Robert Hampton Gray
Canadian Lieutenant, Victoria Cross recipient
Born
1917
108 years ago
Died
Category
Military & Warriors
Country
Canada
Links & References
Served as a pilot in the Royal Canadian Navy during World War II. Played a crucial role in the Pacific Theater. Earned the Victoria Cross posthumously for bravery displayed in a mission against Japanese ships. Died during a battle while leading a successful attack on enemy vessels, exemplifying courage and dedication.
Received the Victoria Cross for valiant effort during an aerial attack
Led a successful strike against enemy ships in the Pacific War
Served with 1771 Squadron, Royal Canadian Navy
Other People Who Died on August 9th
Frank Gifford
American football player and sportscaster
Born
August 16th, 1930 95 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2015 10 years ago — 84 years old
Played in the National Football League as a halfback and wide receiver for the New York Giants from 1952 to 1964. Won the NFL Championship in 1956. Transitioned to sportscasting after retirement, working for ABC Sports and hosting the Weekend NFL Live and Monday Night Football. Acted in several television shows, including roles in The Twilight Zone and The Ed Sullivan Show.
Continue ReadingKayyar Kinhanna Rai
Indian journalist and poet
Born
June 8th, 1915 110 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2015 10 years ago — 100 years old
Born in 1915, this individual contributed significantly to journalism and literature in India. As an influential journalist, authored numerous articles and essays that shaped public discourse. Engaged deeply in poetry, published several collections that resonate with themes of nature and human experience. Actively participated in the literary community, promoting Kannada literature and culture through various platforms.
Continue ReadingRobert Lecourt
French lawyer and Lord Chancellor
Born
September 19th, 1908 117 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2004 21 years ago — 95 years old
A French lawyer, judge, and politician who served as the Lord Chancellor of France. His career in law spanned several decades, during which time he contributed to the French legal system and judiciary. Lecourt played a significant role in various legal reforms and held numerous positions within the French government. His tenure was marked by an emphasis on the importance of law and justice in society, providing guidance and leadership in legal matters. Lecourt's influence extended beyond the courtroom, participating in significant political discussions and decisions throughout his career.
Continue ReadingAndriy Bal
Ukrainian footballer and coach
Born
1958 67 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2014 11 years ago — 56 years old
Played professional football primarily as a midfielder during the 1980s and 1990s. Featured for teams including FC Karpaty Lviv and FC Dynamo Kyiv. Transitioned into coaching after retirement from professional play, influencing the next generation of players. Served as a coach for the Ukrainian national youth teams. Passed away in 2014.
Continue ReadingJames Van Allen
Physicist, Van Allen radiation belts
Born
September 7th, 1914 111 years ago
Died
August 9th, 2006 19 years ago — 91 years old
A physicist and philosopher, contributed significantly to space science and cosmic radiation research. Played a pivotal role in the early exploration of outer space through the development of scientific instruments. Led the team that created the first successful satellite, Explorer 1, in 1958, which discovered the Van Allen radiation belts. His work laid foundational knowledge for understanding Earth's magnetic field and its interaction with solar radiation.
Continue ReadingRuby Hurley
Civil rights activist and organizer
Born
November 7th, 1909 116 years ago
Died
August 9th, 1980 45 years ago — 70 years old
Active in the civil rights movement, focused on advocating for African American rights. Served as the first female executive secretary of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) in the late 1940s. Worked on the integration of schools and public facilities. Contributed to various campaigns to eliminate racial discrimination and promote social justice.
Continue Reading