Gary Gordon
American sergeant, Medal of Honor recipient
Served as a United States Army sniper during the Battle of Mogadishu in 1993. Displayed extraordinary bravery while providing cover for a helicopter crew and ground troops during an intense firefight in Somalia. Gordon and his team attempted to rescue downed soldiers despite overwhelming enemy fire. His actions during the mission resulted in a posthumous Medal of Honor, awarded for selfless service and bravery in combat. Gordon's dedication to duty and courage under fire highlighted the sacrifices made by military personnel in conflict.
Received the Medal of Honor posthumously in 1994
Participated in the Battle of Mogadishu
Other People Born on August 30th
Joe Staley
American football offensive tackle
Born
August 30th, 1984 41 years ago
Played as an offensive tackle in the National Football League (NFL) primarily for the San Francisco 49ers. Staley was drafted in the first round of the 2007 NFL Draft. Over a 13-season career, Staley became a key player for the 49ers, known for his protection skills and leadership on the field. He participated in multiple Pro Bowls and was recognized as an All-Pro player. Staley was part of the 49ers team that reached Super Bowl XLVII, where the team was defeated by the Baltimore Ravens.
Continue ReadingÉva Risztov
Hungarian swimmer, Olympic gold medalist
Born
August 30th, 1985 40 years ago
A Hungarian swimmer excelled in distance freestyle events, particularly in open water competitions. Competed in multiple European Championships and World Championships, securing medals in various events. Achieved significant success at the 2012 London Olympics by winning a gold medal in the women's 10 km open water race. Established a reputation as a prominent figure in Hungarian swimming.
Continue ReadingRyan Ross
Singer-songwriter and guitarist from Panic! At The Disco
Born
August 30th, 1986 39 years ago
A prominent singer-songwriter and guitarist, contributed to the rock band Panic! At The Disco. Co-founded the band in 2004 and played a key role in their early success with the debut album, 'A Fever You Can't Sweat Out', which included the hit single 'I Write Sins Not Tragedies'. After departing from the band in 2009, continued to create music with the project The Young Veins, exploring different musical styles. Also worked as a composer and lyricist, influencing the alternative rock genre with a unique blend of pop and emo influences.
Continue ReadingLeisel Jones
Australian swimmer and Olympic medalist
Born
August 30th, 1985 40 years ago
Achieved prominent success in competitive swimming, specializing in breaststroke. Won multiple Olympic medals, including three golds. Competed in four Olympic Games from 2000 to 2012, setting several world records in her discipline. Dominated various international championships, securing numerous titles and contributing significantly to Australian swimming.
Continue ReadingWill Davison
Race Car Driver; Bathurst 1000 Winner
Born
August 30th, 1982 43 years ago
Competed in Australia's Supercars Championship, achieving significant success throughout the career. Won the prestigious Bathurst 1000 race in 2016. Participated for various teams, including Ford Performance Racing and Erebus Motorsport. Demonstrated consistent high performance on various tracks across Australia, earning respect in the motorsport community.
Continue ReadingKamil Kosowski
Polish footballer with Wisła Kraków success
Born
August 30th, 1977 48 years ago
A footballer played primarily as a winger. Achievements include playing for Wisła Kraków and contributing to the team's successes during the late 1990s and early 2000s. Competed in various international matches representing the national team. Also played for several clubs in Poland and abroad, showcasing skills in both domestic and international football leagues.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on October 3rd
Florence Stanley
American actress in television and film
Born
July 1st, 1924 101 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 2003 22 years ago — 79 years old
An actress with a career spanning several decades, recognized for roles in television and film. Best known for portraying the character Edna in the sitcom 'Fish' and for the role of a grandmother in 'The Last Starfighter.' Also appeared in various guest roles on popular shows including 'The Golden Girls' and 'The Practice.' Stanley's performances displayed a range of comedic talent, contributing significantly to her memorable characters.
Continue ReadingLucy Hobbs Taylor
Dentist and educator, first woman graduate
Born
March 14th, 1833 192 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 1910 115 years ago — 77 years old
Became the first woman in the United States to graduate from a dental college in 1866. Established a successful dental practice in Iowa and later in Chicago. Played a role in advocating for women's rights within the field of dentistry. Contributed to the education of future dentists as an educator and mentor.
Continue ReadingElisabeth of Valois
Queen of Spain, wife of Philip II
Born
April 2nd, 1545 480 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 1568 457 years ago — 23 years old
Born in 1545, this individual became Queen of Spain through marriage to Philip II. The union was politically significant, strengthening ties between Spain and France. She spent much of her life in the Spanish royal court and played a crucial role in court life and politics during her time. A patron of the arts, she also influenced cultural developments in Spain. Elisabeth died in 1568 at a young age, and her legacy continues through her daughter, who eventually became Empress of Austria.
Continue ReadingBen Mondor
Canadian-American businessman, sports team owner
Born
March 26th, 1925 100 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 2010 15 years ago — 85 years old
Developed a career in business and sports management. Acquired the Pawtucket Red Sox, a Minor League Baseball team, in 1977, overseeing its rise in prominence within the league. Revitalized the team and contributed to the development of the local baseball community. Under leadership, the franchise achieved notable success, enhancing the fan experience and promoting baseball in the region.
Continue ReadingJean Anouilh
Playwright and screenwriter of "Antigone"
Born
June 23rd, 1910 115 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 1987 38 years ago — 77 years old
A prominent playwright and screenwriter, contributions to French theatre included a significant body of work that explored themes of moral ambiguity and the struggle between individual desires and societal expectations. Major works include the adaptation of Sophocles' "Antigone", which became a symbol of the resistance against authoritarianism during wartime. Anouilh's plays often blended tragedy with elements of absurdity, reflecting the complexities of human existence. His career spanned several decades, marked by both acclaim and controversy, as works addressed contemporary issues while drawing on classical influences.
Continue ReadingBenedict Groeschel
Priest and psychologist, talk show host
Born
July 23rd, 1933 92 years ago
Died
October 3rd, 2014 11 years ago — 81 years old
Ordained as a priest in the Franciscan order, contributed to mental health awareness through psychological practice and spiritual guidance. Hosted the show 'The Sunday Night Stay at Home' which focused on faith and spirituality. Founded the First Things organization to address cultural issues through a religious lens. Authored several books on spirituality and mental health, combining principles of psychology with Catholic teachings.
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