February 23

Born in 856 to a Shatuo Turkic family, Li Keyong rose to prominence by suppressing rebellions and defending the Tang court against rival warlords. Appointed jiedushi (military governor), he controlled large swaths of northern China and maintained semi-autonomous rule. After the central dynasty weakened, he established the foundation for the Later Tang dynasty through his military campaigns and administrative reforms. His tenure saw significant battles against the agrarian rebels of Huang Chao and other contenders. Li Keyong’s legacy endured through his son Li Cunxu, who would eventually claim the imperial title.

Albrecht von Roon was a leading military reformer and statesman in 19th-century Prussia. Born in 1803, he rose through the military ranks, earning recognition for his organizational skills. As Prussian Minister of War and later Minister President, he partnered with Otto von Bismarck to restructure the army and implement universal conscription. His reforms strengthened Prussia’s military capabilities, paving the way for victories in the Danish and Austro-Prussian wars. Von Roon’s policies centralized command and standardized training, contributing to the unification of Germany. After leaving office, he remained influential in military affairs. He died in 1879, leaving a legacy as one of the architects of modern Prussian military strength.

Born October 9, 1907, in Bielefeld, Germany, Horst Wessel rose to prominence as a Nazi SA Sturmführer.\nHe participated in violent clashes with political opponents during the turbulent Weimar Republic era.\nWessel penned the lyrics to the 'Horst-Wessel-Lied,' which became a key Nazi anthem.\nAfter being shot in January 1930, he died on February 23, 1930, from his wounds.\nThe Nazi Party elevated him as a martyr, using his death to fuel propaganda and strengthen party unity.\nHis song was later adopted as the co-national anthem of Nazi Germany, symbolizing its ideology.\nHis legacy remains controversial, emblematic of the dark history of the Third Reich.

Born November 8, 1885, in Hiroshima Prefecture, Yamashita graduated from the Imperial Japanese Army Academy in 1905.\nHe distinguished himself during the Second Sino-Japanese War and in Manchuria before World War II.\nDuring the Malayan Campaign of 1941–42, he led Japanese forces to a swift victory and captured Singapore.\nHis tactical prowess earned him the nickname 'Tiger of Malaya' and respect from allies and adversaries alike.\nReassigned in 1944 to defend the Philippines, he was unable to stop the Allied advance.\nAfter Japan's surrender, he was tried by a tribunal in Manila for war crimes committed by troops under his command.\nFound guilty, he was executed on February 23, 1946, raising enduring debates on command responsibility.

Roger Hilsman was born in 1919 and served in U.S. Army intelligence during World War II, earning recognition for his service in the Pacific. After the war, he pursued an academic career at Harvard University, focusing on international relations and counterinsurgency. Invited by President Kennedy, he joined the State Department as Director of the Bureau of Intelligence and Research. He later served as Assistant Secretary of State for Far Eastern Affairs, helping shape U.S. policy in Vietnam. An author of influential books on guerrilla warfare and diplomacy, he bridged scholarship and government service. His work left a lasting impact on Cold War strategy and American foreign policy.

Bill Dykes was born in 1925 and served honorably in the United States military. Following his military career, he entered politics and held public office in his home state. A passionate advocate for veterans, he worked to improve healthcare and benefits for former service members. He focused on community development, education, and infrastructure during his time in office. His leadership and commitment earned him respect from constituents and colleagues alike. He is remembered for bridging military and civilian service with compassion and integrity.