July 08

Born in Konstanz, Germany in 1838, Ferdinand von Zeppelin served as a cavalry officer in the Prussian Army and as an observer in the U.S. Civil War. After retiring from the military, he devoted himself to designing rigid airships for long-distance travel. In 1900 he flew his first experimental airship, the LZ 1, on Lake Constance. He founded the Zeppelin Airship Company to manufacture commercial airships, which were used for passenger and military transport. His designs influenced early 20th-century aviation and established the era of luxury airship travel. Although his airships faced setbacks, his vision laid the groundwork for modern dirigibles. Zeppelin's name became synonymous with lighter-than-air flight until his death in 1917.

Alan Brown was an English soldier who dedicated his life to military service. He enlisted with the British Army in the years leading up to World War II and served in key European campaigns, demonstrating leadership and resilience in challenging conditions. After the war, Brown contributed to training programs for new recruits, drawing on his combat experience to mentor future officers. He remained an active figure in veterans' organizations, advocating for the welfare of his comrades. Brown’s commitment to his country and fellow soldiers endured throughout his career until his death in 1971.

Carlos Betances Ramírez was a Puerto Rican general born in 1910 who dedicated his life to strengthening the island’s military capabilities. Rising through the ranks, he oversaw training programs and strategic planning that modernized the Puerto Rico National Guard. His leadership ensured readiness during periods of civil unrest and natural disasters, fostering close cooperation between military and civilian authorities. Throughout his career, Betances Ramírez emphasized professional development and community outreach, earning respect across both military and civilian spheres. After retiring, he continued to advise on defense matters until his death in 2001, leaving a lasting legacy of service and innovation.

Neil D. Van Sickle was a United States Air Force major general born in 1915, whose career spanned pivotal moments in military aviation history. During World War II, he served as a pilot and staff officer in strategic bombing campaigns over Europe. In the ensuing Cold War era, Van Sickle held key command positions within the Military Air Transport Service, overseeing global airlift operations that supported American forces and humanitarian missions. He was instrumental in developing logistical doctrines that ensured rapid response capabilities. After retiring, he wrote extensively on airpower strategy and continued to advise on defense policy until his death in 2019.

Lowell English was a United States Marine Corps general born in 1915, renowned for his leadership in some of the most challenging battles of the mid-20th century. He led Marine infantry units in the Pacific theater during World War II, exhibiting tactical innovation in amphibious operations. During the Korean War, English commanded ground forces under intense combat conditions, earning multiple commendations for bravery and strategic acumen. Later, he served in high-level staff and training roles, shaping Marine Corps doctrine on expeditionary warfare. After retiring, English remained active in veterans’ organizations and contributed to historical studies of Marine operations until his death in 2005.

Paul B. Fay was born in 1918 and became a longtime friend and plane commander for John F. Kennedy during World War II. After the war, Fay co-founded an investment firm before entering public service. In 1961, Kennedy appointed him Secretary of the Navy, where he oversaw naval operations during a pivotal era of Cold War tensions. Fay's leadership focused on modernizing the fleet and supporting emerging technologies. After leaving government, he returned to business and remained active in veterans' affairs until his death in 2009.

Born in 1918, Oluf Reed-Olsen joined the Norwegian resistance after the German invasion in 1940. He flew covert missions between Norway and Great Britain, transporting agents, supplies, and refugees under the cover of darkness. Reed-Olsen's daring flights aboard Lysanders and other aircraft contributed to the success of intelligence operations. After the war, he continued flying as a commercial pilot and remained a respected figure in Norway's veteran community. He died in 2002, remembered for his courage and skill.

Edward B. Giller was born in 1918 and served in the U.S. Army Air Forces during World War II before rising through the ranks of the Air Force. As commander of the Air Force Special Weapons Center at Kirtland Air Force Base, he played a key role in testing and developing nuclear and other strategic weapons. Giller's leadership helped shape U.S. deterrence policy during a critical period of the Cold War. He retired after a distinguished career and passed away in 2017, remembered for his technical expertise and command abilities.

Walter Scheel was born in 1919 and served in the German Army during World War II before entering politics. As a founding member of the Free Democratic Party, he held several cabinet positions, including Foreign Minister and Vice Chancellor under Willy Brandt. In 1974, Scheel became President of West Germany, focusing on domestic reconciliation and supporting Ostpolitik, the policy of détente with East Germany and the Soviet bloc. He was remembered for his diplomatic skill and commitment to European integration. Scheel passed away in 2016 at the age of 97.