retiring from NASA, he founded the Institute of Noetic Sciences to study consciousness and human potential. He accumulated over 5,000 flight hours as a pilot and held the rank of captain in the U.S. Navy. His achievements bridged exploration, science, and the study of human awareness.