December 25

Born in 1700 into the House of Ascania, he succeeded his father as Prince of Anhalt-Dessau in 1747. As a general in the Prussian army, he served under Frederick the Great during the War of Austrian Succession. Leopold introduced significant improvements to artillery design and cavalry training methods. His reforms enhanced the mobility and firepower of Prussian forces in the mid-18th century. He fought with distinction in the Seven Years’ War, earning respect for his leadership and bravery. He died in 1758, remembered as an innovative military reformer who strengthened Prussian arms.

Born in Chelmsford, Massachusetts in 1757, Pierce joined the Continental Army during the American Revolution. He fought in several key battles and rose to the rank of brigadier general. After the war, Pierce entered politics and was elected governor of New Hampshire, serving from 1827 to 1828. He focused on veterans' welfare and improvements to state infrastructure during his administration. Pierce was the father of Franklin Pierce, the 14th President of the United States. He died in 1839, remembered for his leadership both on the battlefield and in public office.

Kenneth Anderson was born in India in 1891 and had a distinguished military career in the British Army. He rose to the rank of Lieutenant-General and commanded the British First Army during the North African campaign of World War II. Anderson's leadership was noted for strategic planning under challenging desert conditions. After retiring from active service, he was appointed Governor of Gibraltar, serving until his death in 1959. He is remembered for his contributions to military strategy and public service.

Ernest L. Massad graduated from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1931. He served in artillery units during World War II, earning commendations for leadership under fire. During the Korean War, he commanded key artillery battalions and advised on strategic operations. Massad held several high-level staff positions in NATO and the Pentagon after the wars. Promoted to Major General, he influenced artillery tactics and officer training programs. His career exemplified dedication to service and innovation in military strategy.

Maung Aye is a Burmese military officer who rose through the ranks of Myanmar's armed forces to become a lieutenant general. From 1993 to 2011, he served as vice-chairman of the State Peace and Development Council, Myanmar's ruling military junta. In this role, he was the second-in-command to Senior General Than Shwe and played a key part in governing the country during a period of strict military rule. Maung Aye was considered a potential successor to the top leadership but was sidelined during political transitions. He has maintained a low public profile since Myanmar began its process of limited democratic reforms. His career reflects the complexities of military governance in Myanmar.

Ravish Malhotra is an Indian Air Force officer who began his military career in the early 1960s, flying fighter jets with skill and precision. He rose through the ranks to hold key leadership roles within the Indian military establishment. Throughout his career, he played a vital role in training future generations of pilots and contributing to strategic defense operations. His dedication to excellence and commitment to his country earned him respect among his peers and subordinates. Even after ending active service, he remains a respected figure in the Indian Air Force community.

Michael P. Anderson was a United States Air Force colonel, pilot, and accomplished NASA astronaut. Selected in 1994, he flew as a mission specialist on STS-89 and STS-107. On his final mission, STS-107, he conducted vital scientific experiments aboard the Space Shuttle Columbia. Tragically, Anderson and his six crewmates lost their lives when Columbia disintegrated during re-entry in 2003. A skilled engineer and dedicated scientist, he contributed significantly to space research and exploration. His legacy endures through scholarships and educational programs established in his honor, and his commitment to discovery continues to inspire future generations of astronauts and engineers.