August 29

John Hastings inherited the earldom of Pembroke in the mid-14th century and became a prominent English noble. He led troops in campaigns in France and Brittany, exemplifying the martial role of aristocracy during the Hundred Years’ War. As a landowner in Wales and England, he managed extensive estates and maintained local governance. Hastings was also a patron of religious institutions, supporting the church in his domains. He died in 1375, leaving a legacy of military leadership and feudal stewardship.

Born in 1514 into the influential Álvarez de Toledo family, García wielded significant power in Spain’s Golden Age. As 4th Marquis of Villafranca, he managed vast estates and played a role at the royal court. Appointed admiral, he led Spanish fleets in the Mediterranean, protecting maritime trade and engaging Ottoman forces. He supported naval expeditions that expanded Habsburg influence and secured vital shipping routes. He died in 1577, remembered for his naval leadership and contributions to Spain’s naval supremacy.

Born in 1597, Henry Gage was a dedicated cavalry officer in support of the Royalist cause. He raised troops and led sorties against Parliamentary forces in key engagements across England. Known for his steadfast loyalty, he maintained close ties with the royal leadership. Gage commanded garrisons and defended strategic towns until his death in 1645 amid ongoing conflict. His service exemplifies the commitment of aristocratic officers to the monarchy during the civil war.

John Granville was born in 1628 to a devoted Royalist family and fought for Charles I during the civil war. After the king’s execution, he aided in plans for the Restoration of Charles II, including facilitating secret communications. For his loyalty, he was created the 1st Earl of Bath in 1660 and granted lands and honors. He served as Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, overseeing administration and military affairs on behalf of the crown. Granville also held command of royal forces and influenced policy at the English court. He died in 1701, leaving a legacy as a skilled diplomat and staunch defender of monarchy.

Count Heinrich von Bellegarde (1756–1845) was an Austrian field marshal and diplomat. He distinguished himself in the campaigns against Revolutionary and Napoleonic France, rising through the military ranks. In 1813, he commanded Austrian forces at the Battle of Leipzig, contributing to the defeat of Napoleon. After the wars, Bellegarde served as Austrian ambassador to France, helping to shape the post-Napoleonic European settlement. His career combined military leadership with diplomatic skill, playing a key role in early 19th-century European geopolitics.

Dave Reichert is an American former law enforcement officer and politician born on August 29, 1950, in Detroit, Michigan. He served as King County Sheriff from 1997 to 2007, leading the high-profile investigation into the Green River Killer. In 2005, Reichert was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, where he represented Washington’s 8th district for seven terms. During his tenure, he focused on public safety, veterans’ affairs, and fiscal responsibility. After retiring from Congress in 2019, he continued to engage in community service and advocacy for law enforcement.

Born in 1959 in Sarnia, Ontario, Chris Hadfield served as a Royal Canadian Air Force test pilot. Selected as an astronaut in 1992, he flew missions aboard the Space Shuttle and Soyuz spacecraft. In 2013, Hadfield became the first Canadian to command the International Space Station. He conducted dozens of experiments in microgravity and shared his experiences through social media. Hadfield authored best-selling books and released a cover of 'Space Oddity' recorded in orbit. His public outreach and advocacy have inspired interest in space science worldwide.