February 14

Jean Victor Marie Moreau was born in 1763 and rose to prominence as a commander in the French Revolutionary Army, achieving a decisive victory at the Battle of Hohenlinden in 1800. Regarded as one of France's most talented generals, he later fell out with Napoleon and supported a royalist plot, leading to his exile in the United States. Moreau returned to Europe to join Russia's campaign against Napoleon and died in 1813 from wounds sustained at Dresden. His tactical innovations influenced nineteenth-century military thought.

Winfield Scott Hancock was a career U.S. Army officer born in 1824. A West Point graduate, he fought in the Mexican-American War before rising to prominence in the Civil War. At Gettysburg, Hancock's leadership of the II Corps was pivotal in repelling Confederate assaults. His steadfast command earned him the nickname Hancock the Superb among peers and soldiers. After the war, he oversaw Reconstruction efforts in the Southern states. In 1880, the Democratic Party nominated him for president on a platform of national reconciliation. He lost the election to James A. Garfield and died in 1886, remembered as one of America's respected commanders.

Alfred Iverson Jr. was born in 1829 in Georgia. A West Point graduate, he served in the U.S. Army before resigning to join the Confederacy in 1861. Iverson commanded infantry brigades in the Army of Northern Virginia, fighting at Seven Pines and Antietam. At the Battle of Gettysburg, his brigade assaulted Cemetery Ridge but suffered heavy losses. Plagued by ill health, he resigned his commission in late 1863 and returned to civilian life. After the war, Iverson practiced law and engaged in business ventures in New York. He died in 1911, remembered for his bold if sometimes costly wartime leadership.

Julian Scott enlisted in the Union Army at age fifteen, serving as a drummer in the 3rd Vermont Infantry. Despite his youth, he displayed extraordinary courage during the Battle of Monocacy in 1864, carrying messages under heavy fire. For his actions supporting the Union defense, he was awarded the Medal of Honor, one of the youngest recipients in the Civil War. After the war, Scott continued to honor veterans and shared his wartime experiences through lectures. His legacy highlights the vital role of young soldiers and musicians in 19th-century warfare.

Radola Gajda served as a distinguished officer in the Austro-Hungarian Army before joining the Czechoslovak Legion in Russia during World War I. He rose to prominence under Admiral Kolchak's White forces, commanding troops on the Siberian front. After returning to Czechoslovakia, Gajda held senior positions in the army and played a key role in establishing the country's military structure. Transitioning to politics, he co-founded the National Fascist Community, advocating authoritarian reforms in the 1930s. Accused of conspiracies and extremist activities, his career waned and he spent his final years under suspicion and house arrest. Despite controversy, Gajda's early contributions to Czech statehood and military organization remain significant.

Wilhelm Burgdorf entered the Imperial German Army before serving on the Western Front in World War I. He rose through the ranks of the Reichswehr and Wehrmacht, eventually becoming Deputy Chief of the Army General Staff. In World War II, Burgdorf was appointed Chief of the Army Personnel Office and was integral in enforcing high command policies. He was present in the Führerbunker during the Battle of Berlin, remaining loyal to Hitler until the end. In May 1945, as Soviet forces closed in, Burgdorf took his own life, following Hitler's suicide. Burgdorf's career reflects the complexities and tragedies of Germany's military leadership during the war.

Marcel Bigeard was a charismatic French paratroop commander whose military career spanned from World War II through the Algerian War. He joined the Free French Forces in 1940 and fought with distinction in North Africa and Europe. After World War II, Bigeard led airborne units in Indochina, earning fame for his defense at Dien Bien Phu. During the Algerian War, he orchestrated counter-insurgency operations, becoming one of France's most recognized military figures. A proponent of modern airborne tactics, he rose to the rank of Général d'armée. After retiring, Bigeard served in the French National Assembly and wrote memoirs reflecting on colonial conflicts and military ethics.

Born and raised in Guam, Vicente T. Blaz joined the U.S. Marine Corps in 1950. He served with distinction during the Korean and Vietnam Wars, earning multiple commendations and rising to the rank of brigadier general. After retiring from active duty, Blaz entered politics and was elected as Guam's delegate to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1984, serving until 1993. In Congress, he advocated for veterans' benefits, island infrastructure, and greater self-governance for Guam. His dual legacy as a decorated military officer and dedicated public servant made him an influential figure in the history of Guam.

Rod Masterson was born on February 14, 1945 in the United States. He served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Army before pursuing a career in acting. Masterson appeared in various supporting roles across film, television, and regional theater over several decades. Known for his versatility and dedication, he brought authenticity to every character he portrayed. Outside of acting, he was involved in community arts initiatives and mentored young performers. Masterson passed away in 2013, leaving behind a legacy of commitment to both service and the performing arts.

Sir Philip Jones joined the Royal Navy in the late 1970s and progressed through a variety of seagoing and strategic appointments. He commanded vessels at sea before moving to high-level staff positions, contributing to defense policy and naval operations. Recognized for his leadership and operational expertise, he has advised on maritime strategy within NATO and the Ministry of Defence. Jones was honored with a knighthood for his distinguished service to his country. His career reflects a commitment to modernizing naval forces and strengthening international maritime partnerships. He remains a respected voice on naval affairs and defense issues.