Fred Hargesheimer

American soldier and pilot

Fred Hargesheimer - American soldier and pilot
Born

1916
109 years ago

Died

December 23rd, 2010
14 years ago — 94 years old

Category

Military & Warriors

Country

United States

Links & References

Served as a pilot in the United States Army Air Forces during World War II. Elected to fly bombing missions over enemy territory in the Pacific Theater. After sustaining serious injuries and being captured, escaped captivity and evaded enemy forces in Japanese-occupied territory. Contributed to the war effort through daring acts of bravery and resilience. Awarded the Air Medal and Purple Heart for valor.

Flying bombing missions in WWII

Evasion of Japanese forces after capture

Other People Who Died on December 23rd

Sebastian Shaw

English actor and playwright of 'Star Wars'
Born
May 29th, 1905 119 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1994 30 years ago — 89 years old

An English actor and playwright, activities spanned theater and film. Directed and produced various stage productions, contributing to the performing arts. Best recognized for portraying the character Anakin Skywalker in 'Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi'. In theater, earned respect for plays written and directed. Active in the industry from the 1930s until the 1980s.

Continue Reading

Augustus Hervey

Admiral and Chief Secretary for Ireland
Born
May 19th, 1724 300 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1779 245 years ago — 55 years old

Served as an English admiral and politician. Held the title of 3rd Earl of Bristol. Acted as Chief Secretary for Ireland from 1766 to 1768, facilitating governance during a significant period. Had an extensive naval career, participating in various battles and expeditions. Additionally, contributed to the political landscape of the time through participation in parliamentary duties.

Continue Reading

Robert L. Howard

American colonel, Medal of Honor recipient
Born
1939 86 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2009 15 years ago — 70 years old

Served in the United States Army for over three decades. Received the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism during the Vietnam War in 1968. Participated in multiple combat operations and was recognized for valiant actions despite severe injuries. After retirement, held various positions related to veteran affairs and continued to advocate for military personnel.

Continue Reading

Mdungazwe Ngungunyane Nxumalo

Last emperor of the Gaza Empire
Died
December 23rd, 1906 118 years ago — None years old

Ruled as the last emperor of the Gaza Empire during the late 19th century, highlighting a significant period in the history of southern Africa. Emerged as a prominent figure amid colonial pressures and conflicts. Engaged in resistance against British expansion, leading his people in military confrontations. His reign was marked by attempts to maintain sovereignty for the Gaza Empire against external threats. Following defeat by British forces, succumbed to exile after 1897 and faced the dissolution of the Gaza Empire. Died in 1906.

Continue Reading

Kurt Meyer

German general during World War II
Born
December 23rd, 1910 114 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 1961 63 years ago — 51 years old

Born in Germany, a military officer played a significant role during World War II. Commanded the 12th SS Panzer Division Hitlerjugend, which was involved in several key battles, including the Normandy invasion. Participated in the defense of the Eastern Front and held various leadership positions throughout the conflict. After the war, faced war crime charges for actions taken during military operations.

Continue Reading

Yao Wenyuan

Chinese politician and writer
Born
1931 94 years ago
Died
December 23rd, 2005 19 years ago — 74 years old

A prominent figure in the Chinese Cultural Revolution, held a key role as a member of the Gang of Four. Worked as a political theorist and author, significantly contributing to revolutionary literature. Played a part in formulating cultural policies and critiquing artistic expressions. After the fall of the Gang of Four, faced arrest and was later convicted of counter-revolutionary activities.

Continue Reading