November 02

Born in 1782 in Taganrog, Pyotr Kotlyarevsky rose from humble origins to become one of Russia’s most celebrated military commanders. He gained renown during the Russo-Turkish War of 1806–1812 for his daring storming of Akhaltsikhe fortress. Later, he led successful campaigns in the Caucasus, securing Russian expansion against local tribes. Kotlyarevsky was noted for his bold tactics and deep understanding of frontier warfare. He authored memoirs recounting his military experiences, contributing to Russian martial literature. Pyotr Kotlyarevsky died on November 2, 1852, and remains honored as a national hero.

Mehmet Esat Bülkat (1862–1952) was a senior Ottoman general renowned for his strategic leadership. After graduating from the Ottoman War College, he served with distinction in the Balkan Wars, earning a reputation for tactical planning. During World War I, Bülkat held a senior command in the defense of the Gallipoli Peninsula, contributing to the Ottoman resistance against the Allied invasion. Following the war, he held military advisory roles and taught at military academies. He retired in the Republic of Turkey and authored treatises on military tactics. Bülkat died in 1952, remembered as one of the most respected commanders of his era.

Born in Mobile, Alabama in 1902, John G. Crommelin graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1923. He served as a destroyer captain and earned distinction during World War II in the Pacific. Known as the 'Rebel Admiral,' he publicly criticized Navy leadership and advocated for modernization. After retiring in 1953, Crommelin ran for Alabama governor and U.S. Senate on segregationist platforms. His 1950 campaign was marked by fiery speeches attacking civil rights and federal policies. He authored books and articles on naval strategy and defense policy. His blend of military expertise and political activism made him a polarizing figure in mid-20th-century America. He remained an influential voice on defense matters until his death in 1996.

After earning his law degree, Frank McCloskey served as a sergeant in the U.S. military. He was first elected to the House of Representatives in 1982 and won re-election five times, representing Indiana's 1st District from 1983 to 1995. As a Democrat, he championed labor rights, environmental protection, and veterans' benefits. McCloskey played a key role in legislation on nuclear safety and consumer protection. Following his congressional career, he returned to legal practice and remained active in community service until his death in 2003.

Robert Morton Duncan (1927-2012) was an American soldier and jurist who broke racial barriers in the U.S. legal system. After serving as an Army officer in the early 1950s, he pursued a legal career that led to several pioneering appointments. In 1969, Duncan became the first African-American to serve on the Ohio Supreme Court. Two years later, President Richard Nixon nominated him to the U.S. Court of Military Appeals, making him one of the first African-Americans in a federal judgeship. His distinguished service paved the way for greater diversity in the American judiciary.

Veljko Kadijević (1925-2014) was a Croatian-born general in the Yugoslav People's Army and politician. He served as the 5th (and last) Federal Secretary of People's Defence from 1988 to 1992, overseeing military affairs during a tumultuous period. Kadijević played a key role in the Yugoslav Wars' early stages, facing complex political and ethnic conflicts. Prior to his appointment, he held various command positions, rising through the army ranks due to his strategic acumen. Following the breakup of Yugoslavia, he retired from public life and remained a controversial figure in regional history. His career reflects the challenges of military leadership amid the dissolution of a multicultural state.