Alan Shepard
Astronaut, Apollo 14 Commander
An American astronaut and test pilot, made history by becoming the first American in space in 1961 during the Freedom 7 mission. Commanded the Apollo 14 mission in 1971, which successfully landed on the Moon, conducting two lunar EVAs and collecting valuable geological samples. Instrumental in testing various experimental aircraft and spacecraft, advancing human spaceflight efforts.
First American in space in 1961
Commander of Apollo 14 mission
Second human to walk on the Moon
Other People Born on November 18th
Matt Welsh
Australian Olympic swimmer
Born
November 18th, 1976 49 years ago
Competed in swimming events, representing Australia in international competitions. Achieved notable success at the 2000 Sydney Olympics, where earned a bronze medal in the 100 meters backstroke event. Secured multiple gold medals at the Commonwealth Games and was recognized for excellence in the sport during his active years. Retired from competitive swimming and later transitioned into sports commentary and analysis, contributing insights into the sport.
Continue ReadingMichael Dawson
English footballer and defender
Born
November 18th, 1983 42 years ago
Played as a central defender primarily for Tottenham Hotspur and Hull City. Made over 250 appearances for Tottenham from 2005 to 2014, contributing to the team's success in domestic competitions. Served as captain of Hull City, leading the team in the Premier League and reaching the FA Cup final in 2014. Represented England at various youth levels and earned several caps for the senior national team.
Continue ReadingShea Langeliers
Baseball player; 2021 Golden Spikes Award
Born
November 18th, 1997 28 years ago
Drafted by the Atlanta Braves in 2019, excelled as a catcher. Played in the 2021 Minor League Baseball All-Star Game. Achieved notable success at the collegiate level with Baylor University, earning the 2021 Golden Spikes Award, which recognizes the top amateur baseball player in the United States. Made MLB debut with the Oakland Athletics in 2022, showcasing skills in hitting and defensive play.
Continue ReadingAhmed Kelly
Iraqi-Australian swimmer and Paralympian
Born
November 18th, 1991 34 years ago
Born in Iraq and later relocating to Australia, a swimmer competed in various international competitions, primarily focusing on the 100m freestyle and 100m butterfly events. Overcame significant challenges stemming from a congenital disability to pursue a swimming career. Achieved recognition in the Paralympics, participating in the 2012 London Games and 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games. Engaged in advocacy for athletes with disabilities and contributed to raising awareness about inclusivity in sports.
Continue ReadingLuka Romero
Footballer; youngest La Liga debutant
Born
November 18th, 2004 21 years ago
Born in 2004, this footballer started playing at a young age, demonstrating talent and skill on the field. Romero made history by debuting in La Liga at just 15 years old while playing for Mallorca. This achievement garnered attention for his youth and potential in professional football. He also represented Argentina at the youth international level, showcasing promising performances that indicated a bright future in the sport.
Continue ReadingBernhard Luxbacher
Austrian footballer and midfielder
Born
November 18th, 1994 31 years ago
Austrian footballer played as a midfielder. Started professional career with Sturm Graz, making numerous appearances for the first team. Later moved to teams like SC Wiener Neustadt and SKU Amstetten, contributing to their midfield strength. Played in the Austrian Football Bundesliga and had experience in lower divisions.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on July 21st
James D. Ramage
American admiral and naval aviator
Born
1916 110 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2012 13 years ago — 96 years old
An American admiral and naval aviator served the United States Navy. Contributed significantly during the Vietnam War, leading aviation squadrons in combat operations. Played a crucial role in various naval operations and training programs. Graduated from the United States Naval Academy, achieving a prominent career in naval aviation. Served in key leadership positions within the naval aviation community, guiding future generations of aviators and ensuring operational readiness.
Continue ReadingJohn Davies
Runner and coach, 1974 Commonwealth Games
Born
1938 88 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2003 22 years ago — 65 years old
Born in England and later settled in New Zealand, a middle-distance runner became notable for competitive achievements in the 1970s. Won a bronze medal in the men's 1500 meters at the 1974 Commonwealth Games in Christchurch while representing New Zealand. Transitioned into coaching, focusing on developing young athletes in New Zealand. Contributed significantly to the athletics community through mentorship and training programs.
Continue ReadingLong John Baldry
Singer-songwriter and voice actor
Born
January 12th, 1941 85 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2005 20 years ago — 64 years old
A prominent singer-songwriter and voice actor, contributions spanned several genres, especially blues and rock. Career began in London during the 1960s, leading to significant popularity and influence. Helped introduce a generation to blues music through performances and recordings. Collaborated with various artists, infusing traditional sounds with contemporary styles. Later moved to Canada, where continued to perform and record music. Also took on voice acting roles in animated series, including contributions to projects such as 'The Raccoons'.
Continue ReadingMarie Kruckel
American baseball player, All-American Girls Professional Baseball League
Born
1924 102 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2012 13 years ago — 88 years old
A professional baseball player competed in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League from 1944 to 1954. Primarily played as an outfielder. Contributed to the success of the Chicago Blue Sox and the Fort Wayne Daisies. Retired from baseball to pursue other interests but remained involved with the league and its legacy.
Continue ReadingRobert Broberg
Swedish singer-songwriter with popular songs
Born
1940 86 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2015 10 years ago — 75 years old
Born in Sweden, a career spanned several decades in the music industry. Gained popularity for unique musical style and humorous lyrics. Released numerous albums, achieving significant success within the Swedish music scene. Songs often reflected a blend of folk, pop, and rock influences. His performances included engaging narratives and comedic elements, making them memorable for audiences. Continued to perform and record music until the later years of life. Left behind a legacy of beloved songs that resonate with fans.
Continue ReadingDick Nanninga
Dutch footballer and World Cup participant
Born
1949 77 years ago
Died
July 21st, 2015 10 years ago — 66 years old
A professional footballer from the Netherlands, played primarily as a striker. Achievements included playing for several clubs, including FC Groningen and Fortuna Sittard. Represented the national team in major tournaments, contributing to the squad's performance in the 1974 FIFA World Cup. Accumulated a reputation for his goal-scoring abilities during club and international matches.
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