Desmond Doss
Combat medic and Medal of Honor recipient
Served as a combat medic during World War II without carrying a weapon due to religious beliefs. Demonstrated exceptional bravery during the Battle of Hacksaw Ridge, rescuing numerous soldiers under heavy fire. Received the Medal of Honor in 1945 for valor and heroism in combat. His life inspired the 2016 film 'Hacksaw Ridge', which depicted his experiences.
Received the Medal of Honor
Saved 75 soldiers during the Battle of Hacksaw Ridge
Other People Born on February 7th
Milt Palacio
Basketball player and coach, NBA experience
Born
February 7th, 1978 48 years ago
A basketball player and coach with experience in the NBA, achieved recognition primarily for contributions to various teams. Played college basketball at Colorado State University, later transitioned to professional play in the NBA and overseas. Held coaching roles after retirement from playing, working with aspiring players to enhance their skills. Holds dual citizenship from the United States and Belize, representing Belize in international competitions.
Continue ReadingJörg Schneider
Swiss actor and author known for 'Wiiberchraft'
Born
February 7th, 1935 91 years ago
Died
2015 11 years ago — 80 years old
Born in 1935, this Swiss actor built a career in theatre and television, with significant contributions to Swiss entertainment. Gained popularity through participation in the television series 'Wiiberchraft' and performed on stage in various productions. Additionally, authored several works that reflect regional culture and themes. Engaged in efforts to promote Swiss literature and arts.
Continue ReadingGiuseppe Baresi
Italian footballer and manager
Born
February 7th, 1958 68 years ago
Played as a defender for A.C. Milan and the Italian national team. Transitioned to management after retiring as a player. Served as a coach for youth teams and had stints as a manager in various clubs. Represented Italy in international competitions during the 1980s. Helped Milan secure several Serie A titles and achieve European success.
Continue ReadingAlan Lancaster
Bass Player and Songwriter for Status Quo
Born
February 7th, 1949 77 years ago
Died
2022 4 years ago — 73 years old
Born in England and later based in Australia, a prominent bass player and songwriter contributed significantly to the rock band Status Quo. The band became notable for its distinctive sound and energetic performances. Gained recognition through numerous chart-topping hits and enduring popularity, especially during the 1970s and 1980s. Participated in many successful albums and tours, solidifying the band’s legacy in rock music. Continues to be remembered for the musical contributions made during an influential era in rock history.
Continue ReadingHéctor Babenco
Film director and producer of 'Pixote'
Born
February 7th, 1946 80 years ago
Died
2016 10 years ago — 70 years old
An Argentinian-Brazilian director, producer, and screenwriter, contributed significantly to cinema with a focus on social issues. Began career in theater, transitioned to film in the 1970s. Directed films blending personal storytelling with broader societal themes. Achievements include multiple awards at Cannes Film Festival and an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film. Influenced a generation of filmmakers in Latin America and beyond.
Continue ReadingChristian Drobits
Austrian politician and local leader
Born
February 7th, 1968 58 years ago
Austrian politician served in various capacities within local government. Played a significant role in advancing community initiatives and policies, with a focus on urban development and public services. Held positions that facilitated collaboration between governmental bodies and citizens. Participated actively in local elections, representing a vision for sustainable development and community engagement.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 23rd
Naji Talib
Iraqi Politician, 52nd Prime Minister
Born
1917 109 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2012 14 years ago — 95 years old
Served as the 52nd Prime Minister of Iraq, holding office during a critical period following the fall of Saddam Hussein's regime. Focused on rebuilding governmental institutions and addressing the challenges of political transition in post-war Iraq. Led efforts to stabilize the economy and restore public services in a nation facing significant social and political upheaval.
Continue ReadingJoe Garagiola
Baseball Player and Sports Broadcaster
Born
February 12th, 1926 100 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2016 10 years ago — 90 years old
Played as a catcher in Major League Baseball from 1946 to 1954, primarily with the St. Louis Cardinals, New York Giants, and Chicago Cubs. Transitioned to sports broadcasting after retirement, becoming a prominent commentator. Served as a host for the television game show 'The Today Show' along with baseball coverage on NBC. Authored a memoir titled 'Baseball is a Funny Game', reflecting on experiences in the sport.
Continue ReadingMiroslava Breach
Investigative Journalist and Reporter
Born
1962 64 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2017 9 years ago — 55 years old
An investigative journalist from Mexico specialized in drug trafficking and organized crime. Breach worked for multiple publications, including the newspaper, La Jornada. Focused on issues impacting the Mexican border region, she reported on violence and corruption linked to the drug wars. Breach received recognition for her courage in facing threats while covering sensitive issues. Tragically, her career was cut short when she was murdered in 2017, highlighting the dangers faced by journalists in Mexico.
Continue ReadingEric Medlen
Race Car Driver, NHRA Funny Car Champion
Born
August 13th, 1973 53 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2007 19 years ago — 33 years old
A race car driver competed primarily in the NHRA Funny Car division. Medlen drove for John Force Racing during his career. Achieved significant success on the track with multiple wins. Tragically passed away in 2007 following an accident during testing. His contributions to the sport left a lasting legacy within the NHRA community.
Continue ReadingAbdullahi Yusuf Ahmed
Somali President and politician
Born
1934 92 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2012 14 years ago — 78 years old
Served as President of Somalia from 2004 to 2008, leading the Transitional Federal Government during a period of political instability. Held the position of the military leader of the Somali National Alliance and played a significant role in the civil war. Worked towards establishing a federal government and promoting peace in the region.
Continue ReadingJim Duffy
Animator, director, and producer of films
Born
1937 89 years ago
Died
March 23rd, 2012 14 years ago — 75 years old
An American animator, director, and producer, focused primarily on animated shorts and television series. Directed episodes of the animated series DuckTales and provided production work for various Disney projects. Worked on numerous animated films through his career, contributing to the art of animation and storytelling.
Continue Reading