Ross A. McGinnis

American soldier, Medal of Honor recipient

Ross A. McGinnis - American soldier, Medal of Honor recipient
Born

1987
38 years ago

Died

December 4th, 2006
18 years ago — 19 years old

Category

Military & Warriors

Country

United States

Links & References

Served as a soldier in the United States Army during the Global War on Terror. Displayed extraordinary bravery during combat in Iraq. On December 4, 2006, while serving in a vehicle convoy, recognized an imminent threat to fellow soldiers and threw himself on a grenade to save their lives. This act of valor posthumously earned the Medal of Honor from the U.S. government.

Posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor

Served in the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment

Other People Who Died on December 4th

John Tyndall

Physicist and mountaineer in the UK
Born
August 2nd, 1820 204 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1893 131 years ago — 73 years old

A physicist and mountaineer, focused on atmospheric physics and the science of gases. Conducted groundbreaking experiments on the absorption of heat by gases. Authored 'Heat as a Mode of Motion', introducing key concepts in thermodynamics. Played a significant role in the establishment of the field of physical optics. Contributed to the understanding of light polarization and the theory of why the sky is blue. Engaged in mountaineering, often leading expeditions in the Alps and advocating for the sport.

Continue Reading

Charles Richet

French physiologist, Nobel Prize laureate
Born
August 25th, 1850 174 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1935 89 years ago — 85 years old

A French physiologist and occultist, contributions included significant research in physiology, particularly in the study of anaphylaxis. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1913 for work on immunity and allergies, which helped to advance the understanding of the body's immune response. Conducted various experiments that led to insights into the functioning of nervous systems and sensory perception. Engaged in scientific exploration of psychic phenomena and occult practices, publishing works on these subjects.

Continue Reading

Sonia Pierre

Human Rights Activist in Dominican Republic
Born
July 4th, 1963 61 years ago
Died
December 4th, 2011 13 years ago — 48 years old

Born in 1963, a human rights activist focused on the issues facing Haitian immigrants in the Dominican Republic. Founded the Movement of Haitian-Dominican Women to advocate for the rights of individuals of Haitian descent. Worked tirelessly to address discrimination and violence against this community. Involved in numerous campaigns for legal reforms and against deportations targeting individuals of Haitian ancestry. Authored reports and spoke widely on the violations of human rights faced by Haitian-Dominicans, contributing to international awareness of their struggles.

Continue Reading

Liam Clancy

Irish singer and actor, Clancy Brothers member
Born
1935 90 years ago
Died
December 4th, 2009 15 years ago — 74 years old

An influential figure in Irish folk music, contributed to the revival of traditional Irish songs during the 1960s. Co-founded The Clancy Brothers and Tommy Makem, a group that popularized Irish folk music internationally. Performed alongside notable figures, including Bob Dylan and Joan Baez. Acted in several films and television series, bringing Irish culture to wider audiences. His contributions to music and performance left a lasting legacy in the genre of folk.

Continue Reading

William Drummond of Hawthornden

Scottish poet and playwright
Born
December 13th, 1585 439 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1649 375 years ago — 63 years old

Born in 1585, this poet gained recognition for contributions to the literary world during the early 17th century. His work often explored themes of love and nature. One of the significant accomplishments includes the publication of 'Polemo-Middinia' in 1616, a collection of poems reflecting his philosophical and aesthetic ideals. Additionally, his verses were characterized by a personal touch and expressive language, setting a tone for later developments in Scottish poetry. He was also involved in the literary circle of his time, interacting with notable figures such as Ben Jonson. The poet's residence in Hawthornden, near Edinburgh, became a center of literary activity.

Continue Reading

Stefan George

German poet and translator
Born
July 12th, 1868 156 years ago
Died
December 4th, 1933 91 years ago — 65 years old

A prominent figure in German literature, celebrated for poetic works that explored themes of beauty, memory, and identity. Active during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, contributed to the Symbolist movement. Edited and published the influential literary journal 'Blätter für die Kunst', promoting modernist poetry and intellectual discourse. Translated works of notable poets, enhancing the visibility of foreign literature in German-speaking regions.

Continue Reading