March 05

Hermann Balk first gained prominence in the early 13th century through his leadership in the Baltic Crusades. Appointed Master of the Livonian Brothers of the Sword in 1237, he organized the conquest and Christianization of Livonia and Prussia. He founded fortresses and settlements that secured the order’s strategic foothold. Later, as the first Landmeister of Prussia, he oversaw the administration and colonization of newly acquired territories. Balk’s military and organizational skills laid the foundation for the Teutonic Knights’ future power in the region.

Born around 1487 into a prominent Portuguese family, Nuno da Cunha was nephew to the great navigator Afonso de Albuquerque. As captain-major of the India Armadas, he commanded the fleet that secured Goa and other strategic ports. Appointed Governor of Portuguese India, he oversaw the construction of forts at Goa, Diu, and Bombay, establishing military and commercial strongholds. He negotiated treaties with local rulers to enhance trading privileges and suppressed revolts against Portuguese rule. His tenure laid the foundations for nearly two centuries of Portuguese dominance in the Indian Ocean.

Born in 1533, Yoshihisa became head of the Shimazu clan in 1566 and embarked on campaigns that brought Satsuma, Osumi, and Hyuga under his control. His victory at the Battle of Mimigawa in 1578 showcased his tactical prowess. Facing the ambitions of Oda Nobunaga and Toyotomi Hideyoshi, he negotiated terms that preserved his family’s autonomy. In 1587 he submitted to Hideyoshi to avoid destruction, securing a measure of independence for his domain. His leadership laid the groundwork for Satsuma’s later prominence in Japanese politics and its role in the Meiji Restoration.

Henry Creswicke Rawlinson, 1st Baronet (1810–1895), served in the British East India Company and rose to the rank of general. Stationed in Persia, he painstakingly copied the Behistun Inscription, enabling the decipherment of cuneiform script. His work laid the foundation for modern Assyriology and the study of ancient Near Eastern history. Rawlinson published seminal texts on Babylonian and Persian inscriptions, earning international recognition. He later served as a member of Parliament, advocating for archaeological research and the preservation of antiquities. His scholarly and military achievements bridged the worlds of empire and academia, solidifying his place in 19th-century oriental studies.

Roman Shukhevych was born in 1907 in the Austro-Hungarian region of Galicia and became a prominent figure in the Ukrainian nationalist movement. He co-founded the Organization of Ukrainian Nationalists (OUN) and later led the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) in guerrilla warfare against Soviet and Nazi forces. Shukhevych aimed to secure an independent Ukrainian state and organized underground administration structures. His tactics remain controversial due to accusations of ethnic violence. In 1950, he was killed in a Soviet security operation, becoming a martyr for many Ukrainian independence advocates. His legacy continues to influence modern debates over national identity in Ukraine.

Chen Cheng was a prominent Chinese military leader and statesman who played critical roles in both mainland China and Taiwan. Born in 1897, he rose through the ranks of the National Revolutionary Army and became one of Chiang Kai-shek’s closest confidants. As Premier from 1950 to 1954, he implemented major land and economic reforms that stabilized Taiwan’s post-war economy. Later, he served as Vice President from 1954 until his death in 1965, guiding the Republic of China during a period of political consolidation. Chen also commanded forces during the Second Sino-Japanese War and the Chinese Civil War. His leadership left a lasting impact on Taiwan’s development and cross-strait relations.

Georges Vanier was a distinguished Canadian soldier, diplomat, and the first French-Canadian Governor General, serving from 1959 until his death in 1967. Born in 1888 in Montreal, he served with valor in World War I, earning accolades before rising to the rank of Brigadier General in the Canadian Army. After the war, Vanier served as Canada's ambassador to France and Belgium, fostering strong international ties. As Governor General, he focused on national unity, bilingualism, and youth engagement, often speaking out against racial discrimination and social injustice. Vanier's compassion and dedication to public service made him a beloved figure across Canada. He died in 1967, leaving a legacy honored by schools, parks, and awards bearing his name.

Born in 1894 in Plessisville, Quebec, John Samuel Bourque enlisted during World War I and rose to the rank of colonel through his leadership and tenacity. After distinguished military service, he transitioned to politics, being elected to the Legislative Assembly of Quebec in 1935. As Minister of Public Works and later Tourism, Bourque championed infrastructure projects that modernized rural Quebec. He was a key figure in the Union Nationale party and played a pivotal role in shaping provincial policy. Known for his steadfast integrity and commitment to veterans, he earned respect across party lines. Bourque's dual legacy as a soldier and statesman left an enduring mark on Quebec society.

William O. Wooldridge (1922–2012) was the inaugural Sergeant Major of the Army, appointed in 1966. He served in World War II, the Korean War, and Vietnam, rising through the enlisted ranks. As the first holder of the Army’s highest enlisted position, he defined the role’s responsibilities and standards. Wooldridge was known for his advocacy on behalf of enlisted soldiers and improvements to training. His leadership set the foundation for the modern senior non-commissioned officer corps.

Born in 1931, Ola L. Mize graduated from the University of Alabama and joined the U.S. Army. As a captain in the 8th Cavalry Regiment, he displayed extraordinary bravery during the Korean War at Outpost Harry in 1953. Mize led counterattacks against overwhelming enemy forces, actions that earned him the Medal of Honor. He continued his military career for over three decades, rising to the rank of colonel and serving in various leadership roles. After retiring, he remained active in veterans' affairs and shared his experiences through speaking engagements. Colonel Mize passed away on March 5, 2014, remembered as a model of courage and dedication.