January 11

Born in Toulon in 1722, de Grasse joined the French Navy and quickly advanced through the ranks. In 1781, he commanded the fleet at the Battle of the Chesapeake, cutting off British forces at Yorktown and paving the way for American independence. He later fought in the West Indies and faced defeat at the Battle of the Saintes in 1782. Known for his tactical skill and courage, de Grasse's actions left an enduring legacy in naval history on both sides of the Atlantic.

Nuri Conker was born in 1882 in Istanbul and rose to prominence as a dedicated Ottoman and later Turkish Army officer. A close friend of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, he fought in the Gallipoli Campaign and played a key role in the Turkish War of Independence. After the republic’s founding, Conker served as a member of parliament and held various political posts. Known for his strategic insight and loyalty to the new Turkish state, he helped shape early republican policies. He also participated in diplomatic missions to strengthen international ties. Conker’s career exemplified the blend of military leadership and political service during Turkey’s formative years.

Jean de Lattre de Tassigny was born in 1889 in Mouilleron-en-Pareds and built a distinguished career as a French Army officer. He fought with valor in World War I, earning multiple decorations for bravery. During World War II, he led Free French forces in North Africa and played a key role in the liberation of southern France. Promoted to Marshal of France, he later commanded United Nations forces in the Korean War. De Lattre de Tassigny was noted for his strategic acumen and dedication to allied cooperation. He died in 1952, leaving a legacy as one of France’s most respected military leaders.

Gregory 'Pappy' Boyington was a legendary US Marine Corps fighter ace during World War II. He commanded the famed 'Black Sheep Squadron' and was credited with 28 confirmed aerial victories. Boyington received the Medal of Honor and the Navy Cross for his extraordinary bravery in the Pacific theater. After being shot down and captured, he endured 20 months as a prisoner of war before liberation. His autobiography, 'Baa Baa Black Sheep', inspired a popular television series that cemented his legend. Boyington's daring exploits and charismatic leadership made him one of America's most celebrated military heroes.

Lewis Nixon III was born in 1918 and served as an intelligence officer with the 101st Airborne Division during World War II. He played a key role in major operations such as Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge, providing critical reconnaissance and strategic insights. Nixon was known for his leadership under fire and close friendship with fellow officer Richard Winters. After the war, he struggled with personal challenges but remained a respected figure among his wartime comrades. His experiences were later chronicled in the book and miniseries 'Band of Brothers,' bringing his story to a global audience. Nixon passed away on January 11, 1995, and is remembered for his bravery and dedication.

Theodor Wisch was born in 1907 and rose through the ranks of the SS to become one of the leading Waffen-SS generals in World War II. He commanded notable armored units such as the SS Division 'Reich' and later the 'Totenkopf' division, seeing action on both the Eastern and Western fronts. Wisch was recognized for his tactical skill in armored warfare and received high military honors, including the Knight's Cross of the Iron Cross. After Germany's defeat, he was captured and spent several years as a prisoner of war. Wisch died on January 11, 1995, leaving behind a controversial legacy tied to one of history's darkest chapters but remembered for his military prowess.

Nguyễn Khánh (1927–2013) was a Vietnamese military officer turned statesman. He rose through the ranks to become a general in the Army of the Republic of Vietnam and assumed power in 1964 as the third President of South Vietnam. His tenure was marked by political turmoil and reforms amid the Vietnam War. After being deposed in 1965, he lived in exile while continuing to comment on Vietnamese politics. His complex legacy reflects the challenges of leadership in a turbulent era.

Ariel Sharon (1928–2014) began his military career as a commander in the Haganah and later the Israel Defense Forces. He rose to the rank of general, earning recognition for his leadership in conflicts such as the Six-Day War and the Yom Kippur War. Transitioning to politics, he held several ministerial roles before becoming Israel's 11th Prime Minister. As Prime Minister, he made the controversial decision to withdraw Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip. His career was marked by both military achievements and political controversy, leaving a complex legacy in Israel's history.