December 28

Wang Zongbi served as one of the leading commanders under the rulers of Former Shu, demonstrating strategic acumen on the battlefield. He rose through the ranks to oversee military defenses and internal security for the kingdom. Operating during a time of political fragmentation, he was instrumental in maintaining stability in the Sichuan region. Despite limited historical records, his leadership exemplifies the challenges faced by generals in fractured post-Tang China. His death in 925 marked the end of a career dedicated to the short-lived kingdom’s survival.

A member of the powerful Strathbogie family, David II inherited the Earldom of Atholl in the early 14th century. He was appointed Constable of Scotland and later served as Chief Warden of Northumberland, reflecting his dual roles on both sides of the border. His career unfolded amid the Wars of Scottish Independence, where loyalties were often divided. He navigated shifting alliances between the Scottish and English crowns. His death in 1326 marked the passing of a significant figure in medieval Anglo-Scottish relations.

Born in 1330, Yoshiakira succeeded his father, Ashikaga Takauji, as shōgun in 1358. His tenure was marked by efforts to stabilize the shogunate amid regional rebellions and the ongoing Nanboku-chō conflict. He sought to maintain central authority while balancing the power of influential samurai clans. Under his leadership, Kyoto experienced relative peace, allowing cultural activities to flourish. He died in 1367, leaving a legacy of cautious governance during a turbulent era.

Alexandre de Serpa Pinto was born in 1846 in Portugal and pursued a military career. He led several expeditions into central Africa, mapping unknown regions and establishing Portuguese presence. His explorations included journeys along the Zambezi and Congo rivers, contributing valuable geographic and ethnographic information. Serpa Pinto's accounts helped European understanding of African interior routes and cultures. He was later appointed governor of Portuguese colonies in Africa, applying his field experience to colonial administration.

Born in 1892 in Canada, Alfred Edwin McKay joined the Royal Flying Corps during the First World War. He quickly distinguished himself as a skilled aviator and was promoted to captain. McKay flew numerous reconnaissance and combat missions on the Western Front. He earned praise for his courage under fire and his contributions to air warfare tactics. On December 28, 1917, he was killed in action, leaving behind a legacy of bravery. His service is remembered as part of Canada's early aviation history.

Born in 1910 in New Zealand, Lovelock excelled in middle-distance running from a young age. He claimed Olympic gold in the 1500 meters at the 1936 Berlin Games, setting a then-world record. He later attended the University of Oxford, balancing academics with athletics. After returning home, he was celebrated as one of New Zealand’s greatest athletes. During World War II, he served with the New Zealand forces in the Royal Air Force, demonstrating bravery and leadership. He died in 1949 following complications from a motorcycle accident, remembered for his extraordinary athleticism and service.

Born in 1893 to an aristocratic family, Ogilvy inherited the title Earl of Airlie at a young age. He served with distinction during World War I and again in World War II, earning military honors. Ogilvy was a close companion and lord-in-waiting to the royal household, overseeing court ceremonies. An accomplished equestrian, he led the Royal Company of Archers during royal events. He managed extensive family estates and contributed to local community initiatives in Scotland. He died in 1968, remembered as a dedicated soldier and loyal servant of the Crown.

John D. MacDonald (1916–1986) was an American writer and U.S. Army Air Force colonel whose novels blended suspense and social commentary. After serving as a bombardier in World War II, he turned to writing and produced over 70 novels and 150 short stories. His character Travis McGee, a reluctant private investigator, became a cultural icon in a series of 21 novels. MacDonald’s crisp prose and insights into human nature earned him critical acclaim and a loyal readership. He explored themes of environmentalism, morality, and the American dream throughout his work. His influence can be seen in the works of contemporary thriller and crime writers.

Samuel Abraham Goldblith was born in 1919 in Freiburg, Germany, and emigrated to the U.S. as a child. He served as an Army lieutenant during World War II and endured captivity as a POW on the Burma Railway. After the war, he earned a doctorate in food technology and joined MIT, leading groundbreaking research in food preservation. Goldblith developed innovative freeze-drying and microwave processing methods used in military and space missions. He published over 200 scientific papers and held multiple patents, transforming modern food engineering. As director of MIT’s Food Technology Center, he mentored future leaders in the field. He died on December 28, 2001, leaving a legacy of scientific innovation and resilience.

Benjamin Thurman Hacker was born in 1935 in Severn, Maryland, and graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1957. He became a naval aviator and later commanded the aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson during pivotal Pacific deployments. Hacker served as Commander of the U.S. Sixth Fleet in the Mediterranean, overseeing strategic naval operations. He also led the Navy Recruiting Command, shaping the service's recruitment efforts. A decorated officer, he received awards including the Legion of Merit and Distinguished Flying Cross. He died on December 28, 2003, after a distinguished naval career spanning over four decades.

Born in Indianapolis in 1932, he served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and earned a Purple Heart. He graduated from Indiana University School of Law and practiced as an attorney before entering politics. Elected to Congress in 1964, he represented Indiana for over three decades. Jacobs was known for his advocacy on civil rights, veterans' issues, and foreign policy. He retired in 1997 after a long legislative career and continued writing and commentating on political affairs. His commitment to public service left a lasting impact on his constituents and colleagues.