November 17

Born in 1960 in Queens, New York, Farace became involved in street-level drug trafficking as a teenager. He cultivated connections within the Colombo crime family, rising quickly through the ranks. Farace was implicated in several violent incidents, including shootings and suspected contract killings. His criminal activities drew intense scrutiny from law enforcement during the late 1980s. In November 1989, he was fatally shot in a conflict over drug territory, marking a notorious end to his underworld career. He died at the age of 29, leaving behind a legacy of crime and controversy.

Born in 1915, Alfred Blake served as a colonel in the British Army during World War II. After the war, he pursued a legal career and was called to the Bar in England. He balanced his legal practice with community service and mentorship of young officers. Blake's dual commitment to military duty and the law defined his professional life. He passed away in 2013, leaving a respected legacy in both spheres.

Born in 1930, John T. Downey joined the CIA after graduating from Yale University. In 1952, he was part of a covert mission over China, was captured, and spent nearly two decades in Chinese prisons. Upon his release in 1971, he documented his experiences and became a symbol of resilience. He later passed the bar and served with distinction as a judge in New York. His life story exemplified perseverance and dedication to public service until his death in 2014.