Mervyn S. Bennion
American captain, Medal of Honor recipient

Born
May 5th, 1887
137 years ago
Died
1941
84 years ago — 54 years old
Category
Military & Warriors
Country
United States
Links & References
Served as a captain in the United States Navy during World War II. Demonstrated exceptional leadership and bravery while serving on the USS West Virginia during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Contributed significantly to the battle effort despite severe injuries sustained during the attack. Posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for extraordinary heroism in action against enemy forces.
Received the Medal of Honor for valor
Served on the USS West Virginia
Other People Born on May 5th
Scott Westerfeld
An accomplished author and composer, contributions include the Uglies series, a dystopian young adult fiction that explores themes of conformity and beauty standards. Additionally, the Leviathan trilogy, a steampunk novel set during World War I, garnered critical acclaim for its imaginative storytelling and historical context. Engagement in the literary community has included speaking at schools and conventions, promoting literacy and writing.
Continue ReadingLeon Czolgosz
Born in 1873, became an assassin of U.S. President William McKinley. Czolgosz was influenced by anarchist ideology and believed in the necessity of violent action to challenge authority. He approached McKinley during a public event in Buffalo, New York, in September 1901 and shot him twice. McKinley succumbed to his injuries days later. Czolgosz was arrested, tried, and convicted of murder. His execution took place in 1902 in the electric chair.
Continue ReadingHenri Konan Bédié
Served as the second President of Côte d'Ivoire from 1993 to 1999. Held various governmental positions before presidency, including being the Minister of Finance and the Minister of State. Played a significant role in the Ivorian political landscape during the 1990s. Led the country through a tumultuous period that included handling economic challenges and political unrest. After being ousted in a coup, lived in exile for several years before returning to Ivory Coast to continue involvement in politics.
Continue ReadingEugénie de Montijo
Born in 1826, the daughter of a Spanish nobleman, became empress consort of France through marriage to Napoleon III in 1853. Held the title until the fall of the Second Empire in 1870. Advocated for various charitable causes and played a significant role in the arts, fashion, and the cultural life of France during her reign. After the dethronement of her husband, lived in exile in England before returning to France in later years. Passed away in 1920.
Continue ReadingSøren Kierkegaard
A 19th-century philosopher and writer, influential in existentialism and theology. Introduced concepts such as angst, despair, and the stages of life: aesthetic, ethical, and religious. Authored significant texts including 'Either/Or', 'Fear and Trembling', and 'The Sickness Unto Death'. His writings addressed individual experience and the human condition, often emphasizing personal faith over institutionalized religion. Kierkegaard's thoughts on choice, freedom, and responsibility laid groundwork for later existential philosophers and theologians.
Continue ReadingFerdinand von Richthofen
A prominent geographer and academic, contributed significantly to the fields of geography and geology. Developed the concept of 'geoecology' and emphasized the relationship between geographic factors and human activity. Conducted extensive explorations in China, mapping the region and studying its geology. Authored 'China: Ergebnisse einer Reise,' which detailed the findings from his travels and research. His work laid the foundation for modern geographical research in Asia and influenced future studies.
Continue Reading