Thomas P. Stafford
NASA astronaut and test pilot
Born
September 17th, 1930
94 years ago
Died
March 18th, 2024
0 years ago — 93 years old
Category
Explorers & Adventurers
Country
United States
Links & References
An American Air Force officer and test pilot, significant contributions came as a NASA astronaut during the Apollo program. Commanded the Apollo 10 mission, which served as a rehearsal for the first moon landing. Participated in the Gemini program, facilitating key advancements in spaceflight techniques. After retiring from NASA, held various positions in the aerospace industry, influencing future space exploration efforts.
Commanded Apollo 10, the lunar landing rehearsal
Manned Gemini 6A, achieving the first space rendezvous
Other People Born on September 17th
Kermit Washington
Played professional basketball in the NBA primarily for the Los Angeles Lakers and the Portland Trail Blazers. Competed in the NBA All-Star Game in 1975, showcasing talent during a prominent career. Involved in an infamous on-court incident in 1977 that led to a significant change in the league's approach to player conduct. Transitioned to a career in sports broadcasting after retiring from professional play.
Continue ReadingBaz Luhrmann
An Australian director, producer, and screenwriter, created visually distinctive films characterized by their unique style and storytelling. Received widespread attention for movies such as 'Strictly Ballroom', 'Romeo + Juliet', and 'Moulin Rouge!'. 'Moulin Rouge!' won multiple Academy Awards and showcased a rich blend of music and narrative. Also directed 'The Great Gatsby', which further emphasized a unique visual language. Works often combined elements from different genres and eras, showcasing a signature flair.
Continue ReadingDavid Craig
Born in 1929, an air marshal in the Royal Air Force, served in various operational and staff roles throughout a distinguished military career. Transitioned into politics, serving as a member of the House of Lords. Involved in defense policy-making and commentary on military matters. Contributed to discussions on national security and military strategy.
Continue ReadingJean-Marie Lustiger
Ordained a priest in 1954, served as the Archbishop of Paris from 1981 until retirement in 2005. Played a significant role in the Second Vatican Council and contributed to various theological discussions. Active in interfaith dialogue, particularly between Christianity and Judaism, as he was born to a Jewish family and converted to Catholicism. Participated in multiple synods and was influential in shaping the Church's approach to modern societal issues.
Continue ReadingDinah Sheridan
Born in 1920, this English actress gained prominence in the mid-20th century with a successful career in film and television. Roles included a notable part in the classic 1950 film 'Genevieve' and a memorable performance in the television series 'Please Sir!'. Over the years, her work spanned various genres, showcasing her adaptability and talent in portraying characters that resonated with audiences.
Continue ReadingRafael Israelyan
An Armenian architect and educator, contributed significantly to the architectural landscape of Armenia. Designed the Sardarapat Memorial, which commemorates the Armenian Battle of Sardarapat in 1920, emphasizing national identity and remembrance. Also designed St. Vartan Cathedral in New York City, a prominent structure serving the Armenian community abroad. Played a key role in educating future architects, influencing generations through teaching and mentorship.
Continue ReadingOther People Who Died on March 18th
Jean-Baptiste Bréval
Contributed to the repertoire for cello and piano, along with writing works for string quartets. Established a style that blended classical forms with expressive melodies, significantly influencing cello performance. Active during the late 18th and early 19th centuries, engaged with prominent musicians of the time and developed a pedagogical approach to teaching cello.
Continue ReadingLeigh Brackett
An American author and screenwriter, contributed significantly to the science fiction genre. Wrote for both literature and film, with notable works that include the screenplay for 'The Empire Strikes Back' and the story for 'The Big Sleep.' Established a reputation as a talented writer who blended elements of hard science fiction with adventure. Worked on various projects throughout the 20th century, leaving a lasting legacy within the genres of science fiction and film noir. Collaborated with prominent filmmakers and authors, enhancing the narratives of the works involved.
Continue ReadingAnselm of Lucca
Served as the bishop of Lucca and was an influential theologian during the 11th century. Contributed significantly to the development of scholasticism and wrote various works on faith and reason. Played a vital role in the church's relationship with the state, particularly during the Investiture Controversy. His theological writings emphasized the importance of faith and reason in understanding divine mysteries.
Continue ReadingKarl Kling
Acclaimed as a prominent figure in motorsports, participated in the Mille Miglia, an iconic endurance race, and secured a first-place finish in 1952. Competed extensively in sports car racing during the 1950s and drove for the Mercedes-Benz racing team, achieving significant success. Contributed to the advancement of racing technology and speed in the post-war era of motorsport.
Continue ReadingWilliam C. Durant
Founded General Motors in 1908 and played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the automotive industry. Launched Chevrolet in 1911, which became one of the most prominent automobile brands. Advocated for the development of innovative manufacturing techniques and established a network of dealerships that expanded automotive accessibility. Experienced ups and downs in the business world, including a period of bankruptcy in the 1930s before making a comeback. Durant's vision and leadership helped shape the modern automobile market.
Continue ReadingThomas Hopko
Ordained as a priest in the Orthodox Church, served as Dean of St. Vladimir's Orthodox Theological Seminary. Contributed significantly to the dialogue between Orthodox and other Christian traditions. Authored numerous theological works including 'The Orthodox Faith' series, which explores the essential beliefs and practices of the Orthodox Church. Actively engaged in teaching and lecturing on Orthodox theology across various settings.
Continue Reading