January 12

Hugh Mercer (1726–1777) studied medicine in the Scottish universities before emigrating to Pennsylvania in 1747 and establishing a practice in Fredericksburg, Virginia. He served as a surgeon and officer during the French and Indian War, gaining military experience that later informed his Revolutionary War service. In 1776, Mercer joined the Continental Army and was promoted to brigadier general for his leadership and bravery. At the Battle of Princeton in January 1777, he was mortally wounded while rallying American troops against British forces. Mercer’s sacrifice made him a celebrated hero of the American Revolution.

Edward Smith was born in 1898 and commissioned as a lieutenant in the British Army during World War I. He was awarded the Victoria Cross — the British Empire's highest military decoration — for his acts of conspicuous gallantry under fire. Smith's courageous leadership inspired his comrades and set a standard of heroism on the battlefield. After the war, he continued serving in the military and remained a respected figure among veterans. His wartime service exemplified dedication and self-sacrifice in the face of danger. Lieutenant Smith died in 1940, remembered as one of England's decorated war heroes.

Lance C. Wade was born in 1915 and began his aviation career flying with the Royal Air Force’s Eagle Squadrons. He achieved several aerial victories and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his bravery. Wade later transferred to the United States Army Air Forces, rising to command the 325th Fighter Group. Under his leadership, the group supported key Allied operations in Europe and North Africa. He was known for his tactical skill, inspirational leadership, and commitment to his pilots' welfare. In 1944, Wade died in an aircraft accident, remembered as one of the first Americans to distinguish themselves in the skies of World War II.

John Tovey, 1st Baron Tovey, was a distinguished Royal Navy officer who rose to Admiral of the Fleet. He commanded Force H in the Mediterranean, overseeing operations such as the attack on the French fleet at Mers-el-Kebir. In May 1941, Tovey led the Home Fleet's pursuit that culminated in the sinking of the German battleship Bismarck. His strategic acumen and decisive leadership were credited with maintaining Allied naval superiority in the Atlantic. After the war, he served as First Sea Lord and later contributed to the House of Lords, leaving a lasting legacy of naval excellence.

Born in Buenos Aires, Galtieri rose through the Argentine Army to become a brigadier general. He was a key figure in the military junta that ruled Argentina in the early 1980s. Appointed President in December 1981, Galtieri oversaw the invasion of the Falkland Islands in 1982. The ensuing conflict with the United Kingdom ended in Argentina's defeat and damaged his regime's credibility. He was removed from power later that year and faced trial on human rights charges. Galtieri's presidency remains a pivotal chapter in Argentine and Falklands history.

James 'Digger Jim' Killen served in the Royal Australian Navy during World War II before pursuing a career in law. Elected MP for Moreton in 1955, he held his seat until 1983 and became a leading figure in the Liberal Party. From 1975 to 1982, he served as Australia's 38th Minister for Defence under Prime Minister Malcolm Fraser. He guided the modernization of the Australian Defence Force and navigated Cold War challenges with strategic insight. Knighted in 1980 for his service, Killen is remembered for his wit, leadership, and contributions to national security.

Born in 1922 in Bossier City, George Dement served as an officer in the United States Army during World War II. After the war, he returned to Louisiana and built a successful career in agriculture and the hospitality industry. He entered politics and was elected mayor of Bossier City in 1989, a position he held for four terms. During his tenure, he oversaw significant economic development, including the creation of the Bossier Business Park and improvements to the riverfront. Dement was widely respected for his pragmatic leadership and hands-on approach to city governance. He passed away on January 12, 2014, leaving a lasting legacy in the community.