Doris Miller

American soldier and cook in WWII

Doris Miller - American soldier and cook in WWII
Born

October 12th, 1919
105 years ago

Died

November 24th, 1943
81 years ago — 24 years old

Category

Military & Warriors

Country

United States

Links & References

Served in the United States Navy during World War II. Assigned to the USS West Virginia during the attack on Pearl Harbor. Displayed remarkable bravery by manning a machine gun, despite not being trained for such tasks. Awarded the Navy Cross for extraordinary heroism. Became the first African American to receive this honor in the Navy. Later became an icon of the contributions of African Americans in the military.

Manned a machine gun during the Pearl Harbor attack

Awarded the Navy Cross for bravery

Other People Born on October 12th

Mariano Trías

Filipino General and Vice President
Born
October 12th, 1868 156 years ago
Died
1914 111 years ago — 46 years old

Mariano Trías was a Filipino general and politician. As a key figure in the Philippine Revolution, he played significant roles in various military engagements against Spanish colonial rule. In the 1898 elections, he became the first Vice President of the Philippines under President Emilio Aguinaldo. After the Philippine-American War, Trías continued to serve the government in various capacities, including as a member of the Philippine Assembly. He was known for his efforts in promoting the Filipino cause for independence and governance during a tumultuous period in the country's history.

Continue Reading

George Thorn

Australian politician and Premier of Queensland
Born
October 12th, 1838 186 years ago
Died
January 15th, 1905 120 years ago — 66 years old

Served as the sixth Premier of Queensland from 1888 to 1890. Played a role in the development of the region's infrastructure and governance. Introduced significant railway expansions and land reforms during the tenure in office.

Continue Reading

Velvalee Dickinson

American spy during World War II
Born
October 12th, 1893 131 years ago
Died
1980 45 years ago — 87 years old

Engaged in espionage activities during World War II. Operated as a spy for Japan, using her position as a model and socialite in New York City to gather and relay vital intelligence. Managed to evade capture for a significant period, contributing to the complexities of wartime espionage. Arrested in 1944 and subsequently faced trial, which highlighted the dangers of espionage and its impact on national security.

Continue Reading

Juan Manuel Silva

Argentinian race car driver with championships
Born
October 12th, 1972 52 years ago

Born in 1972, a prominent figure in the world of motorsports, recognized for exceptional skills in touring car racing. Achieved significant success in the Argentine Turismo Carretera series, securing multiple championships throughout the career. Competed in various international events, representing Argentina on the global stage and becoming a well-regarded driver in the sport.

Continue Reading

Alan McDonald

Footballer and manager with notable clubs
Born
October 12th, 1963 61 years ago
Died
June 23rd, 2012 12 years ago — 48 years old

Played primarily as a defender, made significant contributions to teams like Queens Park Rangers and the national team of Northern Ireland. Transitioned into management after retiring as a player, guiding various club teams. Represented Northern Ireland at several international competitions, showcasing skill and teamwork throughout his career.

Continue Reading

Steve Austria

American lawyer and politician
Born
October 12th, 1958 66 years ago

Served as a member of the United States House of Representatives from Ohio's 7th congressional district from 2009 to 2011. Focused on issues such as healthcare, job creation, and fiscal responsibility during tenure. Prior to congressional service, practiced law and engaged in local politics. Elected to the Ohio House of Representatives, serving from 2003 to 2009. Actively participated in community initiatives and contributed to public policy discussions.

Continue Reading

Other People Who Died on November 24th

Ulrika Eleonora

Queen of Sweden during the Great Northern War
Born
1688 337 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1741 283 years ago — 53 years old

Served as Queen of Sweden from 1718 until abdication in 1720. Ascended the throne following the death of her brother, Charles XII. Focused on peace negotiations and rebuilding the nation after the Great Northern War. Abdicated in favor of her husband, who became King Frederick I. Spent later years in Germany, returning to Sweden occasionally.

Continue Reading

Lorenzo Ricci

Italian religious leader, Superior General
Born
August 2nd, 1703 321 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1775 249 years ago — 72 years old

Served as the 18th Superior General of the Society of Jesus from 1758 until death in 1775. Led the Jesuits during a time of significant suppression of the order in various countries. Navigated the challenges posed by secular powers, including the expulsion of Jesuits from territories like France, Portugal, and Spain. Contributed to the development of Jesuit educational and missionary activities despite the order's declining influence by the end of his leadership.

Continue Reading

Börje Salming

Ice Hockey player, Toronto Maple Leafs star
Born
April 17th, 1951 74 years ago
Died
November 24th, 2022 2 years ago — 71 years old

An accomplished ice hockey player and businessman, played predominantly for the Toronto Maple Leafs in the NHL. Originated from Sweden, he was a trailblazer for European players in North America. Achieved recognition for exceptional defensive skills and offensive contributions. Transitioned to a successful career in business after retirement from professional sports.

Continue Reading

Ruth Chatterton

American actress in film and theater
Born
December 24th, 1892 132 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1961 63 years ago — 68 years old

An American actress, Chatterton gained prominence in the early 20th century through her work in both film and theater. She began her career on stage, achieving success in Broadway productions. Transitioning to film, she starred in notable movies such as 'The Wishing Ring' and 'Madame X'. Chatterton was recognized for her talent and versatility in roles that highlighted complex female characters. Beyond her acting career, she also ventured into screenwriting and directing, contributing to the arts beyond performance.

Continue Reading

Anna Jarvis

Founder of Mother's Day in America
Born
May 1st, 1864 161 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1948 76 years ago — 84 years old

Founded Mother's Day as a holiday to honor mothers and their contributions. The first official celebration took place in 1908 in Grafton, West Virginia. Advocated for the recognition of the day on a national level. This effort led to Mother's Day being officially recognized in the United States in 1914. Later expressed concerns about the commercialization of the holiday and its deviation from its original intent.

Continue Reading

Barbara

French singer and songwriter
Born
June 9th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
November 24th, 1997 27 years ago — 67 years old

Born in 1930, this French singer gained prominence during the post-war years with a unique style blending chanson and jazz. Her career spanned several decades, characterized by deep, emotive lyrics and a distinctive voice. She released numerous albums, with significant popularity in the 1960s and 1970s. Her work often explored themes of love, loss, and memory. The singer captivated audiences through live performances, most notably at the Olympia in Paris, where emotional delivery created lasting impressions. The artist's legacy continues to influence contemporary French music.

Continue Reading