November 25

Installed as shōgun in 1266 at the age of two, Koreyasu’s authority was controlled by the powerful Hōjō clan regents. His tenure saw the consolidation of regency power and administrative reforms that shaped the shogunate’s governance. Although he bore the title of military leader, real power rested with his regents in Kamakura. Koreyasu was deposed in 1289 and later lived in retirement under house arrest. His life reflects the complex dynamics of ceremonial leadership and regent authority in medieval Japan.

Born into a noble family in 1466, Andrea Doria became one of the Mediterranean’s most respected naval commanders. He served various powers, including France and the Holy Roman Empire, before restoring Genoa’s sovereignty in 1528. Doria introduced constitutional reforms that balanced power between the nobility and popular assemblies. His naval victories against Ottoman and Barbary forces cemented his reputation as a master strategist. He continued to influence Genoese politics until his death in 1560, leaving a legacy of maritime prowess and civic reform.

Appointed regional commander in 1555, Hu Zongxian led successful campaigns to suppress the Wokou pirate raids threatening coastal trade. He coordinated naval patrols and forged alliances with local officials to protect key ports like Ningbo and Shanghai. Hu negotiated a temporary truce with pirate leader Wang Zhi, showcasing his diplomatic skills. Despite his victories, he faced accusations of corruption and was removed from office in 1564. Hu died in 1565, remembered for his strategic contributions to maritime security during a turbulent period.

Mao Anying (1922-1950) was the firstborn son of Chinese Communist leader Mao Zedong, educated in the Soviet Union before returning to China. He served as a staff officer and translator in the People's Liberation Army during the Chinese Civil War. In October 1950, he volunteered for deployment to North Korea, joining a communications unit supporting Chinese forces. Tragically, he was killed in a U.S. airstrike near the Chongchon River, a loss that resonated deeply in China. His sacrifice elevated him as a patriotic symbol and remains a poignant chapter in the history of the Korean War.

Born in 1913, Alexander Marinesko joined the Soviet Navy and specialized in submarine warfare. As captain of the S-13 submarine during World War II, he achieved his greatest triumph by sinking the German battleship Scharnhorst in 1943. Despite his tactical brilliance, he faced political challenges and was posthumously honored as a Hero of the Soviet Union in 1990. Known for his determination and unconventional tactics, Marinesko became a legend in naval history. After the war, he continued to serve until retiring with the rank of Captain 3rd Rank. He died in 1963, remembered as one of the Soviet Union's most daring military officers.

Alva Randolph Fitch (1907-1989) was a United States Army officer who rose to the rank of Lieutenant General. He graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1930 and served with distinction during World War II, commanding infantry units in the European Theater. During the Korean War, he led troops as commander of the 24th Infantry Division. In the 1960s, Fitch held senior intelligence positions including Deputy Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency. He received multiple decorations such as the Silver Star and Distinguished Service Medal. After retiring in 1967, he remained active in military affairs and contributed to veterans' organizations.

Kenneth M. Taylor was born in 1919 and served as a lieutenant in the United States Army Air Forces at Pearl Harbor. On December 7, 1941, he and fellow pilot George Welch rushed their P-40 fighters into battle, becoming the first pilots to respond to the surprise attack. Taylor shot down at least two Japanese aircraft, earning the Distinguished Service Cross. He later flew in the Doolittle Raid and served throughout World War II. After retiring as a colonel in 1960, he continued to promote aviation history until his passing in 2006.

Jeremy Black was an English admiral in the Royal Navy with a distinguished career spanning 37 years. He commanded multiple ships and held key staff appointments during the Cold War era. Black was known for his strategic leadership and expertise in maritime operations. He played a significant role in modernizing naval tactics and training programs. After retirement, he served as a consultant and penned memoirs on naval history. His legacy endures in Royal Navy doctrine and leadership.