December 16

John FitzAlan, born in 1348, was created the 1st Baron Arundel and rose to prominence during the Hundred Years’ War. As Lord Marshal, he oversaw military logistics and led campaigns against the French. He balanced his martial responsibilities with political duties in the English court. Renowned for his chivalric reputation, he held significant estates and exerted influence in Sussex and Wales. His death in 1379 occurred while defending English interests abroad, and he was remembered as one of the kingdom’s foremost commanders of his era.

Born in 1453, Afonso de Albuquerque became a leading naval commander in the early Portuguese Empire. As the third Viceroy of India, he captured strategic ports like Goa and Malacca, securing maritime trade routes. His tactics combined naval power with diplomatic alliances and fortifications. Albuquerque promoted interfaith tolerance and mixed marriages to stabilize regions under Portuguese control. His administrative reforms laid the foundations for over a century of Portuguese dominance in the Indian Ocean. He died in 1515 on the voyage home, leaving a reputation as the 'Caesar of the East.'

Born in 1545 in Asan, Yi Sun-sin rose through the ranks of the Joseon navy to become its most celebrated admiral. He led his fleet with innovation, notably deploying the ironclad 'turtle ship' that helped secure decisive victories at battles such as Okpo and Hansan. His leadership and tactical genius were on display again at the Battle of Myeongnyang, where he repelled a vastly larger Japanese force. Yi's moral integrity and motivational prowess inspired his sailors, and he meticulously recorded his campaigns in the 'Nanjung Ilgi', a war diary valued by historians. Despite overwhelming odds, he maintained a perfect record at sea until his death in 1598 during the Battle of Noryang. His enduring legacy solidifies him as one of the greatest naval commanders in East Asian history.

Born to a prominent Puritan family in 1608, Nathaniel Fiennes supported the Parliamentary cause during the English Civil War, rising to the rank of colonel. He commanded Commonwealth forces and briefly served as Governor of Bristol, though he was later criticized for its surrender. Despite setbacks, he continued his political career, sitting in the House of Commons and supporting administrative reforms under Cromwell's Protectorate. Fiennes was noted for his diplomatic skills and moderate stance within Parliamentarian ranks. He was eventually restored to favor and held several local offices before his death in 1669. His contributions illustrate the complexities of civil conflict and governance in 17th-century England.

Born in 1700, Leopold II of Anhalt-Dessau, known as the 'Old Dessauer', served as a prominent commander under Frederick William I of Prussia. He implemented rigorous drill reforms and training methods that transformed the Prussian infantry into a highly disciplined force. His innovations included the introduction of mobile artillery units and the systematic use of the iron ramrod. Leopold's leadership in battles such as Mollwitz and Chotusitz helped secure Prussia's rising status in European power politics. Beyond the battlefield, he administered his principality with efficiency, promoting infrastructure and cultural projects. His dual role as both prince and military reformer cemented his reputation as a foundational figure in Prussia's military ascendancy.

Born in 1720, Sir William James inherited the baronetcy and pursued a career in the British Army, rising to command positions within his regiment. He later transitioned into politics, representing his constituency in the House of Commons and engaging in legislative matters of defense and colonial administration. James was known for balancing his military experience with parliamentary duties, advocating for veterans and helping to shape military funding. His dual roles reflected the interconnected nature of aristocratic duty and public service in Georgian Britain. He managed his estates effectively, supporting local charitable initiatives and infrastructure improvements. James's career exemplifies the life of a soldier-statesman during a period of expanding British influence.

Mitchell WerBell III was an American soldier, mercenary, and covert operator noted for his work in weapons development and private security training. Born in 1918, he served in the Office of Strategic Services during World War II and contributed to special operations weapon design. After the war, WerBell founded a private firm offering security consulting and training to military and intelligence agencies worldwide. He patented specialized suppressors and innovative firearms used in clandestine operations. His controversial career spanned multiple conflicts and left a mark on modern private military contracting.

Kakuei Tanaka (born 1918) rose from a modest background to become Japan's 64th Prime Minister (1972–1974). He earned the nickname "Construction State" for his ambitious infrastructure projects, including expanding the Shinkansen network. Tanaka's policies helped modernize rural areas and stimulate economic growth nationwide. His career was later overshadowed by the Lockheed bribery scandal, which led to his arrest. Despite controversies, his impact on Japan's rapid post-war development remains significant. He began his public service after a brief stint in the Imperial Japanese Army.

Stefan Heym (born 1913 in Chemnitz) fled Nazi Germany in 1934 and later served in the U.S. Army during World War II. After the war, he settled in East Germany and became a celebrated writer and journalist. His novels like 'The Eyes of Reason' and 'Goldsborough' critically examined authoritarian regimes. Heym was an outspoken political activist, challenging injustices in both East and West. His blend of personal experience and moral inquiry made his work a cornerstone of post-war German literature.

Melvin E. Biddle (1923–2010) was a U.S. Army corporal in the 3rd Infantry Division during World War II. In April 1945, he single-handedly destroyed multiple enemy positions near Untergriesheim, Germany, while rescuing wounded comrades. For his actions, he received the Medal of Honor from President Harry S. Truman. After the war, Biddle worked for the Pennsylvania Railroad and remained active in veterans' organizations. He was celebrated for his humility and commitment to honoring fellow servicemen.

James Flint (1913-2013) was an English commander in the British armed forces. Born in 1913, he devoted his career to military leadership. He held command roles and guided troops through key operations of the mid-20th century. Flint was respected for his strategic thinking and dedication to service. He lived to be 100, passing away on December 16, 2013, and left a legacy of commitment to duty.