October 01

Born in 1547 as the illegitimate son of Holy Roman Emperor Charles V. John of Austria rose through the ranks of the Spanish navy and army. He achieved fame as commander of the Holy League fleet at the Battle of Lepanto, defeating the Ottoman navy. His victory secured Mediterranean trade routes and curbed Ottoman expansion. Later, he served as governor of the Spanish Netherlands during a turbulent period. John of Austria died suddenly in 1578, celebrated as one of Europe’s great naval heroes.

Girolamo Corner (1632–1690) was a member of the influential Corner family of Venice, holding senior political and military roles. He represented Venice as an ambassador to European courts, strengthening diplomatic ties. During the Great Turkish War, Corner commanded Venetian forces in campaigns against the Ottoman Empire. His leadership contributed to several key victories in Dalmatia and the Morea region. He later ascended to high offices within the Venetian Republic, including membership in the Council of Ten. Corner's blend of diplomacy and military skill exemplified the versatility of Venetian patricians of his era.

Curtis LeMay (1906–1990) was a United States Air Force general who played a pivotal role in developing strategic bombing tactics during World War II. As commander of XXI Bomber Command, he oversaw the firebombing of Japanese cities, a campaign that significantly impacted the war's outcome. After the war, he led the Strategic Air Command, strengthening America's nuclear deterrent during the early Cold War. LeMay served as Chief of Staff of the United States Air Force and was known for his outspoken advocacy of overwhelming air power. He later ran as the vice-presidential candidate on the American Independent Party ticket in 1968. His doctrines and leadership shaped U.S. military aviation and nuclear strategy for decades.

Shlomo Lahat was born in Berlin in 1927 and emigrated with his family to Mandatory Palestine during his childhood. He enlisted in the Israel Defense Forces and rose to the rank of major general, commanding key units during Israel's formative conflicts. In 1974 he was elected Mayor of Tel Aviv, a role he held for 19 years, leading extensive urban development and cultural projects. Known for his vibrant personality and open door policy, he earned the nickname 'Chich' among Tel Aviv residents. Lahat's initiatives helped transform the city into a modern and dynamic metropolis. He passed away on October 1, 2014, leaving an enduring impact on both Israel's military history and civic life.