November 24

Born into Russian nobility in 1729, Alexander Suvorov began his military career at age 15. He distinguished himself in the Seven Years' War and multiple Russo-Turkish Wars, earning rapid promotion. In 1799, he led Russian and Austrian forces against the French, famously crossing the Alps to outmaneuver the enemy. Suvorov emphasized speed, surprise, and troop morale, principles he codified in 'The Science of Victory.' His undefeated record and innovative tactics made him one of Russia's most revered military commanders. In recognition of his achievements, he was appointed Generalissimo in 1799 and died in 1800.

Born in 1784 on a Virginia plantation, Taylor embarked on a distinguished military career in the U.S. Army. He gained national fame as a general during the War of 1812 and later for his decisive victories at Palo Alto and Buena Vista in the Mexican–American War. His popularity and reputation as a war hero propelled him to the presidency in 1849 as a member of the Whig Party. During his tenure, he faced intense debate over the expansion of slavery into new territories. Taylor’s presidency was cut short by his sudden death in 1850 after serving only 16 months in office. Despite his brief time in the White House, his leadership style and record of service left a lasting mark on American political history.

Óscar Carmona, born in 1869, was a career military officer who rose to the rank of field marshal before entering politics. After the 1926 coup d’état, he became president and helped establish the Estado Novo regime under António de Oliveira Salazar. Serving for 25 years, Carmona provided continuity and stability, overseeing modernization efforts and maintaining neutrality during World War II. His long tenure shaped mid-20th-century Portuguese politics, and he remained in office until his death in 1951.

Born in 1885, Christian Wirth became an early and zealous member of the Nazi Party and SS. He served in the Gestapo and oversaw police operations in occupied Poland, implementing brutal measures against Jews and resistance members. Wirth was the first commandant of the Belzec extermination camp, where he refined mass killing techniques. He later directed Aktion Reinhard, the deadliest phase of the Holocaust, coordinating multiple death camps. He was killed in action in 1944, remembered as one of the most ruthless architects of Nazi genocide.

Erich von Manstein was born in 1887 and became one of Germany's most respected military strategists. He commanded Army Group South during World War II, leading successful campaigns in Poland, France, and on the Eastern Front. Manstein authored the famous "Manstein Plan" that encircled Allied forces in France and later influenced German tactics in the Soviet Union. Known for his operational ingenuity, he earned both admiration and controversy for his role in high-command decision-making. After the war, he was convicted of war crimes by a British tribunal but released in 1953. He spent his later years writing his memoirs and contributing to military journals before his death in 1973.

Charles Schneeman (1912–1972) was an American soldier and illustrator. He combined his military service with a talent for drawing, creating sketches of daily life in the armed forces. His artwork captured both the hardship and camaraderie experienced by soldiers. Schneeman’s illustrations provided a unique visual record of mid-20th-century military life. After his service, he continued to draw, mentoring others in the craft of illustrative storytelling. His legacy endures through images that bridge art and history.

Forrest J Ackerman (1916–2008) was an American soldier, author, and literary agent revered as the founding father of modern science fiction fandom. After serving in World War II, he co-founded the Futurians and launched influential fanzines that connected genre enthusiasts. Ackerman coined the term 'sci-fi' and curated one of the world's largest collections of science fiction memorabilia. In 1958, he created Famous Monsters of Filmland magazine, inspiring generations of fans and filmmakers. As a literary agent, he represented authors such as Ray Bradbury and Frank Herbert. His passion for the genre and lifelong advocacy earned him numerous awards and lifetime achievement honors.

Ron Dellums was a United States Marine Corps veteran and progressive politician dedicated to social justice. He served 27 years in the U.S. House representing California's 9th district (1971–1998), championing anti-war and civil rights legislation. Dellums co-founded the Congressional Black Caucus, giving a stronger voice to African American lawmakers. After Congress, he became the 48th Mayor of Oakland (2007–2011), focusing on urban revitalization and public safety. Known for his integrity and grassroots style, he advocated for affordable housing and criminal justice reform. He retired in 2011 and died in 2018, remembered as a trailblazer for progressive causes in American politics.