February 17

Born in Pittsburgh in 1935, Berry L. Cannon pursued a career as a naval engineer and diver. He was selected for the SEALAB III project, an ambitious U.S. Navy program to establish an underwater habitat off the coast of California. Cannon served as an aquanaut during the treacherous first mission, living and working on the ocean floor to test human endurance under pressure. Tragedy struck when he lost his life in 1969 due to equipment failures and toxic gas buildup in the habitat. His death highlighted the challenges of undersea exploration and spurred improvements in deep-sea engineering and safety protocols. Cannon's sacrifice remains a reminder of the bravery and risks undertaken by those who push the boundaries of human exploration.

Conchita Cintrón was born in Lima, Peru, to Chilean parents and became one of the few women to gain recognition in the male-dominated world of bullfighting. Debuting in the late 1930s, she earned acclaim for her skill and grace in the bullring, performing across Spain, Mexico, and the United States. Known as "La Diosa de los Toros" (The Goddess of the Bulls), she fought both on foot and on horseback, challenging traditional gender roles. After retiring from the ring, she pursued a career in journalism, writing for Mexican newspapers and magazines. Cintrón's legacy endures as a symbol of empowerment for women in sports and beyond. She passed away in 2009, leaving a trailblazing path for future generations.

Born in 1923, Mohamed Hassanein Heikal became editor-in-chief of Al-Ahram, Egypt's leading newspaper. He was a close confidant of President Gamal Abdel Nasser and provided insider perspectives on Middle Eastern politics. Heikal's writings and books offered in-depth analysis of Arab affairs during the 20th century. He earned prominence for his eloquent style and authoritative voice in journalism. He passed away in 2016, leaving a legacy as one of the most respected Arab journalists.

James Harrison began donating plasma in 1954 and was found to have rare antibodies against the Rho D antigen. His donations led to the development of anti-D immunoglobulin in 1968, a breakthrough that prevented Rhesus disease in babies. Nicknamed 'the Man with the Golden Arm', he made over 1,173 donations across six decades, holding a world record. His contributions are credited with saving an estimated two million lives worldwide, earning him national recognition. In 1999 Harrison was appointed a Member of the Order of Australia for his extraordinary philanthropic impact.