October 21

Walter Sans Avoir was a French knight who joined the People's Crusade in 1096. He allied with Peter the Hermit to lead a band of largely untrained pilgrims toward the Holy Land. His forces marched through the Balkans and into Anatolia, suffering from shortages and skirmishes. They clashed with Seljuk Turk forces near Nicaea in northern Asia Minor. Walter was killed in battle, becoming one of the earliest casualties of the First Crusade. His death highlighted the dangers faced by poorly equipped crusader bands. Despite his short campaign, his efforts exemplified the zeal and challenges of early crusading.

Ōtani Yoshitsugu served as a trusted samurai under the warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi during Japan’s Sengoku period. Despite suffering from leprosy, he continued to lead troops with courage and skill. His valor earned him high command and respect among his peers. On his deathbed, he was promised a key role at the Battle of Sekigahara, highlighting his strategic importance. Yoshitsugu’s story has since become a symbol of loyalty and perseverance in Japanese history.

John Cooke was born in 1763 and entered the Royal Navy at a young age. He served with distinction during the French Revolutionary Wars. In 1805 he took command of HMS Bellerophon. He played a key role in the Battle of Trafalgar against the combined French and Spanish fleets. Cooke was killed in action while leading his ship into the thick of the fight. His leadership and bravery became part of naval legend.

George Duff was born in 1764 in Scotland and joined the Royal Navy as a midshipman. He rose through the ranks with a reputation for discipline and skill. In 1805 he was appointed captain of HMS Mars. During the Battle of Trafalgar he led aggressive attacks against enemy ships. Duff was killed by enemy fire early in the engagement. His death was mourned by his crew and he is remembered for his tactical acumen.

Horatio Nelson was born in 1758 and joined the Royal Navy at age 12. He gained fame for his daring tactics during the French Revolutionary Wars. Nelson was appointed Vice Admiral and given command of the British fleet at Trafalgar. His innovative strategies secured a decisive victory against the combined French and Spanish navies. Nelson was fatally wounded during the battle and died on HMS Victory. His leadership style and naval legacy have influenced generations of military commanders.

Edward Dickinson Baker was born in 1811 in Kentucky and became a lawyer before entering politics. He served as a U.S. Senator from Oregon and later as a congressman from California. Baker organized volunteer regiments at the outbreak of the Civil War and was commissioned as a colonel. He led his troops at the Battle of Ball's Bluff in October 1861. Baker was killed under enemy fire, making him the only member of Congress to die in combat. His dual career in law, politics, and military service has made him a unique figure in American history.

Born in 1918, Józef Franczak joined the Polish resistance during World War II and later refused to accept the communist government. Known by the nickname 'Lalek', he evaded capture for nearly two decades while continuing armed operations. His life in hiding made him a symbol of anti-communist defiance. In 1963, he was killed in a firefight with security forces, marking the end of the so-called 'cursed soldiers' era. Franczak's legacy remains controversial but is commemorated by those who view him as a freedom fighter.

Born in 1887, Charles Reidpath rose to fame by winning the 400 meters and anchor leg of the 4×400 meter relay at the 1912 Stockholm Olympics. After his athletic success, he pursued a military career, serving in the Pancho Villa Expedition and World War I. Reidpath achieved the rank of brigadier general in the National Guard and was a strong advocate for physical education. His dual legacy as an Olympic champion and military leader exemplifies his dedication to service and sport. He died in 1975, remembered for his contributions to American athletics and the armed forces.

Born in 1910, Georgios Zoitakis enjoyed a distinguished military career, rising to the rank of general in the Greek Army. Following the 1967 coup d’état, he was appointed Regent of Greece under the ruling military junta. In this role, he acted as the official head of state while real power rested with the colonels’ leadership. Zoitakis oversaw a period of authoritarian rule marked by political suppression and social unrest. After the restoration of democracy, he retired from public life and died in 1996.

Born in 1915, Francis W. Sargent served as a pilot in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. After the war, he entered politics in Massachusetts, eventually being elected lieutenant governor and then governor. As governor, he championed environmental protection, urban development, and civil rights reforms. His tenure saw landmark legislation like the Massachusetts Environmental Policy Act. Sargent remained active in public policy and conservation efforts until his death in 1998.