October 10

Adela of Ponthieu (died 1174) was a French noblewoman and heiress, the daughter of Hugh II of Ponthieu. Around 1138, she married William de Warenne, 3rd Earl of Surrey, becoming an influential landowner in both Normandy and England. Adela managed extensive estates, oversaw feudal obligations, and acted as a patron to religious institutions, including the priory at Lewes. Her marriage strengthened ties between French and Anglo-Norman nobility, and her descendants continued to play prominent roles in medieval politics. She died on October 10, 1174, leaving a legacy of administrative acumen and charitable works. Historical records commend her leadership and contributions to regional stability.

Born in Auckland in 1884, Northcroft studied law before enlisting in the New Zealand Expeditionary Force during World War I. He served with distinction in the Gallipoli campaign and on the Western Front, rising to the rank of major general during World War II. After his military career, he was appointed judge of the Supreme Court of New Zealand and later served on the Court of Appeal. He presided over several significant legal cases, including post-war tribunals addressing war crimes. His dual legacy in military command and legal jurisprudence marked him as a notable figure in New Zealand's history. He died in 1953.

Born in 1881 in Roubaix, France, Thuliez trained as a teacher before joining the Belgian resistance in World War I. She co-led an escape network that smuggled Allied soldiers out of occupied territory and was arrested and imprisoned in 1915. After her release in a prisoner exchange, she resumed teaching and continued clandestine activities. When World War II broke out, she again supported resistance efforts by aiding downed airmen and Jewish refugees. In her later years, she wrote memoirs recounting her wartime experiences and was honored with the Croix de Guerre. Thuliez died in 1966, remembered as a courageous heroine and witness to history.

Born in 1908, Jean Effel studied at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris before embarking on a career in journalism and illustration. He became known for his satirical cartoons in leading French newspapers, where his playful drawings critiqued contemporary society. Effel published several illustrated books that combined art and wit, earning acclaim for their delightful charm. His paintings, exhibited in galleries across France, displayed the same expressive style found in his cartoons. Jean Effel's unique blend of fine art and journalism left an enduring mark on 20th-century French culture.

Orson Welles emerged as a prodigy in theatre and radio, famously directing and starring in the 1938 broadcast of The War of the Worlds. In 1941, he co-wrote, produced, and directed Citizen Kane, widely regarded as one of the greatest films ever made. His innovative techniques in cinematography and storytelling have influenced countless filmmakers. Welles continued to work across film, theatre, and radio, often championing artistic freedom. His prolific career in acting, directing, producing, and writing left a profound legacy in multiple artistic fields.

Tom Murton was born in 1928 and became a leading expert in penology and prison administration. In the late 1960s, he was appointed to oversee Arkansas penitentiaries, where he uncovered corruption and inhumane conditions. His exposé of prison abuses in a bestselling book ignited public demand for reform. Murton's advocacy led to policy changes aimed at improving transparency and human rights in corrections. He continued teaching and consulting on criminal justice issues, leaving a legacy as a tireless defender of inmates’ rights.

Ed Nimmervoll was an influential music journalist and historian in Australia. Born in Austria, he emigrated to Australia as a child and developed a passion for rock music. He co-founded the music magazines Juke and Rock Australia Magazine in the 1970s. Nimmervoll authored definitive books on the history of Australian rock and pop. He was honored for his contributions to music journalism with industry awards.

Sybil Stockdale helped establish the National League of Families during the Vietnam War era. She advocated tirelessly for the rights and welfare of American service members missing in Southeast Asia. Her leadership brought national attention to the plight of prisoners of war and their families. Stockdale worked closely with government officials to improve communication and support for affected households. Her efforts set a precedent for volunteer advocacy organizations assisting military families.

Ethel Kennedy dedicated her life to philanthropy following the assassination of her husband, Robert F. Kennedy. She established and chaired the Robert F. Kennedy Center for Justice and Human Rights. Under her leadership, the Center promoted social justice, civil rights, and human dignity worldwide. Kennedy supported numerous initiatives in education, poverty alleviation, and community development. Her tireless advocacy has inspired successive generations to pursue peace and equity.