October 12

Kutsuki Mototsuna (1549-1632) was a samurai daimyō active during Japan's Sengoku and early Edo periods. Initially serving Oda Nobunaga, he later fought under Toyotomi Hideyoshi against regional rivals. After the Battle of Sekigahara, he aligned with Tokugawa Ieyasu and retained his domain in Omi Province. Renowned for his loyalty and strategic skill, Mototsuna navigated shifting allegiances in one of Japan's most turbulent eras.

François de Bassompierre (1579-1646) was a celebrated courtier and soldier in the French royal court. A favorite of King Henry IV, he participated in Italian campaigns and diplomatic missions across Europe. Elevated to marshalate under Louis XIII, he governed Lorraine and engaged in high-stakes negotiations. His memoirs offer an insider's view of 17th-century French politics and warfare, reflecting both his military acumen and courtly finesse.

Richard Molesworth, 3rd Viscount Molesworth (1680-1758) was an Irish field marshal in the British Army and a member of the Irish House of Lords. He served in the War of the Spanish Succession and later the War of the Austrian Succession, earning recognition for his leadership. Molesworth rose to the rank of field marshal and held senior military commands in Ireland. He was also active in politics, advocating for veterans’ welfare and military reform. His dual career as a soldier and politician made him a notable figure in 18th-century British and Irish history.

Born in 1807 at Stratford Hall, Virginia, Robert E. Lee was the son of Revolutionary War hero Henry 'Light-Horse Harry' Lee. He graduated second in his class from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1829. Lee distinguished himself in the Mexican-American War, earning a reputation for tactical skill. When Virginia seceded in 1861, he resigned from the U.S. Army to command the Confederate States Army. As general in chief, he led the Army of Northern Virginia through key battles such as Gettysburg and Antietam. After surrendering at Appomattox Court House in 1865, he became president of Washington College (now Washington and Lee University). Lee remained a complex and revered figure in American history until his death in 1870.

Joseph Stilwell was born in 1883 at West Point and served in multiple conflicts including World War I and II. Nicknamed 'Vinegar Joe' for his frank demeanor, he commanded American forces in the China-Burma-India theater. Stilwell worked closely with Chinese leader Chiang Kai-shek but often clashed over strategy and logistics. He championed the supply route over the Burma Road and advocated for unified Allied command. After being recalled in 1944, he continued to influence US military strategy as a staff member. Stilwell was also an accomplished linguist, fluent in several Asian languages, which aided his diplomatic efforts. He passed away in 1946, leaving a complex legacy as a skilled commander and controversial figure.

George Welch was born in 1918 in Maryville, Tennessee, and graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. During the attack on Pearl Harbor, he famously took off in his P-40 Warhawk to engage Japanese aircraft. Welch is credited with becoming one of the first American fighter pilots to down enemy planes that day. After Pearl Harbor, he continued to serve with distinction in the Pacific theater. Following World War II, Welch worked as a test pilot for North American Aviation, testing the P-80 Shooting Star jet. He tragically died in a crash on Mount Mesa in 1954 during a test flight. Welch's bravery and pioneering flight achievements cemented his place in aviation history.

Julius Saaristo won a silver medal in the 1908 London Olympics and gold in the two-handed javelin at the 1912 Stockholm Games. His innovative technique helped popularize the sport in Finland and beyond. After his athletic career, Saaristo served as an officer in the Finnish Civil Guard during the country's early independence. He contributed to military training and physical education programs. Saaristo's dual legacy as an Olympic champion and soldier made him a national hero. He is remembered for his dedication to sport and service until his death in 1969.

Austin Ardill (1917–2010) was a Northern Irish British Army officer who served with distinction during World War II. After his military career, he joined the Ulster Unionist Party and was elected to regional office. He was a vocal advocate for veterans’ welfare and local community development in Northern Ireland. Known for his strong leadership and commitment, Ardill played a key role in shaping post-war social initiatives. His dedication to public service earned him widespread respect across the province until his passing in 2010.