Patrick Anthony Porteous

Scottish Colonel, Victoria Cross recipient

Patrick Anthony Porteous - Scottish Colonel, Victoria Cross recipient
Born

January 1st, 1918
107 years ago

Died

2000
25 years ago — 82 years old

Category

Military & Warriors

Country

United Kingdom

Links & References

Served as a colonel in the British Army and received the Victoria Cross for gallantry during World War II. His notable action took place at the Battle of Monte Cassino in Italy, where he displayed exceptional valor in the face of enemy fire. This act of bravery led to the awarding of the Victoria Cross, the highest military honor in the British and Commonwealth forces.

Received the Victoria Cross for bravery

Served during World War II

Fought at the Battle of Monte Cassino

Other People Born on January 1st

Nathaniel Peteru

Rugby league player for New Zealand
Born
January 1st, 1992 33 years ago

Professional rugby league player competed in the NRL and represented New Zealand at the international level. Played for teams such as the Gold Coast Titans and the New Zealand Warriors. Participated in various representative matches, showcasing skills in both club and international rugby.

Continue Reading

James Sinegal

American businessman, Costco co-founder
Born
January 1st, 1936 89 years ago

Co-founded a major membership warehouse club that revolutionized retail shopping. Built the company into one of the largest retailers in the world, known for its unique business model focusing on low prices and high-quality products. Oversaw rapid expansion and significant growth during tenure as CEO. Fostered a corporate culture centered on employee treatment and customer service.

Continue Reading

Grandmaster Flash

DJ and pioneer of hip hop culture
Born
January 1st, 1958 67 years ago

A pioneer in the hip hop genre, this individual revolutionized DJing techniques in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Formed the influential group Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five, which contributed significantly to the rise of hip hop music. The group gained acclaim for releases like 'The Message,' which addressed social issues through rap. Notable for developing techniques such as cutting, scratching, and backspinning which are now staples in DJ performances. The contributions to hip hop culture have been recognized with induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007, becoming the first hip hop group to receive this honor.

Continue Reading

Basil Dearden

Film director and screenwriter of 'The League of Gentlemen'
Born
January 1st, 1911 114 years ago
Died
1971 54 years ago — 60 years old

In the early 20th century, a distinguished English film director, producer, and screenwriter emerged. This individual gained recognition in the British film industry for directing several influential films. 'The League of Gentlemen' established a significant presence, blending humor and crime elements. Other notable works include 'Victim' and 'The Hill', both of which explored complex themes relevant to society. Throughout a prolific career spanning several decades, contributions to cinema included a focus on social issues and character-driven narratives. Collaborations with prominent actors and crews enhanced the quality and depth of the projects. The legacy left behind continues to influence filmmakers and audiences alike.

Continue Reading

Pavel Grachev

Russian General and Minister of Defence
Born
January 1st, 1948 77 years ago
Died
September 23rd, 2012 12 years ago — 64 years old

Born in 1948, served as the 1st Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation from 1992 to 1996. Played a significant role in the Chechen Wars during the 1990s, overseeing military operations. Transitioned into politics after military service, remaining an influential figure within the Russian military establishment. Contributed to military reforms and the restructuring of the armed forces during a critical period in post-Soviet Russia.

Continue Reading

Eugène-Anatole Demarçay

French chemist and academic
Born
January 1st, 1852 173 years ago
Died
1904 121 years ago — 52 years old

A prominent chemist and academic, contributed significantly to the field of chemistry, particularly in the study of rare earth elements. Served as a professor at the Sorbonne, where extensive research on newly discovered chemical elements took place. Discovered the element holmium and studied the spectral lines of several other rare earths, enhancing the understanding of atomic structure and interactions.

Continue Reading