May 26
Albert, Eddie
b. April 22, 1906 d. May 26, 2005
Actor. Born Edward Albert Heimberger, he is best remembered for his role of lawyer-turned-farmer ‘Oliver Wendell Douglas' on the classic television comedy series "Green Acres". His career began on radio, and appeared on the earliest test for television in 1936. He made his motion picture debut in the military academy comedy "Brother Rat" in 1938, and went on to co-star in "Brother Rat and a Baby" and "Four Wives" in 1939. Cause of death: Pneumonia.
Pollack, Sydney
b. July 1, 1934 d. May 26, 2008
Actor, producer and Academy Award winning motion picture director. He won two Oscars for his work on the 1986 film "Out of Africa." Born in Lafayette, Indiana to a family of Russian Jewish immigrants, his father, David Pollack was a professional boxer who had become a pharmacist, while his mother, Rebecca Miller, was a homemaker. While very young, his parents divorced, and his mother, an alcoholic, died when he was 16. Cause of death: Cancer.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Monday, May 25, 2009
Died On This Date
May 25
Reilly, Charles Nelson
b. January 13, 1931 d. May 25, 2007
Actor, Director, Comedian, Entertainer. Fondly remembered for his numerous appearances on the 1970s game show "Match Game." Cause of death: Complications of pneumonia.
Reilly, Charles Nelson
b. January 13, 1931 d. May 25, 2007
Actor, Director, Comedian, Entertainer. Fondly remembered for his numerous appearances on the 1970s game show "Match Game." Cause of death: Complications of pneumonia.
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Died On This Date
May 24
Ellington, Duke (Edward Kennedy)
b. April 29, 1899 d. May 24, 1974
Jazz Legend. Jazz composer, bandleader and pianist, often referred to as America's most prolific composer of the twentieth century. His written contributions are almost innumerable: thousands of songs and dozens of works in symphonic form, as well as complete scores for ballet, theater and film. His artistic development and sustained achievement are among the most spectacular in the history of music. Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington was born in April of 1899 into a black middle-class family. Cause of death: Lung cancer and pneumonia.
Martin, Dick
b. January 30, 1922 d. May 24, 2008
Entertainer, Director. Born in Battle Creek, Michigan, he is best known as half of the team "Rowan & Martin," the long-time comedy act formed with his partner, Dan Rowan, in the 1950s. He was originally a writer for a radio sit-com "Duffy's Tavern" before teaming with Rowan. The two played nightclubs and Las Vegas which resulted in his 1962 role on "The Lucy Show". Cause of death: Respiratory complications.
Ellington, Duke (Edward Kennedy)
b. April 29, 1899 d. May 24, 1974
Jazz Legend. Jazz composer, bandleader and pianist, often referred to as America's most prolific composer of the twentieth century. His written contributions are almost innumerable: thousands of songs and dozens of works in symphonic form, as well as complete scores for ballet, theater and film. His artistic development and sustained achievement are among the most spectacular in the history of music. Edward Kennedy "Duke" Ellington was born in April of 1899 into a black middle-class family. Cause of death: Lung cancer and pneumonia.
Martin, Dick
b. January 30, 1922 d. May 24, 2008
Entertainer, Director. Born in Battle Creek, Michigan, he is best known as half of the team "Rowan & Martin," the long-time comedy act formed with his partner, Dan Rowan, in the 1950s. He was originally a writer for a radio sit-com "Duffy's Tavern" before teaming with Rowan. The two played nightclubs and Las Vegas which resulted in his 1962 role on "The Lucy Show". Cause of death: Respiratory complications.
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Died On This Date
May 23
Kidd, Capt. William
b. 1645 d. May 23, 1701
Legendary pirate. He was born in Greenock, Scotland. He emigrated to New York. During trip to England, Kidd was offered a privateer's commission for the purpose of attacking pirates by noble lords. Kidd had to sell his ship the Antigua to raise funds. The new ship, the Adventure Galley, was equipped with 34 cannons and 150 men. However Kidd’s enterprise was not a success.
Rockefeller Sr., John D.
b. July 8, 1839 d. May 23, 1937
American financier, oil magnate and philanthropist. Best known as the patriarch of the socially prominent Rockefeller family of New York, founder of the Standard Oil Company and founder of the Rockefeller Foundation. He was born John Davison Rockefeller on July 8, 1839 in Richford, New York, the son of William Avery Rockefeller, a traveling quack doctor, and Eliza Davison Rockefeller, who was very religious and disciplined. She taught John D. to work, to save, and to give to charities.
Parker, Bonnie
b. October 1, 1910 d. May 23, 1934
Legendary Outlaw. She was the middle child and oldest daughter of Henry and Emma Parker. After the death of her father in 1914, her mother moved the family to the West Dallas area called “Cement City.” In her youth, she was known for being kind, an Honor Student and a writer of poetry (and other creative writing endeavors). In 1926, She married high-school sweetheart Roy Thornton. Despite the rocky and sometimes abusive marriage and Roy’s imprisonment in 1929, she remained married to him. Cause of death: Shot to death with Clyde Barrow by officers in an ambush near Sailes, Bienville Parish, Louisiana.
Barrow, Clyde
b. March 24, 1909 d. May 23, 1934
Outlaw. His first crime was auto theft in 1926. He met partner Bonnie Parker when he was on parole in 1932. During two years of kidnapping and robbery they killed 12 people. He and Bonnie were shot and killed by Texas Rangers near Gibsland, Louisiana.
Kidd, Capt. William
b. 1645 d. May 23, 1701
Legendary pirate. He was born in Greenock, Scotland. He emigrated to New York. During trip to England, Kidd was offered a privateer's commission for the purpose of attacking pirates by noble lords. Kidd had to sell his ship the Antigua to raise funds. The new ship, the Adventure Galley, was equipped with 34 cannons and 150 men. However Kidd’s enterprise was not a success.
Rockefeller Sr., John D.
b. July 8, 1839 d. May 23, 1937
American financier, oil magnate and philanthropist. Best known as the patriarch of the socially prominent Rockefeller family of New York, founder of the Standard Oil Company and founder of the Rockefeller Foundation. He was born John Davison Rockefeller on July 8, 1839 in Richford, New York, the son of William Avery Rockefeller, a traveling quack doctor, and Eliza Davison Rockefeller, who was very religious and disciplined. She taught John D. to work, to save, and to give to charities.
Parker, Bonnie
b. October 1, 1910 d. May 23, 1934
Legendary Outlaw. She was the middle child and oldest daughter of Henry and Emma Parker. After the death of her father in 1914, her mother moved the family to the West Dallas area called “Cement City.” In her youth, she was known for being kind, an Honor Student and a writer of poetry (and other creative writing endeavors). In 1926, She married high-school sweetheart Roy Thornton. Despite the rocky and sometimes abusive marriage and Roy’s imprisonment in 1929, she remained married to him. Cause of death: Shot to death with Clyde Barrow by officers in an ambush near Sailes, Bienville Parish, Louisiana.
Barrow, Clyde
b. March 24, 1909 d. May 23, 1934
Outlaw. His first crime was auto theft in 1926. He met partner Bonnie Parker when he was on parole in 1932. During two years of kidnapping and robbery they killed 12 people. He and Bonnie were shot and killed by Texas Rangers near Gibsland, Louisiana.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Died On This Date
May 22
Washington, Martha
b. June 21, 1731 d. May 22, 1802
First of America's First Ladies. Martha Washington was born on a plantation near Williamsburg, Virginia. Typical for a girl in that day and age, her education was negligible except in domestic and social skills. She was a wealthy widow and mother of two when she married Colonel George Washington who had fought in the Indian wars and was active in Virginia politics. Martha followed George from camp to camp during the Revolutionary war weathering harsh winters and danger.
Hugo, Victor
b. February 26, 1802 d. May 22, 1885
One of the most powerful and popular authors of 19th-century France, and a champion of republicanism, exiled during the reign of Napoleon III and returned in 1870. Major works include "Notre-Dame" and "Les Miserables", and a large body of poetry. His death, and the spontaneous national mourning which followed, inspired the French government to "reinvent" the Pantheon as a homage to the great men (and, eventually, women) of France. Entered Pantheon 1885.
Washington, Martha
b. June 21, 1731 d. May 22, 1802
First of America's First Ladies. Martha Washington was born on a plantation near Williamsburg, Virginia. Typical for a girl in that day and age, her education was negligible except in domestic and social skills. She was a wealthy widow and mother of two when she married Colonel George Washington who had fought in the Indian wars and was active in Virginia politics. Martha followed George from camp to camp during the Revolutionary war weathering harsh winters and danger.
Hugo, Victor
b. February 26, 1802 d. May 22, 1885
One of the most powerful and popular authors of 19th-century France, and a champion of republicanism, exiled during the reign of Napoleon III and returned in 1870. Major works include "Notre-Dame" and "Les Miserables", and a large body of poetry. His death, and the spontaneous national mourning which followed, inspired the French government to "reinvent" the Pantheon as a homage to the great men (and, eventually, women) of France. Entered Pantheon 1885.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Died On This Date
May 21
Cartland, Barbara
b. July 9, 1901 d. May 21, 2000
Author. Aviation pioneer. British political and society figure. Dame Barbara Cartland was born into a middle class family, and showed writing talent from an early age; her first job as a gossip columnist for The Daily Express was followed by her first novel, "Jigsaw", in 1923. By the time her career ended, she had published 657 books, making her, according to the 1983 edition of "The Guinness Book of World Records", the largest selling author on earth.
Gielgud, John
b. April 14, 1904 d. May 21, 2000
Actor. Born Arthur John Gielgud in South Kensington, London to Frank Gielgud, a stockbroker, and his wife, Kate Terry-Lewis. He attended Hillside preparatory school, where he first appeared onstage in a production of Shakespeare's ‘Merchant of Venice'. At 17 he made his professional debut at the Old Vic in 1921 in a minor role in ‘Henry V.' He studied his craft at Lady Benson's Dramatic Academy and attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts.
Monroe, Vaughn
b. October 7, 1911 d. May 21, 1973
Singer, Orchestra Leader, Actor. One of the most successful radio and recording artists of the 1940s and 1950's, he had dozens of top selling records, including "There, I've Said it Again", "Let it Snow", "Dance Ballerina" and "Ghost Riders in the Sky". As a result of his popularity Camel Cigarettes signed him for the Saturday night radio show "The CBS Caravan". He received parts in several motion pictures, including "Singing Guns" and "The Toughest Man in Arizona".
Cartland, Barbara
b. July 9, 1901 d. May 21, 2000
Author. Aviation pioneer. British political and society figure. Dame Barbara Cartland was born into a middle class family, and showed writing talent from an early age; her first job as a gossip columnist for The Daily Express was followed by her first novel, "Jigsaw", in 1923. By the time her career ended, she had published 657 books, making her, according to the 1983 edition of "The Guinness Book of World Records", the largest selling author on earth.
Gielgud, John
b. April 14, 1904 d. May 21, 2000
Actor. Born Arthur John Gielgud in South Kensington, London to Frank Gielgud, a stockbroker, and his wife, Kate Terry-Lewis. He attended Hillside preparatory school, where he first appeared onstage in a production of Shakespeare's ‘Merchant of Venice'. At 17 he made his professional debut at the Old Vic in 1921 in a minor role in ‘Henry V.' He studied his craft at Lady Benson's Dramatic Academy and attended the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts.
Monroe, Vaughn
b. October 7, 1911 d. May 21, 1973
Singer, Orchestra Leader, Actor. One of the most successful radio and recording artists of the 1940s and 1950's, he had dozens of top selling records, including "There, I've Said it Again", "Let it Snow", "Dance Ballerina" and "Ghost Riders in the Sky". As a result of his popularity Camel Cigarettes signed him for the Saturday night radio show "The CBS Caravan". He received parts in several motion pictures, including "Singing Guns" and "The Toughest Man in Arizona".
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Died On This Date
May 20
Columbus, Christopher
b. September 1, 1451 d. May 20, 1506
Explorer. He is credited with discovering America for Europeans in 1492, although at the time, he believed he had discovered a new route to China. He was given the titles Admiral of the Ocean Sea and Viceroy of the Indies. Born Christopher Columbus (Cristobal Colon as he called himself in Spain), the eldest of five children in Genoa, Italy, to Domenico Colombo, a wool weaver and local guildsman, and Susanna Fontanarossa, the daughter of a wool weaver. Although trained to follow in his father'.
Lafayette, Marquis de
b. September 6, 1757 d. May 20, 1834
Revolutionary War Continental Army Major General. After the outbreak of the Revolutionary War in North America, he offered his services to the colonists, and refused to take any pay for his services while spending much of his own money to outfit the American Colonial Army with shoes and clothing. Born Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier in France to a military father who was killed when he was two, at age twelve, his mother passed away and a few weeks later his wealthy grandfather.
Radner, Gilda
b. June 28, 1946 d. May 20, 1989
Actress, Comedienne. Gained wide fame in the mid-1970s as an original cast member on the hit TV comedy series "Saturday Night Live." Fondly remembered for creating many unique characters. She was married to actor Gene Wilder. Cause of death: Ovarian cancer.
Columbus, Christopher
b. September 1, 1451 d. May 20, 1506
Explorer. He is credited with discovering America for Europeans in 1492, although at the time, he believed he had discovered a new route to China. He was given the titles Admiral of the Ocean Sea and Viceroy of the Indies. Born Christopher Columbus (Cristobal Colon as he called himself in Spain), the eldest of five children in Genoa, Italy, to Domenico Colombo, a wool weaver and local guildsman, and Susanna Fontanarossa, the daughter of a wool weaver. Although trained to follow in his father'.
Lafayette, Marquis de
b. September 6, 1757 d. May 20, 1834
Revolutionary War Continental Army Major General. After the outbreak of the Revolutionary War in North America, he offered his services to the colonists, and refused to take any pay for his services while spending much of his own money to outfit the American Colonial Army with shoes and clothing. Born Marie-Joseph-Paul-Yves-Roch-Gilbert du Motier in France to a military father who was killed when he was two, at age twelve, his mother passed away and a few weeks later his wealthy grandfather.
Radner, Gilda
b. June 28, 1946 d. May 20, 1989
Actress, Comedienne. Gained wide fame in the mid-1970s as an original cast member on the hit TV comedy series "Saturday Night Live." Fondly remembered for creating many unique characters. She was married to actor Gene Wilder. Cause of death: Ovarian cancer.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Died On This Date
May 19
Kennedy Onassis (Bouvier), Jacqueline Lee 'Jackie'
b. July 28, 1929 d. May 19, 1994
Presidential First Lady. Wife of 35th United States President John F. Kennedy. She served as First Lady from January 20, 1961 to November 22, 1963. She was a daughter of John Vernon Bouvier, III and his wife, Janet Lee. Cause of death: Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
Boleyn, Anne
b. 1502 d. May 19, 1536
Queen Consort. She was the second wife of King Henry VIII of England. When the Vatican refused to nullify his first marriage to Catharine of Aragon , Henry changed Christianity forever by denouncing the Vatican and creating the National Church in England with him the supreme leader. Annie Boleyn became his wife, but soon became disillusioned with her for failing to produce a male heir to the throne of England.
Hawthorne, Nathaniel
b. July 4, 1804 d. May 19, 1864
Renowned Author. He was a descendent of prominent early New England settlers. His most famous work was "The Scarlet Letter," published in 1850. His other novels were, "Fanshawe," "The House of the Seven Gables," "The Blithedale Romance," and "The Marble Faun." His short stories were, "Twice-Told Tales," "Mosses From An Old Manse," and "Tanglewood Tales".
Kennedy Onassis (Bouvier), Jacqueline Lee 'Jackie'
b. July 28, 1929 d. May 19, 1994
Presidential First Lady. Wife of 35th United States President John F. Kennedy. She served as First Lady from January 20, 1961 to November 22, 1963. She was a daughter of John Vernon Bouvier, III and his wife, Janet Lee. Cause of death: Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
Boleyn, Anne
b. 1502 d. May 19, 1536
Queen Consort. She was the second wife of King Henry VIII of England. When the Vatican refused to nullify his first marriage to Catharine of Aragon , Henry changed Christianity forever by denouncing the Vatican and creating the National Church in England with him the supreme leader. Annie Boleyn became his wife, but soon became disillusioned with her for failing to produce a male heir to the throne of England.
Hawthorne, Nathaniel
b. July 4, 1804 d. May 19, 1864
Renowned Author. He was a descendent of prominent early New England settlers. His most famous work was "The Scarlet Letter," published in 1850. His other novels were, "Fanshawe," "The House of the Seven Gables," "The Blithedale Romance," and "The Marble Faun." His short stories were, "Twice-Told Tales," "Mosses From An Old Manse," and "Tanglewood Tales".
Monday, May 18, 2009
Died On This Date
May 18
Montgomery, Elizabeth Victoria
b. April 15, 1933 d. May 18, 1995Actress. best remembered for her leading role as Samantha, the beautiful witch who cast spells by twitching her nose on the top-rated ABC Sitcom "Bewitched" (1964-1972). Montgomery was born in Hollywood, California in Aprill of 1933, the daughter of actress Elizabeth Allen Montgomery and actor-director Robert Montgomery. Cause of death: Colon cancer.
Montgomery, Elizabeth Victoria
b. April 15, 1933 d. May 18, 1995Actress. best remembered for her leading role as Samantha, the beautiful witch who cast spells by twitching her nose on the top-rated ABC Sitcom "Bewitched" (1964-1972). Montgomery was born in Hollywood, California in Aprill of 1933, the daughter of actress Elizabeth Allen Montgomery and actor-director Robert Montgomery. Cause of death: Colon cancer.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Died On This Date
May 17
Welk, Lawrence
b. March 11, 1903 d. May 17, 1992
Jazz Bandleader, Musician. He is best remembered for his television show, "The Lawrence Welk Show" which ran for 27 years, from 1955 to 1982. Born on a farm in Strasburg, North Dakota, the sixth of nine children, his parents were Alsatian Germans, and he dropped out of school in fourth grade. Since virtually everyone in his community was German, he grew up speaking German, not learning English until he was 21. As a result, his unique accent never left him. Cause of death: Pneumonia.
Randall (Rosenberg), Tony (Leonard)
b. February 26, 1920 d. May 17, 2004
Actor, Entertainer. Fondly remembered for his role of 'Felix Unger' on the hit 1970s television series, "The Odd Couple," for which he won an Emmy Award. A highly respected and accomplished stage actor, he was popular in numerous Broadway plays. He appeared in many motion pictures, including "Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter?" (1957), "Pillow Talk" (1959), "7 Faces of Dr. Lao" (1964), and "Our Man in Marrakesh" (1966).
Welk, Lawrence
b. March 11, 1903 d. May 17, 1992
Jazz Bandleader, Musician. He is best remembered for his television show, "The Lawrence Welk Show" which ran for 27 years, from 1955 to 1982. Born on a farm in Strasburg, North Dakota, the sixth of nine children, his parents were Alsatian Germans, and he dropped out of school in fourth grade. Since virtually everyone in his community was German, he grew up speaking German, not learning English until he was 21. As a result, his unique accent never left him. Cause of death: Pneumonia.
Randall (Rosenberg), Tony (Leonard)
b. February 26, 1920 d. May 17, 2004
Actor, Entertainer. Fondly remembered for his role of 'Felix Unger' on the hit 1970s television series, "The Odd Couple," for which he won an Emmy Award. A highly respected and accomplished stage actor, he was popular in numerous Broadway plays. He appeared in many motion pictures, including "Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter?" (1957), "Pillow Talk" (1959), "7 Faces of Dr. Lao" (1964), and "Our Man in Marrakesh" (1966).
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Died On This Date
May 16
Henson, Jim
b. September 24, 1936 d. May 16, 1990
Entertainer. He is best known as the creator of the "Muppets". He began his career on a Washington, DC television station on a five-minute program called "Sam and Friends." The appearance of Muppets on the show "Sesame Street" (1969) catapulted Henson to nationwide popularity. His subsequent television shows ("The Muppet Show" in 1976, and "Fraggle Rock" in 1983) and films--The Muppet Movie (1979), The Great Muppet Caper (1981), The Muppets Take Manhattan (1984)-gained international recognition. Cause of death: Pneumonia.
Davis Jr., Sammy
b. December 8, 1925 d. May 16, 1990
American Entertainment Icon. Acclaimed and beloved singer, actor, and dancer. A multi-talented performer, Sammy Davis, Jr. recorded forty albums and made countless film, television and appearances in Las Vegas in his life time. He was born in Dec. of 1925 in Harlem New York to New York vaudeville star Sammy Davis, Sr., and the Puerto Rican dancer.
Ness, Eliot
b. April 19, 1903 d. May 16, 1957
Law Officer. He was the Federal agent who brought gangster Al Capone to justice. Born in Chicago, Illinois, he was educated at the University of Chicago, graduating in 1925 with a degree in business and law. He initially worked as an investigator for the Retail Credit Company of Atlanta, Georgia, working in their field office in Chicago, where he conducted credit investigations on persons applying to banks for credit loans.
Henson, Jim
b. September 24, 1936 d. May 16, 1990
Entertainer. He is best known as the creator of the "Muppets". He began his career on a Washington, DC television station on a five-minute program called "Sam and Friends." The appearance of Muppets on the show "Sesame Street" (1969) catapulted Henson to nationwide popularity. His subsequent television shows ("The Muppet Show" in 1976, and "Fraggle Rock" in 1983) and films--The Muppet Movie (1979), The Great Muppet Caper (1981), The Muppets Take Manhattan (1984)-gained international recognition. Cause of death: Pneumonia.
Davis Jr., Sammy
b. December 8, 1925 d. May 16, 1990
American Entertainment Icon. Acclaimed and beloved singer, actor, and dancer. A multi-talented performer, Sammy Davis, Jr. recorded forty albums and made countless film, television and appearances in Las Vegas in his life time. He was born in Dec. of 1925 in Harlem New York to New York vaudeville star Sammy Davis, Sr., and the Puerto Rican dancer.
Ness, Eliot
b. April 19, 1903 d. May 16, 1957
Law Officer. He was the Federal agent who brought gangster Al Capone to justice. Born in Chicago, Illinois, he was educated at the University of Chicago, graduating in 1925 with a degree in business and law. He initially worked as an investigator for the Retail Credit Company of Atlanta, Georgia, working in their field office in Chicago, where he conducted credit investigations on persons applying to banks for credit loans.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Died On This Date
May 15
Dickinson, Emily
b. December 10, 1830 d. May 15, 1886
Renowned Poet. Born in Amherst, Massachusetts, the second daughter (the third and last child) of Edward Dickinson and Emily Norcross. Her father served in the General Court of Massachusetts and later in the United States House of Representatives. Raised in a strict puritanical Massachusetts in a Christian tradition, she would later challenge her parents' beliefs. She attended Amherst Academy, and later, South Hadley Female Seminary.
Cash, June Carter
b. June 23, 1929 d. May 15, 2003
Country Singer, producer, author, actress. Born in Maces Springs, Virginia, on June 23, 1929, as Valerie June Carter, she was a member of the famous singing Carter Family. The Carter Family began recording country music in 1927 and continued until Maybelle's death in 1978. The Carter Family Singers included members like 'Mother' Maybelle Carter, Anita Carter, and Alvin Pleasant 'A.P.' Carter, and of course June who would go onto a successful singing career herself.
Dickinson, Emily
b. December 10, 1830 d. May 15, 1886
Renowned Poet. Born in Amherst, Massachusetts, the second daughter (the third and last child) of Edward Dickinson and Emily Norcross. Her father served in the General Court of Massachusetts and later in the United States House of Representatives. Raised in a strict puritanical Massachusetts in a Christian tradition, she would later challenge her parents' beliefs. She attended Amherst Academy, and later, South Hadley Female Seminary.
Cash, June Carter
b. June 23, 1929 d. May 15, 2003
Country Singer, producer, author, actress. Born in Maces Springs, Virginia, on June 23, 1929, as Valerie June Carter, she was a member of the famous singing Carter Family. The Carter Family began recording country music in 1927 and continued until Maybelle's death in 1978. The Carter Family Singers included members like 'Mother' Maybelle Carter, Anita Carter, and Alvin Pleasant 'A.P.' Carter, and of course June who would go onto a successful singing career herself.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Died On This Date
May 14
Sinatra, Frank (Francis Albert)
b. December 12, 1915 d. May 14, 1998
Singer, Actor, Entertainer. He began his career in the 1930s and achieved widespread national popularity in the early 1940s. Nicknamed "Old Blue Eyes," he attained the pinnacle of his success in the music industry in the 1950s and 1960s with albums such as "Wee Small Hours" (1955), "Come Fly with Me" (1958), and "Nice 'N' Easy" (1960). He started Reprise Records in 1962, and won an Academy Award for his role as 'Angelo Maggio' in the motion picture "From Here to Eternity" (1953).
Hayworth, Rita
b. October 17, 1918 d. May 14, 1987
Actress. Born to Spanish dancer Eduardo Cansino and Volga Hayworth, a Ziegfield Follies showgirl, Rita Hayworth began her career as a dancer in the family act during her adolescence. In the late 1930s, she signed with Columbia studios who urged her to dye her hair auburn and change her name to Rita Hayworth. Cause of death: Alzheimers Disease.
Stack, Robert
b. January 13, 1919 d. May 14, 2003
Actor. Born in Los Angeles, California to James Langford Stack and Elizabeth Modini Wood Stack. His parents divorced when he was one year old, and his mother took him to Europe when he was 3, he couldn't speak English until he was 6. Robert spoke fluent Italian and French, but had to learn English when they returned to Los Angeles. His parents remarried in 1928. He was a National skeet champion at age 16 and a member of the all-American team. Cause of death: Heart attack.
Sinatra, Frank (Francis Albert)
b. December 12, 1915 d. May 14, 1998
Singer, Actor, Entertainer. He began his career in the 1930s and achieved widespread national popularity in the early 1940s. Nicknamed "Old Blue Eyes," he attained the pinnacle of his success in the music industry in the 1950s and 1960s with albums such as "Wee Small Hours" (1955), "Come Fly with Me" (1958), and "Nice 'N' Easy" (1960). He started Reprise Records in 1962, and won an Academy Award for his role as 'Angelo Maggio' in the motion picture "From Here to Eternity" (1953).
Hayworth, Rita
b. October 17, 1918 d. May 14, 1987
Actress. Born to Spanish dancer Eduardo Cansino and Volga Hayworth, a Ziegfield Follies showgirl, Rita Hayworth began her career as a dancer in the family act during her adolescence. In the late 1930s, she signed with Columbia studios who urged her to dye her hair auburn and change her name to Rita Hayworth. Cause of death: Alzheimers Disease.
Stack, Robert
b. January 13, 1919 d. May 14, 2003
Actor. Born in Los Angeles, California to James Langford Stack and Elizabeth Modini Wood Stack. His parents divorced when he was one year old, and his mother took him to Europe when he was 3, he couldn't speak English until he was 6. Robert spoke fluent Italian and French, but had to learn English when they returned to Los Angeles. His parents remarried in 1928. He was a National skeet champion at age 16 and a member of the all-American team. Cause of death: Heart attack.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Died On This Date
May 13
Cooper, Gary (Frank James)
b. May 7, 1901 d. May 13, 1961
Actor. His career lasted over thirty six years in which he received five Academy Award nominations for Best Actor, winning twice and also received an Honorary Award from the Academy for his many memorable screen performances and the international recognition he, as an individual, had gained for the motion picture industry. He was born Frank James Cooper in Helena, Montana to English parents and spent part of his childhood around Helena - his father served as a Montana Supreme Curt Justice.
O'Hanlon, Virginia
b. July 20, 1889 d. May 13, 1971
American Folk Figure. She penned the most famous Christmas letter of the last two centuries. As an eight-year-old girl, Virginia O'Hanlon asked her father Philip whether there was a Santa Claus. His best advice was to write to the "New York Sun" and, if she saw it in print there, she could believe it. The letter, written September 21, 1897 to the general editor of the "Sun" Francis Pharcellus Church.
Blocker, Dan
b. December 10, 1928 d. May 13, 1972
Actor. He is best remembered for his role of ‘Hoss Cartwright' in the TV series, "Bonanza," which ran from 1959 to 1972. Born in Bowie County, Texas, he entered the movie and television field in 1955 with his first role in the film, "Hook a Crook" (1955). He began taking small cameo roles on television, in such programs (mostly westerns) as "Gunsmoke," "Playhouse 90," "Cheyenne," "Tales of Wells Fargo," "The Restless Gun," "Maverick," "The Rifleman," and "Zane Grey Theater."
Peterson, Oscar Verner
b. August 27, 1899 d. May 13, 1942World War II Congressional Medal of Honor recipient. Born in Prentis, Wisconsin and enlisted in the Navy December 8, 1920. He served continuously at sea and on April 8, 1941, reported for duty on the U.S.S. NEOSHO (AO-23) as Chief Water Tender. His citation reads, "At the Battle of the Coral Sea on May 7, 1942, his ship was under heavy attacks from Japanese dive bombers. Furious fires broke out and the struggle to save the ship began. He was in charge of a repair party below.
Wills, James Robert 'Bob'
b. March 6, 1905 d. May 13, 1975'King of Western Swing'. Founder of Bob Will's western swing band. The inscription on his headstone reads "Deep Within My Heart Lies a Melody."
Clem, John Lincoln
b. August 31, 1851 d. May 13, 1937
Civil War Figure, United States Army General. On May 24, 1861, at just 9-years of age, he left his home in Newark, Ohio, to join the fighting that had recently erupted in what would become the Civil War. His mother had been killed in a train accident, and he was now free to do his part to protect the Union. The first thing he did was to change his name. He was born John Joseph Klem, but changed his middle name to Lincoln because of his admiration for President Abraham Lincoln.
Winder, David F.
b. August 10, 1946 d. May 13, 1970
Vietnam Congressional Medal of Honor recipient. Served as a Private First Class, U.S. Army, Headquarters Company, 3d Battalion, 1st Infantry, 11th Infantry Brigade. In Vietnam on May 13, 1970 Pfc. Winder a senior medical aid man with Company A, was in a sweep of a freshly cut rice paddy when his unit came under assault from an entrenched force. Hearing cries from the wounded, the unarmed Winder started to crawl toward the nearest casualty across a long swath of bullet-swept terrain.
Ahern, George Patrick
b. December 29, 1859 d. May 13, 1940
United States Army Officer, Conservationist. He served in Cuba and the Philippines during the Spanish-American War. After the war, he remained in the Philippines to organize the Office of Patents, Copyrights and Trademarks and later the Bureau of Forestry for the Philippine Government. Earlier in 1890, he explored some of the last areas unmapped in Montana, mapping what would become Glacier National Park.
Phillips, William
b. 1731 d. May 13, 1781
Major General William Phillips. Artillery hero in the Seven Years War; Deputy commander to General John Burgoyne at Battle of Saratoga; Prisoner of War at Albemarle Barracks, Virginia; Commander of the British Campaign in Virginia March-May 1781 and Army at the Battle of Petersburg on 25 April 1781. Cause of death: "Malignant Fever".
Sarazen, Gene
b. February 27, 1902 d. May 13, 1999
Professional Golfer. Gene Sarazen was the first professional golfer to win all four major championships. He was also known for his legendary "shot heard 'round the world" with his rare double-eagle in the 1935 Masters. Born Eugenio Saraceni, he was known as "The Squire" for his golf knickers and cap. Sarazen is also known as the inventor of the sand wedge.
Jenks, Frank
b. November 4, 1902 d. May 13, 1962
Character Actor and Musician. He made more than 130 movies, including the classic comedy "His Girl Friday" (1940) as a newspaper reporter and as a singing cabdriver in "100 Men and a Girl" with Deanna Durbin. He appeared playing his trombone in "The Big Broadcast of 1937." He also worked in "Letter of Introduction" (1938), "Golden Boy" (1939), "Follow the Boys" (1944), "Two Girls and a Sailor" (1944) and "Christmas in Connecticut" (1945).
Case, Theodore W.
b. December 12, 1888 d. May 13, 1944
Inventor. An important figure in the development of sound motion pictures. Case was born in Auburn, New York, into a socially prominent family. He began to experiment with photographing sound waves while a student at Yale, and in 1916 he set up the Case Research Laboratory in a greenhouse at his Auburn estate. During World War I he worked on classified projects involving infrared signals for the US Navy.
Burks, Robert
b. July 4, 1909 d. May 13, 1968
Cinematographer. He was the favorite cameraman of director Alfred Hitchcock. From 1951 to 1964 Burks shot 12 films for the "Master of Suspense", a remarkable collaboration that resulted in some of the most memorable images in Hollywood history. He won an Academy Award for the dazzling color photography of "To Catch a Thief" (1955) and received Oscar nominations for "Strangers on a Train" (1951), "Rear Window" (1954), and the Guy Green-directed "A Patch of Blue" (1965).
Williams, John J.
b. 1843 d. May 13, 1865
Civil War Union Army Soldier. A Private in the Union Army, he was killed at the Battle of Palmetto Ranch, Texas, on May 13 1865. He was the last man killed in the US Civil War.
Smalley, Henry Adam
b. February 28, 1834 d. May 13, 1888
Civil War Union Brevet Brigadier General. Graduated from the USMA in 1854. Served in the Civil War first as Colonel and commander of the 5th Vermont Volunteer Infantry, having been granted a leave of absence from the Regular Army. He commanded the unit until September 1862, when his leave was revoked, and he returned to the Regular service as a Captain in the 2nd United States Regular Artillery.
Semple, Robert
b. August 18, 1887 d. May 13, 1943
Mexican Vera Cruz Campaign Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. He was a 28 year old Navy chief gunner when he earned his Medal. His citation reads "For meritorious service under fire on the occasion of the landing of American navel forces at Vera Cruz (Mexico) on 21 April 1914. C.G. Semple was then attached to the U.S.S. Florida as a chief turret captain." Retired as a Navy Lieutenant Commander, his other Navy awards include the Navy Cross.
Cooper, Gary (Frank James)
b. May 7, 1901 d. May 13, 1961
Actor. His career lasted over thirty six years in which he received five Academy Award nominations for Best Actor, winning twice and also received an Honorary Award from the Academy for his many memorable screen performances and the international recognition he, as an individual, had gained for the motion picture industry. He was born Frank James Cooper in Helena, Montana to English parents and spent part of his childhood around Helena - his father served as a Montana Supreme Curt Justice.
O'Hanlon, Virginia
b. July 20, 1889 d. May 13, 1971
American Folk Figure. She penned the most famous Christmas letter of the last two centuries. As an eight-year-old girl, Virginia O'Hanlon asked her father Philip whether there was a Santa Claus. His best advice was to write to the "New York Sun" and, if she saw it in print there, she could believe it. The letter, written September 21, 1897 to the general editor of the "Sun" Francis Pharcellus Church.
Blocker, Dan
b. December 10, 1928 d. May 13, 1972
Actor. He is best remembered for his role of ‘Hoss Cartwright' in the TV series, "Bonanza," which ran from 1959 to 1972. Born in Bowie County, Texas, he entered the movie and television field in 1955 with his first role in the film, "Hook a Crook" (1955). He began taking small cameo roles on television, in such programs (mostly westerns) as "Gunsmoke," "Playhouse 90," "Cheyenne," "Tales of Wells Fargo," "The Restless Gun," "Maverick," "The Rifleman," and "Zane Grey Theater."
Peterson, Oscar Verner
b. August 27, 1899 d. May 13, 1942World War II Congressional Medal of Honor recipient. Born in Prentis, Wisconsin and enlisted in the Navy December 8, 1920. He served continuously at sea and on April 8, 1941, reported for duty on the U.S.S. NEOSHO (AO-23) as Chief Water Tender. His citation reads, "At the Battle of the Coral Sea on May 7, 1942, his ship was under heavy attacks from Japanese dive bombers. Furious fires broke out and the struggle to save the ship began. He was in charge of a repair party below.
Wills, James Robert 'Bob'
b. March 6, 1905 d. May 13, 1975'King of Western Swing'. Founder of Bob Will's western swing band. The inscription on his headstone reads "Deep Within My Heart Lies a Melody."
Clem, John Lincoln
b. August 31, 1851 d. May 13, 1937
Civil War Figure, United States Army General. On May 24, 1861, at just 9-years of age, he left his home in Newark, Ohio, to join the fighting that had recently erupted in what would become the Civil War. His mother had been killed in a train accident, and he was now free to do his part to protect the Union. The first thing he did was to change his name. He was born John Joseph Klem, but changed his middle name to Lincoln because of his admiration for President Abraham Lincoln.
Winder, David F.
b. August 10, 1946 d. May 13, 1970
Vietnam Congressional Medal of Honor recipient. Served as a Private First Class, U.S. Army, Headquarters Company, 3d Battalion, 1st Infantry, 11th Infantry Brigade. In Vietnam on May 13, 1970 Pfc. Winder a senior medical aid man with Company A, was in a sweep of a freshly cut rice paddy when his unit came under assault from an entrenched force. Hearing cries from the wounded, the unarmed Winder started to crawl toward the nearest casualty across a long swath of bullet-swept terrain.
Ahern, George Patrick
b. December 29, 1859 d. May 13, 1940
United States Army Officer, Conservationist. He served in Cuba and the Philippines during the Spanish-American War. After the war, he remained in the Philippines to organize the Office of Patents, Copyrights and Trademarks and later the Bureau of Forestry for the Philippine Government. Earlier in 1890, he explored some of the last areas unmapped in Montana, mapping what would become Glacier National Park.
Phillips, William
b. 1731 d. May 13, 1781
Major General William Phillips. Artillery hero in the Seven Years War; Deputy commander to General John Burgoyne at Battle of Saratoga; Prisoner of War at Albemarle Barracks, Virginia; Commander of the British Campaign in Virginia March-May 1781 and Army at the Battle of Petersburg on 25 April 1781. Cause of death: "Malignant Fever".
Sarazen, Gene
b. February 27, 1902 d. May 13, 1999
Professional Golfer. Gene Sarazen was the first professional golfer to win all four major championships. He was also known for his legendary "shot heard 'round the world" with his rare double-eagle in the 1935 Masters. Born Eugenio Saraceni, he was known as "The Squire" for his golf knickers and cap. Sarazen is also known as the inventor of the sand wedge.
Jenks, Frank
b. November 4, 1902 d. May 13, 1962
Character Actor and Musician. He made more than 130 movies, including the classic comedy "His Girl Friday" (1940) as a newspaper reporter and as a singing cabdriver in "100 Men and a Girl" with Deanna Durbin. He appeared playing his trombone in "The Big Broadcast of 1937." He also worked in "Letter of Introduction" (1938), "Golden Boy" (1939), "Follow the Boys" (1944), "Two Girls and a Sailor" (1944) and "Christmas in Connecticut" (1945).
Case, Theodore W.
b. December 12, 1888 d. May 13, 1944
Inventor. An important figure in the development of sound motion pictures. Case was born in Auburn, New York, into a socially prominent family. He began to experiment with photographing sound waves while a student at Yale, and in 1916 he set up the Case Research Laboratory in a greenhouse at his Auburn estate. During World War I he worked on classified projects involving infrared signals for the US Navy.
Burks, Robert
b. July 4, 1909 d. May 13, 1968
Cinematographer. He was the favorite cameraman of director Alfred Hitchcock. From 1951 to 1964 Burks shot 12 films for the "Master of Suspense", a remarkable collaboration that resulted in some of the most memorable images in Hollywood history. He won an Academy Award for the dazzling color photography of "To Catch a Thief" (1955) and received Oscar nominations for "Strangers on a Train" (1951), "Rear Window" (1954), and the Guy Green-directed "A Patch of Blue" (1965).
Williams, John J.
b. 1843 d. May 13, 1865
Civil War Union Army Soldier. A Private in the Union Army, he was killed at the Battle of Palmetto Ranch, Texas, on May 13 1865. He was the last man killed in the US Civil War.
Smalley, Henry Adam
b. February 28, 1834 d. May 13, 1888
Civil War Union Brevet Brigadier General. Graduated from the USMA in 1854. Served in the Civil War first as Colonel and commander of the 5th Vermont Volunteer Infantry, having been granted a leave of absence from the Regular Army. He commanded the unit until September 1862, when his leave was revoked, and he returned to the Regular service as a Captain in the 2nd United States Regular Artillery.
Semple, Robert
b. August 18, 1887 d. May 13, 1943
Mexican Vera Cruz Campaign Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. He was a 28 year old Navy chief gunner when he earned his Medal. His citation reads "For meritorious service under fire on the occasion of the landing of American navel forces at Vera Cruz (Mexico) on 21 April 1914. C.G. Semple was then attached to the U.S.S. Florida as a chief turret captain." Retired as a Navy Lieutenant Commander, his other Navy awards include the Navy Cross.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Died On This Date
May 12
Como, Perry
b. May 18, 1912 d. May 12, 2001
Singer, Actor. Helped pioneer variety shows on the new medium of television in the 1950s. He worked as a barber before he left that profession in the 1930s to sing with big bands. He had 14 singles that made it to No. 1 and sold more than 100 million albums. He had more than 20 gold records in his career and was probably best known for the tune "And I Love You So." In 1958 he won a Grammy Award as best male singer for the hit "Catch a Falling Star." Cause of death: Died in his sleep from complications of alzheimers.
Stuart, James Ewell Brown 'J.E.B.'
b. February 6, 1833 d. May 12, 1864
Civil War Confederate Major General. After graduating from West Point in 1854, he became a first lieutenant in the United States Army 1st Cavalry, and an Indian fighter in the west. In 1859, he was sent with orders for Robert E Lee to go to Harpers Ferry to stop the raid of John Brown. After Brown's raiders were surrounded in the town, Stuart volunteered to issue the ultimatum to Brown before the final assault.
Reed, Robert
b. October 19, 1932 d. May 12, 1992
Motion picture and television actor. Fondly remembered in the role of 'Mike Brady,' the father on the popular TV series "The Brady Bunch." Cause of death: Cancer related to AIDS
Paine, Robert Treat
b. March 11, 1731 d. May 12, 1814
Signer of the Declaration of Independence from Massachusetts. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Paine graduated from Harvard University in 1749 at the age of 18, and taught school in Lunenburg, Massachusetts. Discovering he lacked the patience to teach, after one year, he began to sail about the Atlantic, going to Spain, the Azores, and Greenland. Returning home in 1754, he began to study law, and became a lawyer in 1757 in Taunton, Massachusetts.
Scott, John Wallace
b. August 31, 1832 d. May 12, 1903
Civil War Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. He was a Brevet Major in the Union Army. He was awarded the Medal of Honor as a Captain in Company D, 157th Pennsylvania Infantry for action on April 1, 1865 at Five Forks, Virginia. His citation reads "Capture of the flag of the 16th South Carolina Infantry, in hand-to-hand combat."
Westerhold, William
b. January 21, 1836 d. May 12, 1910
Civil War Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. He was born in Binde, Prussia and he died in New York, New York. He entered the Union Army in New York, New York and served as a Sergeant in Company G, 52d New York Infantry. He attained the rank of First Lieutenant. He was awarded the CMOH for action on May 12, 1864 at Spotsylvania, Virginia. His citation reads "Capture of flag of 23d Virginia Infantry (C.S.A.) and its bearer."
Lubin, Arthur
b. July 25, 1898 d. May 12, 1995
Motion Picture Director. He began his career as actor in silent movies. From 1930, he worked for Universal Pictures. He is best remembered for films such as "Big Town Czar" (1939), "Black Friday" (1940), "Hold That Ghost" (1941), "Phantom of the Opera" (1943), "Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves" (1944), "The Spider Woman Strikes Back" (1946), "Francis Goes to the Races" (1951) and "Lady Godiva" (1955).
Bettenhausen Sr., Melvin Eugene 'Tony'
b. September 12, 1916 d. May 12, 1961
Auto Race Car Driver. He was the 1951 and 1958 National Racing Champion. He was killed test driving a racecar at the Indianapolis Speedway.
Murphy, Jeremiah J.
b. February 2, 1858 d. May 12, 1932
Indian Wars Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. He served during the Wars with the Plains Indians as a Private in Company M, 3rd United States Cavalry. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for action at Powder River, Montana on March 17, 1876. His citation reads "Being the only member of his picket not disabled, he attempted to save a wounded comrade".
Berkman, Ted
b. January 9, 1914 d. May 12, 2006
Screenwriter, Author. Berkman wrote the story for the film "Bedtime for Bonzo", (1951) starring Ronald Reagan. Born Edward Oscar Berkman in Brookyln, NY. he was author of the book "Cast a Giant Shadow", which was made into a film starring Kirk Douglas. Berkman's other screenplays included "Fear Strikes Out", (1957) about real-life ballplayer Jimmy Piersall, starring Anthony Perkins and "Edge of Fury", (1958).
McKinney, William H.
d. May 12, 1864
Civil War Union Soldier. He was mustered into the Union Army on March 16, 1864, as a private, in Company F, 17th Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry. He was buried in Arlington on May 13, 1864, and was the first United States soldier to have family present at their funeral services. He also was the second soldier to be buried in Arlington. His stone lists his name as "W.H. McKinney".
Como, Perry
b. May 18, 1912 d. May 12, 2001
Singer, Actor. Helped pioneer variety shows on the new medium of television in the 1950s. He worked as a barber before he left that profession in the 1930s to sing with big bands. He had 14 singles that made it to No. 1 and sold more than 100 million albums. He had more than 20 gold records in his career and was probably best known for the tune "And I Love You So." In 1958 he won a Grammy Award as best male singer for the hit "Catch a Falling Star." Cause of death: Died in his sleep from complications of alzheimers.
Stuart, James Ewell Brown 'J.E.B.'
b. February 6, 1833 d. May 12, 1864
Civil War Confederate Major General. After graduating from West Point in 1854, he became a first lieutenant in the United States Army 1st Cavalry, and an Indian fighter in the west. In 1859, he was sent with orders for Robert E Lee to go to Harpers Ferry to stop the raid of John Brown. After Brown's raiders were surrounded in the town, Stuart volunteered to issue the ultimatum to Brown before the final assault.
Reed, Robert
b. October 19, 1932 d. May 12, 1992
Motion picture and television actor. Fondly remembered in the role of 'Mike Brady,' the father on the popular TV series "The Brady Bunch." Cause of death: Cancer related to AIDS
Paine, Robert Treat
b. March 11, 1731 d. May 12, 1814
Signer of the Declaration of Independence from Massachusetts. Born in Boston, Massachusetts, Paine graduated from Harvard University in 1749 at the age of 18, and taught school in Lunenburg, Massachusetts. Discovering he lacked the patience to teach, after one year, he began to sail about the Atlantic, going to Spain, the Azores, and Greenland. Returning home in 1754, he began to study law, and became a lawyer in 1757 in Taunton, Massachusetts.
Scott, John Wallace
b. August 31, 1832 d. May 12, 1903
Civil War Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. He was a Brevet Major in the Union Army. He was awarded the Medal of Honor as a Captain in Company D, 157th Pennsylvania Infantry for action on April 1, 1865 at Five Forks, Virginia. His citation reads "Capture of the flag of the 16th South Carolina Infantry, in hand-to-hand combat."
Westerhold, William
b. January 21, 1836 d. May 12, 1910
Civil War Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. He was born in Binde, Prussia and he died in New York, New York. He entered the Union Army in New York, New York and served as a Sergeant in Company G, 52d New York Infantry. He attained the rank of First Lieutenant. He was awarded the CMOH for action on May 12, 1864 at Spotsylvania, Virginia. His citation reads "Capture of flag of 23d Virginia Infantry (C.S.A.) and its bearer."
Lubin, Arthur
b. July 25, 1898 d. May 12, 1995
Motion Picture Director. He began his career as actor in silent movies. From 1930, he worked for Universal Pictures. He is best remembered for films such as "Big Town Czar" (1939), "Black Friday" (1940), "Hold That Ghost" (1941), "Phantom of the Opera" (1943), "Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves" (1944), "The Spider Woman Strikes Back" (1946), "Francis Goes to the Races" (1951) and "Lady Godiva" (1955).
Bettenhausen Sr., Melvin Eugene 'Tony'
b. September 12, 1916 d. May 12, 1961
Auto Race Car Driver. He was the 1951 and 1958 National Racing Champion. He was killed test driving a racecar at the Indianapolis Speedway.
Murphy, Jeremiah J.
b. February 2, 1858 d. May 12, 1932
Indian Wars Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. He served during the Wars with the Plains Indians as a Private in Company M, 3rd United States Cavalry. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for action at Powder River, Montana on March 17, 1876. His citation reads "Being the only member of his picket not disabled, he attempted to save a wounded comrade".
Berkman, Ted
b. January 9, 1914 d. May 12, 2006
Screenwriter, Author. Berkman wrote the story for the film "Bedtime for Bonzo", (1951) starring Ronald Reagan. Born Edward Oscar Berkman in Brookyln, NY. he was author of the book "Cast a Giant Shadow", which was made into a film starring Kirk Douglas. Berkman's other screenplays included "Fear Strikes Out", (1957) about real-life ballplayer Jimmy Piersall, starring Anthony Perkins and "Edge of Fury", (1958).
McKinney, William H.
d. May 12, 1864
Civil War Union Soldier. He was mustered into the Union Army on March 16, 1864, as a private, in Company F, 17th Pennsylvania Volunteer Cavalry. He was buried in Arlington on May 13, 1864, and was the first United States soldier to have family present at their funeral services. He also was the second soldier to be buried in Arlington. His stone lists his name as "W.H. McKinney".
Monday, May 11, 2009
Died On This Date
May 11
Marley, Bob (Nesta Robert)
b. February 6, 1945 d. May 11, 1981
Reggae Musician. He is best remembered for bringing mainstream cultural acceptance of reggae music outside of Jamaica. His music was especially popular in Africa due much to its smooth combination of Jamaican and African musical sources. Born in Saint Ann, Jamaica, as Robert Nesta Marley, his father was a British Army Officer, Norval St. Clair Marley, and his mother was a Jamaican grocer, Cedella Malcolm (Booker). He was raised in the belief of Rastafari, a religion strongest in Jamaica. Cause of death: Cancer.
Terry, Seymour W
b. December 11, 1918 d. May 11, 1945
World War II Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. Served during World War II in the United States Army as Captain and commander of Company B, 382nd Infantry, 96th Infantry Division. He was awarded the CMOH for his bravery at Zebra Hill on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands on May 11, 1945. His citation reads "1st Lt. Terry was leading an attack against heavily defended Zebra Hill when devastating fire from 5 pillboxes halted the advance.
Patterson, Floyd
b. January 4, 1935 d. May 11, 2006
Professional Boxer. Heavyweight champion from 1956-1959 & 1960-1962. He won the middleweight gold medal during the 1952 Summer Olympics. Trained and managed by Cus D'Amato from a teenaged amateur boxer to the youngest world heavyweight boxing champion and first in boxing history to successfully regain the heavyweight title. He became the youngest World Heavyweight Champion after knocking out Archie Moore in the fifth round on November 30 1956.
Adams, Henry A.
b. March 18, 1800 d. May 11, 1869
United States Naval Officer. Entering as a Midshipman on March 14, 1814, he would go on to serve 48 years in the United States Navy. He was promoted to Lieutenant on January 13, 1825, Commander on September 8, 1841, and Captain on September 14, 1855. He commanded the "USS Mississippi" in the East India Squadron, and it was at this post he had his greatest moment during his service, as he was second in command.
Stover, Russell
b. 1888 d. May 11, 1954
It was in Omaha that a fellow approached Stover with a chocolate-covered ice cream bar idea. Stover produced and sold it for a year. After the first mad surge for the novelty, sales dropped off and the Stovers bailed out with $25,000. This novelty was the Eskimo Pie. The Stover's moved to Denver where they began "Mrs. Stover's Bungalow Candies." In 1931 they moved their business to Kansas City. Many Kansas Citizens will remember the company headquarters at 1206 Main street in downtown Kansas.
Flatt, Lester
b. June 19, 1914 d. May 11, 1979
Bluegrass Musician. A native of the Cumberland Plateau in East Tennesse, he ranks as one of the all-time preeminent lead singers of Bluegrass music. Born in Sparta,Tennessee, he left school in 1931 at an early age to work in the local textile mills. While working in the mill, he got a part time job at radio station WDBJ to perform with "The Charlie Scott Harmonizers". Later he would team up with Clyde Moody and perform a few shows in and around Burlington,North Carolina.
Rambo (Luttrell), Dottie (Joyce Reba)
b. March 2, 1934 d. May 11, 2008
Gospel Singer, Songwriter. Born Joyce Reba Luttrell. She was a prolific composer in the Christian music industry and credited with up to 2500 songs that she wrote and co-wrote. Many of her songs have been recorded by various artists. She was awarded the Grammy in 1969 for her album, "It's The Soul of Me". She was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame and received many honors over her career, including Songwriter of the Century, the GMA Dove Award, ASCAP Lifetime Achievement Award.
Miller, Frederick Edward John
b. November 24, 1824 d. May 11, 1888
Brewery founder. Founder of the Miller Brewing Company. He came to Milwaukee in 1855, and opened the Plank Road Brewery. Cause of death: Cancer.
Rice, James Clay
b. December 27, 1828 d. May 11, 1864
Civil War Union Brigadier General. Graduating from Yale in 1853, he taught at Natchez, Mississippi before traveling to New York City, where he took a position in the law office of Theodore Sedgwick, and was admitted to the bar in 1856. Upon the start of the Civil War, he was commissioned 1st Lieutenant and Adjutant with the 39th New York Volunteer Infantry (the "Garibaldi Guard") and was engaged in action at the Battle of First Manassas (Bull Run). He was promoted to Captain in August 1861.
Pollard, Frederick Douglass
b. January 27, 1894 d. May 11, 1986
"Fritz" Pollard was the first African-American to play in the Rose Bowl with Brown University in 1915 and was named the first African-American head coach in NFL history with the 1921 Akron Pros. He began his NFL career as a halfback with Akron in 1919 as one of two African-Americans in the league. He led the Pros to the first NFL championship in 1920. He also played for the Milwaukee Badgers, Hammond Pros and Providence Steam Roller in the NFL between 1919-26.
Barker, Lex
b. May 8, 1919 d. May 11, 1973
Actor. Born Alexander Crichlow Barker Jr. Died of a heart attack at the age of 54. Ex-husband of actress Lana Turner and actress Arlene Dahl. Married to actress Irene Labhardt until her death in 1962. Appeared in "Doll Face" (1945), "Tarzan's Magic Fountain" (1949), "Tarzan and the She Devil" (1953), and "Jungle Heat" (1957).
Howells, William Dean
b. March 1, 1837 d. May 11, 1920
Writer.
Smith, Maynard 'Snuffy'
b. May 19, 1911 d. May 11, 1984
World War II Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. Served in the United States Army Air Corps during World War II as a Sergeant in the 423rd Bombardment Squadron, 306th Bomber Group. He was awarded the CMOH for his bravery over Europe on May 1, 1943. Eighth Air Force bombers and fighters began arriving in England during the spring of 1942. The first heavy bomber mission against targets in Occupied Europe was flown on August 17, 1942.
Rockefeller Jr., John D.
b. January 29, 1874 d. May 11, 1960
Philanthropist, Social Reformer. The only son of John D. Rockefeller, he was born in Cleveland, Ohio, into one of the wealthiest American families of his time. His father had founded and was President of Standard Oil Company. His parents' strict discipline and frugal lifestyle were impressed upon him from the first day. His father's attitude could be explained with the question: "Is it right, is it duty?" From this, he admitted, he took responsibility early, and was serious.
Puller, Lewis B.
b. August 18, 1945 d. May 11, 1994
Author, and First Lieutenant, USMC (retired). He won the 1992 Pulitzer Prize for his autobiography, "Fortunate Son." His military awards include the Silver Star, the Purple Heart (2 awards), and the Navy Commendation Medal. Cause of death: suicide (by gunshot). One of the last victims of the Vietnam War. His father was the legendary Lieutenant General Lewis B. "Chesty" Puller, the most decorated Marine in US History.
Lincoln, Evelyn Norton
b. June 25, 1909 d. May 11, 1995
She was the personal secretary to President John F. Kennedy. She was known for visiting Kennedy's grave at Arlington Cemetery every year on the anniversary of his death. In 1988 on the 25th anniversary, she went alone to the grave and laid three red roses near the eternal flame. Mrs. Lincoln also was the author of two best selling books, "My 12 Years with John F. Kennedy" and "Kennedy and Johnson."
Gould, Chester
b. November 20, 1900 d. May 11, 1985
Cartoonist. He is best known for creating the "Dick Tracy" cartoon strip. Born in Pawnee, Oklahoma, he spent 10 years working on various comic strips at the Chicago “Tribune”-New York “News” Syndicate under editor Joseph Medill Patterson before creating "Dick Tracy" in 1931. (Patterson shortened the first name from his original "Plainclothes Tracy" to the then nickname for detective, and the result was comic strip immortality.)
Terry, Dewey
b. 1938 d. May 11, 2003
R&B/Rock Musician. He was one-half of the musical group duo, 'Don & Dewey.' Born and raised in Pasadena, California, Dewey Terry and Don Harris, were high school friends. They first joined the musical group, 'The Squires' and recorded for the Vita Record Label before leaving and forming 'Don & Terry' and recording for the Specialty Record Label. The band was formed in Pasadena, California, in 1957, and had Dewey on keyboards/vocals and Don playing guitar and sometimes violin.
Blassie, Michael Joseph
b. April 4, 1948 d. May 11, 1972
United States Army Vietnam Veteran. A 1970 graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, he served in the Viet Nam War as a 1st Lieutenant the 8th Special Operations Squadron. He was shot down and killed while piloting his A-37B Dragonfly aircraft in the vicinity of An Loc, in South Vietnam. His remains were buried in Arlington National Cemetery's Tomb of The Unknowns as an unidentified soldier from the Vietnam War.
Marley, Bob (Nesta Robert)
b. February 6, 1945 d. May 11, 1981
Reggae Musician. He is best remembered for bringing mainstream cultural acceptance of reggae music outside of Jamaica. His music was especially popular in Africa due much to its smooth combination of Jamaican and African musical sources. Born in Saint Ann, Jamaica, as Robert Nesta Marley, his father was a British Army Officer, Norval St. Clair Marley, and his mother was a Jamaican grocer, Cedella Malcolm (Booker). He was raised in the belief of Rastafari, a religion strongest in Jamaica. Cause of death: Cancer.
Terry, Seymour W
b. December 11, 1918 d. May 11, 1945
World War II Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. Served during World War II in the United States Army as Captain and commander of Company B, 382nd Infantry, 96th Infantry Division. He was awarded the CMOH for his bravery at Zebra Hill on Okinawa, Ryukyu Islands on May 11, 1945. His citation reads "1st Lt. Terry was leading an attack against heavily defended Zebra Hill when devastating fire from 5 pillboxes halted the advance.
Patterson, Floyd
b. January 4, 1935 d. May 11, 2006
Professional Boxer. Heavyweight champion from 1956-1959 & 1960-1962. He won the middleweight gold medal during the 1952 Summer Olympics. Trained and managed by Cus D'Amato from a teenaged amateur boxer to the youngest world heavyweight boxing champion and first in boxing history to successfully regain the heavyweight title. He became the youngest World Heavyweight Champion after knocking out Archie Moore in the fifth round on November 30 1956.
Adams, Henry A.
b. March 18, 1800 d. May 11, 1869
United States Naval Officer. Entering as a Midshipman on March 14, 1814, he would go on to serve 48 years in the United States Navy. He was promoted to Lieutenant on January 13, 1825, Commander on September 8, 1841, and Captain on September 14, 1855. He commanded the "USS Mississippi" in the East India Squadron, and it was at this post he had his greatest moment during his service, as he was second in command.
Stover, Russell
b. 1888 d. May 11, 1954
It was in Omaha that a fellow approached Stover with a chocolate-covered ice cream bar idea. Stover produced and sold it for a year. After the first mad surge for the novelty, sales dropped off and the Stovers bailed out with $25,000. This novelty was the Eskimo Pie. The Stover's moved to Denver where they began "Mrs. Stover's Bungalow Candies." In 1931 they moved their business to Kansas City. Many Kansas Citizens will remember the company headquarters at 1206 Main street in downtown Kansas.
Flatt, Lester
b. June 19, 1914 d. May 11, 1979
Bluegrass Musician. A native of the Cumberland Plateau in East Tennesse, he ranks as one of the all-time preeminent lead singers of Bluegrass music. Born in Sparta,Tennessee, he left school in 1931 at an early age to work in the local textile mills. While working in the mill, he got a part time job at radio station WDBJ to perform with "The Charlie Scott Harmonizers". Later he would team up with Clyde Moody and perform a few shows in and around Burlington,North Carolina.
Rambo (Luttrell), Dottie (Joyce Reba)
b. March 2, 1934 d. May 11, 2008
Gospel Singer, Songwriter. Born Joyce Reba Luttrell. She was a prolific composer in the Christian music industry and credited with up to 2500 songs that she wrote and co-wrote. Many of her songs have been recorded by various artists. She was awarded the Grammy in 1969 for her album, "It's The Soul of Me". She was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame and received many honors over her career, including Songwriter of the Century, the GMA Dove Award, ASCAP Lifetime Achievement Award.
Miller, Frederick Edward John
b. November 24, 1824 d. May 11, 1888
Brewery founder. Founder of the Miller Brewing Company. He came to Milwaukee in 1855, and opened the Plank Road Brewery. Cause of death: Cancer.
Rice, James Clay
b. December 27, 1828 d. May 11, 1864
Civil War Union Brigadier General. Graduating from Yale in 1853, he taught at Natchez, Mississippi before traveling to New York City, where he took a position in the law office of Theodore Sedgwick, and was admitted to the bar in 1856. Upon the start of the Civil War, he was commissioned 1st Lieutenant and Adjutant with the 39th New York Volunteer Infantry (the "Garibaldi Guard") and was engaged in action at the Battle of First Manassas (Bull Run). He was promoted to Captain in August 1861.
Pollard, Frederick Douglass
b. January 27, 1894 d. May 11, 1986
"Fritz" Pollard was the first African-American to play in the Rose Bowl with Brown University in 1915 and was named the first African-American head coach in NFL history with the 1921 Akron Pros. He began his NFL career as a halfback with Akron in 1919 as one of two African-Americans in the league. He led the Pros to the first NFL championship in 1920. He also played for the Milwaukee Badgers, Hammond Pros and Providence Steam Roller in the NFL between 1919-26.
Barker, Lex
b. May 8, 1919 d. May 11, 1973
Actor. Born Alexander Crichlow Barker Jr. Died of a heart attack at the age of 54. Ex-husband of actress Lana Turner and actress Arlene Dahl. Married to actress Irene Labhardt until her death in 1962. Appeared in "Doll Face" (1945), "Tarzan's Magic Fountain" (1949), "Tarzan and the She Devil" (1953), and "Jungle Heat" (1957).
Howells, William Dean
b. March 1, 1837 d. May 11, 1920
Writer.
Smith, Maynard 'Snuffy'
b. May 19, 1911 d. May 11, 1984
World War II Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. Served in the United States Army Air Corps during World War II as a Sergeant in the 423rd Bombardment Squadron, 306th Bomber Group. He was awarded the CMOH for his bravery over Europe on May 1, 1943. Eighth Air Force bombers and fighters began arriving in England during the spring of 1942. The first heavy bomber mission against targets in Occupied Europe was flown on August 17, 1942.
Rockefeller Jr., John D.
b. January 29, 1874 d. May 11, 1960
Philanthropist, Social Reformer. The only son of John D. Rockefeller, he was born in Cleveland, Ohio, into one of the wealthiest American families of his time. His father had founded and was President of Standard Oil Company. His parents' strict discipline and frugal lifestyle were impressed upon him from the first day. His father's attitude could be explained with the question: "Is it right, is it duty?" From this, he admitted, he took responsibility early, and was serious.
Puller, Lewis B.
b. August 18, 1945 d. May 11, 1994
Author, and First Lieutenant, USMC (retired). He won the 1992 Pulitzer Prize for his autobiography, "Fortunate Son." His military awards include the Silver Star, the Purple Heart (2 awards), and the Navy Commendation Medal. Cause of death: suicide (by gunshot). One of the last victims of the Vietnam War. His father was the legendary Lieutenant General Lewis B. "Chesty" Puller, the most decorated Marine in US History.
Lincoln, Evelyn Norton
b. June 25, 1909 d. May 11, 1995
She was the personal secretary to President John F. Kennedy. She was known for visiting Kennedy's grave at Arlington Cemetery every year on the anniversary of his death. In 1988 on the 25th anniversary, she went alone to the grave and laid three red roses near the eternal flame. Mrs. Lincoln also was the author of two best selling books, "My 12 Years with John F. Kennedy" and "Kennedy and Johnson."
Gould, Chester
b. November 20, 1900 d. May 11, 1985
Cartoonist. He is best known for creating the "Dick Tracy" cartoon strip. Born in Pawnee, Oklahoma, he spent 10 years working on various comic strips at the Chicago “Tribune”-New York “News” Syndicate under editor Joseph Medill Patterson before creating "Dick Tracy" in 1931. (Patterson shortened the first name from his original "Plainclothes Tracy" to the then nickname for detective, and the result was comic strip immortality.)
Terry, Dewey
b. 1938 d. May 11, 2003
R&B/Rock Musician. He was one-half of the musical group duo, 'Don & Dewey.' Born and raised in Pasadena, California, Dewey Terry and Don Harris, were high school friends. They first joined the musical group, 'The Squires' and recorded for the Vita Record Label before leaving and forming 'Don & Terry' and recording for the Specialty Record Label. The band was formed in Pasadena, California, in 1957, and had Dewey on keyboards/vocals and Don playing guitar and sometimes violin.
Blassie, Michael Joseph
b. April 4, 1948 d. May 11, 1972
United States Army Vietnam Veteran. A 1970 graduate of the United States Air Force Academy, he served in the Viet Nam War as a 1st Lieutenant the 8th Special Operations Squadron. He was shot down and killed while piloting his A-37B Dragonfly aircraft in the vicinity of An Loc, in South Vietnam. His remains were buried in Arlington National Cemetery's Tomb of The Unknowns as an unidentified soldier from the Vietnam War.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Died On This Date
May 10
Revere, Paul
b. January 1, 1735 d. May 10, 1818
Revolutionary War Patriot. A talented silversmith and member of the Revolutionary movement in Massachusetts, his attempts to warn prominent Massachusetts patriot members Samuel Adams and John Hancock, as well as the Lexington countryside of the impending approach of British Regular troops on April 18, 1775 was popularized by poet William Wadsworth Longfellow's highly fictionalized poem "The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere".
Jackson, Thomas Jonathan 'Stonewall'
b. January 21, 1824 d. May 10, 1863
Civil War Confederate Major General. Born in what is now the state of West Virginia, in the town of Clarksburg to parents who unable to secure medical attention died literally as the result of extreme poverty. Orphaned, he was taken in and raised by an uncle. Desiring an education, Thomas Jackson applied to West Point, realizing acceptance meant a free education. Though, ill-prepared, he applied himself and his grades improved each year resulting graduating 17th in a class of 59. Cause of death: Pneumonia.
Crawford, Joan (Lucille Fay LeSueur)
b. March 23, 1905 d. May 10, 1977
Actress. Born Lucille Fay Le Sueur in San Antonio, Texas, but christened Joan Crawford by Hollywood, she exemplified the 1920s carefree "flapper" era to a 'T'. Her beauty and vivacity catapulted her to stardom in the late 1920s in the hugely popular silent classic "Our Dancing Daughters". Ever since that point, the resilient actress with the ever expressive eyes, the famous overpainted lips and the will of steel created for herself one of the most legendary and enduring Hollywood personae Cause of death: Cancer and acute coronary occlusion.
Michael, Moina Belle
b. August 15, 1869 d. May 10, 1944
Educator, "Poppy Lady." Moina Michael established the poppy as a universal symbol of tribute and support for veterans. Flanders Field is a United States military cemetery near Waregem, Belgium which contain the bodies of 368 Americans who died in World War I. It was the source for the famous poem, "In Flanders Field" by Canadian poet John McCrae.
Willcox, Orlando Bolivar
b. April 16, 1823 d. May 10, 1907
Civil War Union Brigadier General, Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. Born in Detroit, Michigan, he graduated 8th in the United States Military Academy class of 1847. After his graduation, he served in garrisons in Mexico, New Mexico Territory, Massachusetts, and Florida. In 1857 he resigned his commission, returned to his hometown, and became a lawyer. Reenlisting in military service on May 1, 1861, with the rank of Colonel of the 1st Michigan Volunteer Infantry.
Kelly, George E.M.
b. 1878 d. May 10, 1911
United States Army Officer. 2nd Lieutenant Kelly was the first U.S. military pilot to lose his life while flying a military aircraft. Kelly was attempting to land his aricraft when a front strut collapsed, causing his aircraft to veer toward an encampment of the 11th Infantry. To avoid crashing into the tents, Kelly banked sharply and was killed when his plane smashed into the ground. San Antonio's Kelly Air Force Base was named in his honor.
Weber, Joe
b. August 11, 1867 d. May 10, 1942
Comedian, Theatrical Producer. Joe Weber was the "business smart" half of Weber and Fields, a 19th century comedy team that ended up revolutionizing the 20th century musical theater. In 1877, Weber teamed with his Bowery, NY neighbor and friend, Lew Fields, to develop a knockabout comedy act to play the local saloons. Both Joe and Lew were nine years old. They based their characters, Mike and Meyer, on caricatures of the Dutch German immigrants they saw on the streets in the Bowery.
Silverstein, Shel
b. September 25, 1930 d. May 10, 1999
Poet, Writer, Humorist, Cartoonist, Composer, Recording artist. Born Sheldon Allan Silverstein, he was the son of Nathan and Helen Silverstein. As early as age twelve, Silverstein was drawing and writing works of strange and wondrous humor. He claimed that it was his only real talent and joked that he sometimes was more interested in it than in girls. He was quoted as saying that he had no real influences for his art and did not even see works by those he would come to admire. Cause of death: Heart attack.
Halyburton Jr., William David
b. October 2, 1924 d. May 10, 1945
WW II Congressional Medal of Honor recipient. Served as a Pharmacist's Mate Second Class, U.S. Naval Reserve with a Marine Rifle Company in the 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division. During action against Japanese forces on May 10, 1945 at Okinawa, he dashed across an open fire-swept field where the company was pinned down to assist casualties. Moving steadily forward he reached a wounded Marine and shielded the fallen fighter with his own body.
Walley, Deborah
b. August 12, 1943 d. May 10, 2001
She was the perky young actress that succeeded Sandra Dee in the "Gidget" sequel. She starred in several beach frolic movies of the 1960s. A fan favorite from the beginning, the petite red head was chosen Photoplay Magazine's Most Popular Actress in 1961. She may have created her best legacy away from Hollywood. Moving to Arizona to rear her three sons, she co-founded two children's theater companies, Pied Piper Productions and the Sedona Children's Theatre. Cause of death: Esophageal cancer.
Padgett, Benjamin Lewis
b. March 20, 1894 d. May 10, 1951
United States Army Officer. Gained the sobrequet "Gadget Padgett" after he invented a simple wooden machine that allowed the shifting of colored paper to represent statistical trends in motion. He was paid a large sum for the Graph Device from a major business machine company of this century. Joined the United States Army in World War I and soon found himself working for future President Herbert Hoover on the American Relief Effort to ease the plight of more than 120,000 Americans stranded .
Beckett, Scotty
b. October 4, 1929 d. May 10, 1968Actor. He is best-known for his role as Scotty, one of the cutest of "The Little Rascals". Born in Oakland, California, Beckett had already made his film debut (at age three) when producer Hal Roach signed him up for his "Our Gang" series in 1934. Clad in an oversized sweater and a baseball cap worn sideways, he was always watchable but never really developed his own personality among the gang. Scotty was most often paired with Spanky to provide wry commentary about the bigger kids. Cause of death: Drug overdose.
Stevens, Craig
b. July 8, 1918 d. May 10, 2000
Actor. An American motion picture and television figure, he was best known as television's "Peter Gunn". Cause of death: Cancer.
Revere, Paul
b. January 1, 1735 d. May 10, 1818
Revolutionary War Patriot. A talented silversmith and member of the Revolutionary movement in Massachusetts, his attempts to warn prominent Massachusetts patriot members Samuel Adams and John Hancock, as well as the Lexington countryside of the impending approach of British Regular troops on April 18, 1775 was popularized by poet William Wadsworth Longfellow's highly fictionalized poem "The Midnight Ride of Paul Revere".
Jackson, Thomas Jonathan 'Stonewall'
b. January 21, 1824 d. May 10, 1863
Civil War Confederate Major General. Born in what is now the state of West Virginia, in the town of Clarksburg to parents who unable to secure medical attention died literally as the result of extreme poverty. Orphaned, he was taken in and raised by an uncle. Desiring an education, Thomas Jackson applied to West Point, realizing acceptance meant a free education. Though, ill-prepared, he applied himself and his grades improved each year resulting graduating 17th in a class of 59. Cause of death: Pneumonia.
Crawford, Joan (Lucille Fay LeSueur)
b. March 23, 1905 d. May 10, 1977
Actress. Born Lucille Fay Le Sueur in San Antonio, Texas, but christened Joan Crawford by Hollywood, she exemplified the 1920s carefree "flapper" era to a 'T'. Her beauty and vivacity catapulted her to stardom in the late 1920s in the hugely popular silent classic "Our Dancing Daughters". Ever since that point, the resilient actress with the ever expressive eyes, the famous overpainted lips and the will of steel created for herself one of the most legendary and enduring Hollywood personae Cause of death: Cancer and acute coronary occlusion.
Michael, Moina Belle
b. August 15, 1869 d. May 10, 1944
Educator, "Poppy Lady." Moina Michael established the poppy as a universal symbol of tribute and support for veterans. Flanders Field is a United States military cemetery near Waregem, Belgium which contain the bodies of 368 Americans who died in World War I. It was the source for the famous poem, "In Flanders Field" by Canadian poet John McCrae.
Willcox, Orlando Bolivar
b. April 16, 1823 d. May 10, 1907
Civil War Union Brigadier General, Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. Born in Detroit, Michigan, he graduated 8th in the United States Military Academy class of 1847. After his graduation, he served in garrisons in Mexico, New Mexico Territory, Massachusetts, and Florida. In 1857 he resigned his commission, returned to his hometown, and became a lawyer. Reenlisting in military service on May 1, 1861, with the rank of Colonel of the 1st Michigan Volunteer Infantry.
Kelly, George E.M.
b. 1878 d. May 10, 1911
United States Army Officer. 2nd Lieutenant Kelly was the first U.S. military pilot to lose his life while flying a military aircraft. Kelly was attempting to land his aricraft when a front strut collapsed, causing his aircraft to veer toward an encampment of the 11th Infantry. To avoid crashing into the tents, Kelly banked sharply and was killed when his plane smashed into the ground. San Antonio's Kelly Air Force Base was named in his honor.
Weber, Joe
b. August 11, 1867 d. May 10, 1942
Comedian, Theatrical Producer. Joe Weber was the "business smart" half of Weber and Fields, a 19th century comedy team that ended up revolutionizing the 20th century musical theater. In 1877, Weber teamed with his Bowery, NY neighbor and friend, Lew Fields, to develop a knockabout comedy act to play the local saloons. Both Joe and Lew were nine years old. They based their characters, Mike and Meyer, on caricatures of the Dutch German immigrants they saw on the streets in the Bowery.
Silverstein, Shel
b. September 25, 1930 d. May 10, 1999
Poet, Writer, Humorist, Cartoonist, Composer, Recording artist. Born Sheldon Allan Silverstein, he was the son of Nathan and Helen Silverstein. As early as age twelve, Silverstein was drawing and writing works of strange and wondrous humor. He claimed that it was his only real talent and joked that he sometimes was more interested in it than in girls. He was quoted as saying that he had no real influences for his art and did not even see works by those he would come to admire. Cause of death: Heart attack.
Halyburton Jr., William David
b. October 2, 1924 d. May 10, 1945
WW II Congressional Medal of Honor recipient. Served as a Pharmacist's Mate Second Class, U.S. Naval Reserve with a Marine Rifle Company in the 2nd Battalion, 5th Marines, 1st Marine Division. During action against Japanese forces on May 10, 1945 at Okinawa, he dashed across an open fire-swept field where the company was pinned down to assist casualties. Moving steadily forward he reached a wounded Marine and shielded the fallen fighter with his own body.
Walley, Deborah
b. August 12, 1943 d. May 10, 2001
She was the perky young actress that succeeded Sandra Dee in the "Gidget" sequel. She starred in several beach frolic movies of the 1960s. A fan favorite from the beginning, the petite red head was chosen Photoplay Magazine's Most Popular Actress in 1961. She may have created her best legacy away from Hollywood. Moving to Arizona to rear her three sons, she co-founded two children's theater companies, Pied Piper Productions and the Sedona Children's Theatre. Cause of death: Esophageal cancer.
Padgett, Benjamin Lewis
b. March 20, 1894 d. May 10, 1951
United States Army Officer. Gained the sobrequet "Gadget Padgett" after he invented a simple wooden machine that allowed the shifting of colored paper to represent statistical trends in motion. He was paid a large sum for the Graph Device from a major business machine company of this century. Joined the United States Army in World War I and soon found himself working for future President Herbert Hoover on the American Relief Effort to ease the plight of more than 120,000 Americans stranded .
Beckett, Scotty
b. October 4, 1929 d. May 10, 1968Actor. He is best-known for his role as Scotty, one of the cutest of "The Little Rascals". Born in Oakland, California, Beckett had already made his film debut (at age three) when producer Hal Roach signed him up for his "Our Gang" series in 1934. Clad in an oversized sweater and a baseball cap worn sideways, he was always watchable but never really developed his own personality among the gang. Scotty was most often paired with Spanky to provide wry commentary about the bigger kids. Cause of death: Drug overdose.
Stevens, Craig
b. July 8, 1918 d. May 10, 2000
Actor. An American motion picture and television figure, he was best known as television's "Peter Gunn". Cause of death: Cancer.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Died On This Date
May 9
Hawken, Samuel
b. October 26, 1792 d. May 9, 1884
Gunsmith. Born in Hagerstown, Maryland, he moved west to establish a gunsmithy in Xenia, Ohio. Sometime after 1821, Hawken's wife died and he relocated to St. Louis where his elder brother, Jacob, and his partner also worked as gunsmiths. Hawken set up his own independent shop and would not form a partnership with his brother until 1825 when Jacob's business partner died. The brothers were considered the best gunsmiths in St. Louis and the product they turned out were high quality arms.
Jones, James
b. November 6, 1921 d. May 9, 1977
American Novelist. Born and raised in Robinson, Illinois, Jones joined the U.S. Army soon after graduating from High School in 1939. He was stationed at Schofield Barracks on Oahu, where he witnessed the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. He is best remembered for his trilogy of war novels, From Here to Eternity (1951), The Thin Red Line (1962) and Whistle (1978), which have been called “our most significant fictional treatment of U.S. involvement in World War II.”
Faye, Alice
b. May 5, 1915 d. May 9, 1998
Actress. Born Alice Jeane Leppert and raised in New York City’s “Hells Kitchen,” Alice Faye quit school at 14 to become a chorus girl, lying about her age in order to get the audition. She danced in the famous “George White’s Scandals” revues. Not long after that she was discovered by Rudy Vallee, who hired her to sing with his band. Vallee went to Hollywood to star in Fox’s 1934 film version of George White’s Scandals and Faye, who was slated to sing one song in the film. Cause of death: Stomach cancer.
Hopkinson, Francis
b. September 21, 1737 d. May 9, 1791
Signer of the Declaration of Independence from New Jersey. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. At the age of 14, he was the first student to enroll in the Philadelphia Academy, and the first to be given a diploma by the College of Philadelphia. He studied to become a lawyer, but for many years, did little legal work. More interested in the arts, he preferred to draw pictures, wrote poems, and composed songs.
Penry, Richard Allen
b. November 18, 1948 d. May 9, 1994
Viet Nam Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. Penry served as a Sergeant, United States Army, Company C, 4th Battalion, 12th Infantry, 199th Infantry Brigade. He was awarded his medal for service at Binh Tuy Province, Republic of Vietnam, on January 31, 1970. His citation reads-For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sgt. Penry, Company C, distinguished himself while serving as a rifleman during a night ambush mission.
Whitley, Keith
b. July 1, 1955 d. May 9, 1989
Country Singer. Husband of country singer Lorrie Morgan. Born Jessie Keith Whitley in Sandy Hook, Kentucky. Keith learned to play guitar at age 6 and first appeared on the Buddy Starcher's regional TV show at age 8. He formed a bluegrass band with his friend Ricky Skaggs a few years later. When both teenagers were 15 years old they were asked to play a local show when Ralph Stanley's entourage was running late. Stanley hired them for his band and they stayed for two years until Keith went to. Cause of death: Alcohol poisoning.
King, Alan
b. December 26, 1927 d. May 9, 2004
Entertainer, Actor. Born Irwin Alan Kniberg, King starred in over thirty different films and produced several films and television shows. At the time of his death, King was serving as the Abbot of the New York Friar's Club, a guild of actors who are known for their famous roasts. King was also known for holding the record for number of appearances on "The Ed Sullivan Show," appearing on that stage a staggering 93 times.
Devaney, Bob
b. April 13, 1915 d. May 9, 1997
Legendary footbal coach who won two National Championships at Nebraska including the 1971 "Game of the Century" versus Oklahoma.
Post, Charles William 'C.W.'
b. October 26, 1854 d. May 9, 1914
Cereal Magnate and Inventor of Grape-Nuts. Cause of death: Suicide by gunshot.
Lorne, Marion
b. August 12, 1885 d. May 9, 1968
Actress. Fondly remembered as the dithery, bumbling Aunt Clara on the "Bewitched" (1964) television series, endearing character actress Marion Lorne had a five decade career on the stage before she became a household name. Born Marion Lorne MacDougall, she grew up in her native Pennsylvania, the daughter of Scottish and English immigrants. Trained at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York, she appeared in stock shows, and was on the Broadway boards by 1905.
Conroy, Donald 'The Great Santini'
b. April 4, 1921 d. May 9, 1998
Conroy was the father of author Pat Conroy, whose book, "The Great Santini," was based on the life of his father, Donald Conroy. In the movie version of "The Great Santini" Robert Duvall played the character based on Donald Conroy. He was part of the Black Sheep Squadron during the Korean War and served two tours of duty in Vietnam. Cause of death: Colon cancer.
Pinza, Ezio Fortunato
b. May 18, 1892 d. May 9, 1957
Opera Singer. It is said that his father insisted that he give up civil engineering to become an opera singer. He switched careers, studying at the Conservatory of Bologna, with a three-year stint at La Scala in Milan. His New York debut at the Met was in 1926 where he sang bass until 1949. He then launched a third career, starring on Broadway in "South Pacific", leading to roles in records, radio, movies, and television.
O'Brien, Edmond
b. September 10, 1915 d. May 9, 1985
Actor. Born in New York City, he was a major Hollywood screen star for nearly four decades. A graduate of Columbia University, he began his early career honing his skills to become a magician, before deciding to pursue a career in motion pictures. He made his screen debut as an extra in the 1938 film "The Prisoner." The following year he received his first major on-screen acting credit as Gringoire in the "Hunchback of Notre Dame." Cause of death: Alzheimers disease complicated by heart problems.
Sedgwick, John
b. September 13, 1813 d. May 9, 1864
Civil War Union Major General. One of the best known Corps commanders of the Army of the Potomac during the Civil War. General Sedgwick, a 1837 West Point graduate, served in the Mexican War and on the US Frontier, often with many army officers who would become generals for both the South and the North in the war. He commanded a division in the Second Corps during General George B. McClellan's Pennisular compaign, the Second Bull Run campaign, and the Battle of Antietam.
Summers, James Calvin
b. February 14, 1838 d. May 9, 1927
Civil Warm Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. He served as a Private in the Union Army in Company H, 4th West Virginia Infantry. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for action at Vicksburg, Mississippi on May 22, 1863. His citation reads "Gallantry in charge of the "volunteer storming party".
Higginson, Thomas Wentworth
b. December 22, 1828 d. May 9, 1911
Civil War Union Army Officer. A major abolitionist figure in the pre-Civil War days, he served as Colonel and commander of the 1st South Carolina (USA) Volunteer Infantry, which was the very first African-American Union infantry regiment of the Civil War. He recruited escaped slaved from South Carolina to fight the Confederacy, and pre-dated the more famous 54th Massachusetts Infantry by nearly a year. He served first as Captain and commander of Company C, 51st Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry.
Corliss, Stephen Potter
b. July 25, 1842 d. May 9, 1904
Civil War Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. Served during the Civil War as a First Lieutenant in Company F, 4th New York Heavy Artillery, and was awarded the Medal of Honor for bravery at Battle of South Side Railroad, Virginia, on April 2, 1865. The Confederates had a battery posted on an elevation near the South Side Railroad where it intersected with the White Oak Road leading into Petersburg when the order came to capture the battery.
Howell, Hoke
b. August 27, 1929 d. May 9, 1997
Actor. Born in Georgia and raised in South Carolina he used his smooth southern accent and unique acting style to get his start on Broadway in 1958. In the early 1960’s he went to California where he became one of Hollywood’s most recognizable character actors. One of his earliest and most memorable roles was that of Dud Wash, the boyfriend of Charlene Darling on the Andy Griffith Show. Cause of death: Heart failure.
Harney, William Selby
b. August 27, 1800 d. May 9, 1889
Civil War Union Brigadier General. Born in Haysboro, Tennessee, the son of Thomas and Margaret Harney. He was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the First United States Infantry in February of 1818. He fought in the First Seminole War and was promoted to First Lieutenant in January 1819. Harney was promoted to Major in the Paymaster Corps in May 1833 and then to Lieutenant Colonel of the Second Dragoons in August 1836.
Hawken, Samuel
b. October 26, 1792 d. May 9, 1884
Gunsmith. Born in Hagerstown, Maryland, he moved west to establish a gunsmithy in Xenia, Ohio. Sometime after 1821, Hawken's wife died and he relocated to St. Louis where his elder brother, Jacob, and his partner also worked as gunsmiths. Hawken set up his own independent shop and would not form a partnership with his brother until 1825 when Jacob's business partner died. The brothers were considered the best gunsmiths in St. Louis and the product they turned out were high quality arms.
Jones, James
b. November 6, 1921 d. May 9, 1977
American Novelist. Born and raised in Robinson, Illinois, Jones joined the U.S. Army soon after graduating from High School in 1939. He was stationed at Schofield Barracks on Oahu, where he witnessed the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. He is best remembered for his trilogy of war novels, From Here to Eternity (1951), The Thin Red Line (1962) and Whistle (1978), which have been called “our most significant fictional treatment of U.S. involvement in World War II.”
Faye, Alice
b. May 5, 1915 d. May 9, 1998
Actress. Born Alice Jeane Leppert and raised in New York City’s “Hells Kitchen,” Alice Faye quit school at 14 to become a chorus girl, lying about her age in order to get the audition. She danced in the famous “George White’s Scandals” revues. Not long after that she was discovered by Rudy Vallee, who hired her to sing with his band. Vallee went to Hollywood to star in Fox’s 1934 film version of George White’s Scandals and Faye, who was slated to sing one song in the film. Cause of death: Stomach cancer.
Hopkinson, Francis
b. September 21, 1737 d. May 9, 1791
Signer of the Declaration of Independence from New Jersey. Born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. At the age of 14, he was the first student to enroll in the Philadelphia Academy, and the first to be given a diploma by the College of Philadelphia. He studied to become a lawyer, but for many years, did little legal work. More interested in the arts, he preferred to draw pictures, wrote poems, and composed songs.
Penry, Richard Allen
b. November 18, 1948 d. May 9, 1994
Viet Nam Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. Penry served as a Sergeant, United States Army, Company C, 4th Battalion, 12th Infantry, 199th Infantry Brigade. He was awarded his medal for service at Binh Tuy Province, Republic of Vietnam, on January 31, 1970. His citation reads-For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sgt. Penry, Company C, distinguished himself while serving as a rifleman during a night ambush mission.
Whitley, Keith
b. July 1, 1955 d. May 9, 1989
Country Singer. Husband of country singer Lorrie Morgan. Born Jessie Keith Whitley in Sandy Hook, Kentucky. Keith learned to play guitar at age 6 and first appeared on the Buddy Starcher's regional TV show at age 8. He formed a bluegrass band with his friend Ricky Skaggs a few years later. When both teenagers were 15 years old they were asked to play a local show when Ralph Stanley's entourage was running late. Stanley hired them for his band and they stayed for two years until Keith went to. Cause of death: Alcohol poisoning.
King, Alan
b. December 26, 1927 d. May 9, 2004
Entertainer, Actor. Born Irwin Alan Kniberg, King starred in over thirty different films and produced several films and television shows. At the time of his death, King was serving as the Abbot of the New York Friar's Club, a guild of actors who are known for their famous roasts. King was also known for holding the record for number of appearances on "The Ed Sullivan Show," appearing on that stage a staggering 93 times.
Devaney, Bob
b. April 13, 1915 d. May 9, 1997
Legendary footbal coach who won two National Championships at Nebraska including the 1971 "Game of the Century" versus Oklahoma.
Post, Charles William 'C.W.'
b. October 26, 1854 d. May 9, 1914
Cereal Magnate and Inventor of Grape-Nuts. Cause of death: Suicide by gunshot.
Lorne, Marion
b. August 12, 1885 d. May 9, 1968
Actress. Fondly remembered as the dithery, bumbling Aunt Clara on the "Bewitched" (1964) television series, endearing character actress Marion Lorne had a five decade career on the stage before she became a household name. Born Marion Lorne MacDougall, she grew up in her native Pennsylvania, the daughter of Scottish and English immigrants. Trained at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York, she appeared in stock shows, and was on the Broadway boards by 1905.
Conroy, Donald 'The Great Santini'
b. April 4, 1921 d. May 9, 1998
Conroy was the father of author Pat Conroy, whose book, "The Great Santini," was based on the life of his father, Donald Conroy. In the movie version of "The Great Santini" Robert Duvall played the character based on Donald Conroy. He was part of the Black Sheep Squadron during the Korean War and served two tours of duty in Vietnam. Cause of death: Colon cancer.
Pinza, Ezio Fortunato
b. May 18, 1892 d. May 9, 1957
Opera Singer. It is said that his father insisted that he give up civil engineering to become an opera singer. He switched careers, studying at the Conservatory of Bologna, with a three-year stint at La Scala in Milan. His New York debut at the Met was in 1926 where he sang bass until 1949. He then launched a third career, starring on Broadway in "South Pacific", leading to roles in records, radio, movies, and television.
O'Brien, Edmond
b. September 10, 1915 d. May 9, 1985
Actor. Born in New York City, he was a major Hollywood screen star for nearly four decades. A graduate of Columbia University, he began his early career honing his skills to become a magician, before deciding to pursue a career in motion pictures. He made his screen debut as an extra in the 1938 film "The Prisoner." The following year he received his first major on-screen acting credit as Gringoire in the "Hunchback of Notre Dame." Cause of death: Alzheimers disease complicated by heart problems.
Sedgwick, John
b. September 13, 1813 d. May 9, 1864
Civil War Union Major General. One of the best known Corps commanders of the Army of the Potomac during the Civil War. General Sedgwick, a 1837 West Point graduate, served in the Mexican War and on the US Frontier, often with many army officers who would become generals for both the South and the North in the war. He commanded a division in the Second Corps during General George B. McClellan's Pennisular compaign, the Second Bull Run campaign, and the Battle of Antietam.
Summers, James Calvin
b. February 14, 1838 d. May 9, 1927
Civil Warm Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. He served as a Private in the Union Army in Company H, 4th West Virginia Infantry. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for action at Vicksburg, Mississippi on May 22, 1863. His citation reads "Gallantry in charge of the "volunteer storming party".
Higginson, Thomas Wentworth
b. December 22, 1828 d. May 9, 1911
Civil War Union Army Officer. A major abolitionist figure in the pre-Civil War days, he served as Colonel and commander of the 1st South Carolina (USA) Volunteer Infantry, which was the very first African-American Union infantry regiment of the Civil War. He recruited escaped slaved from South Carolina to fight the Confederacy, and pre-dated the more famous 54th Massachusetts Infantry by nearly a year. He served first as Captain and commander of Company C, 51st Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry.
Corliss, Stephen Potter
b. July 25, 1842 d. May 9, 1904
Civil War Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. Served during the Civil War as a First Lieutenant in Company F, 4th New York Heavy Artillery, and was awarded the Medal of Honor for bravery at Battle of South Side Railroad, Virginia, on April 2, 1865. The Confederates had a battery posted on an elevation near the South Side Railroad where it intersected with the White Oak Road leading into Petersburg when the order came to capture the battery.
Howell, Hoke
b. August 27, 1929 d. May 9, 1997
Actor. Born in Georgia and raised in South Carolina he used his smooth southern accent and unique acting style to get his start on Broadway in 1958. In the early 1960’s he went to California where he became one of Hollywood’s most recognizable character actors. One of his earliest and most memorable roles was that of Dud Wash, the boyfriend of Charlene Darling on the Andy Griffith Show. Cause of death: Heart failure.
Harney, William Selby
b. August 27, 1800 d. May 9, 1889
Civil War Union Brigadier General. Born in Haysboro, Tennessee, the son of Thomas and Margaret Harney. He was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in the First United States Infantry in February of 1818. He fought in the First Seminole War and was promoted to First Lieutenant in January 1819. Harney was promoted to Major in the Paymaster Corps in May 1833 and then to Lieutenant Colonel of the Second Dragoons in August 1836.
Friday, May 8, 2009
Died On This Date
May 8
Arnold, Eddy (Richard Edward)
b. May 15, 1918 d. May 8, 2008
Country Music Singer. A country gentleman who brought style and innumerable fans to country music, he was at heart just a "Tennessee Plowboy". During his career he sold more than 85 million records starting in the 1940's and ending with his last and 100th album "After All This Time" released in 2005. He ranks as Billboard magazine's single most popular country artist of all time. Some of his popular hits include, "The Cattle Call", "Make the World Go Away", and "Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye".
Peppard, George
b. October 1, 1928 d. May 8, 1994
Actor, he is best remembered for his breakthrough role of Paul “Fred” Varjak in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” (1961), and for his role of Colonel John “Hannibal” Smith in the television series “The A-Team” (1983-1986). Born in Detroit, Michigan, the son of opera singer and building contractor Vernelle Rohrer. He graduated from Dearborn High School in nearby Dearborn, Michigan, and attended Purdue University, where he studied Engineering, later transferring to Carnegie Mellon University. Cause of death: Pneumonia.
Thordsen, William George
b. April 2, 1879 d. May 8, 1932
Philippine Insurrection Medal of Honor Recipient. He was serving as a Coxswain in the United States Navy when he earned his Medal. His citation reads: For heroism and gallantry under fire of the enemy at Hilongas, Philippine Islands, 6 May 1900. His Medal was awarded on August 15, 1900. He later served as Chief Gunners Mate.
Fox, William
b. January 1, 1879 d. May 8, 1952
Motion Picture Pioneer. Founder of the Fox Film Corporation. He was born Wilhelm Fried in Tulchva, Hungary, to German-Jewish parents. In the US from infancy, he was raised in a tenement in New York's Lower East Side and left school at age 11 to help support his family. After years of toiling in the garment business, he bought a penny arcade in 1904 and was soon operating nickelodeons throughout Brooklyn and Manhattan; he then set up a film distribution branch, The Greater New York Rental.
Andrews, Laverne
b. July 6, 1915 d. May 8, 1967
Jazz Musician. Along with her sisters Maxene and Patty, she was part of the Big Band singing Trio "The Andrews Sisters". Enormously popular during World War II, they were dubbed as "America's Wartime Sweethearts". Cause of death: Cancer.
Stark, John
b. August 28, 1728 d. May 8, 1822
Revolutionary War Continental Army Major General. John Stark was born in Londonderry, New Hampshire. He served as a captain in Roger's Rangers during the French and Indian War (1752-1760). At the outbreak of the American Revolution, Clark became a colonel of a regiment of New Hampshire militia. His first action was at Bunker Hill on June 17, 1775, where his heroic action kept the British from flanking the Colonials on Breed's Hill.
DeCastro, Joseph H.
b. November 14, 1844 d. May 8, 1892
Civil War Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. Served in the Civil War as a Corporal in Company I, 19th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry. He was awarded the CMOH for his bravery during his regiment's attack and repulse of elements of Pickett's Charge on the Third Day of the Battle of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania (July 3, 1863). His citation reads "Capture of flag of 19th Virginia regiment (C.S.A.)". His Medal was issued on December 1, 1864. He was one of seven 19th Massachusetts Infantry.
Gauguin, Paul
b. June 7, 1848 d. May 8, 1903
Painter and woodcut artist. First he was a sailor, then a stockbroker in Paris but painted in his free time. He began working with Camille Pissarro in 1874 and showed in every Impressionist exhibition between 1879 and 1886. In 1884 he moved with his family to Copenhagen, where he unsuccessfully pursued a business career. He returned to Paris in 1885 to paint full-time, leaving his family in Denmark.
Krotiak, Anton L.
b. August 15, 1915 d. May 8, 1945
World War II Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. He was killed in action. He served as a Private First Class in the United States Army in Company I, 148th Infantry, 37th Infantry Division. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for action on May 8, 1945 at Balete Pass, Luzon, Philippine Islands. His citation reads in part "A grenade thrown from above landed in the center of the group.
Williams, Garth
b. April 16, 1912 d. May 8, 1996
Artist, Illustrator. He began his career as an artist, becoming headmaster of Luton Art School in England. He was given the British "Prix de Rome" for his sculptures. After returning to America, he turned to illustration, doing work for "The New Yorker." His first book illustrations were for E.B. White's "Stuart Little." This was such a success that he became a full time illustrator of children's books. Williams is perhaps best known for illustrating most of Laura Ingalls Wilder's "Little House On the Prarie."
Ryan, George E.
b. April 19, 1836 d. May 8, 1864
Civil War Union Army Officer. A 1857 graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York, he served as a 1st Lieutenant in the 7th United States Regular Infantry in the early days of the war. Promoted to Captain in July 1862, he served as acting Adjutant General on the staff of Major General George Sykes from December 1862 to June 1863, and as acting Adjutant General and Chief of Staff to Brigadier General Romeyn B. Ayers from June 1863 to July 1863.
Grant, Joe
b. May 15, 1908 d. May 8, 2005
Cartoonist, Writer. One of Walt Disney's most talented artists and story men, his career spanned over 70 years. With his creative partner, Dick Huemer, Grant wrote the original story for "Dumbo" (1941), and he collaborated on the scripts and character designs for "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" (1937), "Pinocchio" (1940), "Fantasia" (1940), and the Oscar-winning short "Der Fuehrer's Face" (1942). Grant was born in New York City and studied at the Chouinard Art Institute in Los Angeles.
Wadsworth, James
b. October 30, 1807 d. May 8, 1864
Civil War Union Major General. Considered by some to be the richest man in the Union army. He never accepted any pay, and offered his fortune to the government at the outset of the war. Served for a short time as a volunteer aide to General Irwin McDowell during the First Manassas Campaign. Appointed Brigadier General, US Volunteers on August 9, 1861. Became Military Governor of the District of Columbia in March 1862, even though he had no formal military training.
Arnold, Eddy (Richard Edward)
b. May 15, 1918 d. May 8, 2008
Country Music Singer. A country gentleman who brought style and innumerable fans to country music, he was at heart just a "Tennessee Plowboy". During his career he sold more than 85 million records starting in the 1940's and ending with his last and 100th album "After All This Time" released in 2005. He ranks as Billboard magazine's single most popular country artist of all time. Some of his popular hits include, "The Cattle Call", "Make the World Go Away", and "Then You Can Tell Me Goodbye".
Peppard, George
b. October 1, 1928 d. May 8, 1994
Actor, he is best remembered for his breakthrough role of Paul “Fred” Varjak in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” (1961), and for his role of Colonel John “Hannibal” Smith in the television series “The A-Team” (1983-1986). Born in Detroit, Michigan, the son of opera singer and building contractor Vernelle Rohrer. He graduated from Dearborn High School in nearby Dearborn, Michigan, and attended Purdue University, where he studied Engineering, later transferring to Carnegie Mellon University. Cause of death: Pneumonia.
Thordsen, William George
b. April 2, 1879 d. May 8, 1932
Philippine Insurrection Medal of Honor Recipient. He was serving as a Coxswain in the United States Navy when he earned his Medal. His citation reads: For heroism and gallantry under fire of the enemy at Hilongas, Philippine Islands, 6 May 1900. His Medal was awarded on August 15, 1900. He later served as Chief Gunners Mate.
Fox, William
b. January 1, 1879 d. May 8, 1952
Motion Picture Pioneer. Founder of the Fox Film Corporation. He was born Wilhelm Fried in Tulchva, Hungary, to German-Jewish parents. In the US from infancy, he was raised in a tenement in New York's Lower East Side and left school at age 11 to help support his family. After years of toiling in the garment business, he bought a penny arcade in 1904 and was soon operating nickelodeons throughout Brooklyn and Manhattan; he then set up a film distribution branch, The Greater New York Rental.
Andrews, Laverne
b. July 6, 1915 d. May 8, 1967
Jazz Musician. Along with her sisters Maxene and Patty, she was part of the Big Band singing Trio "The Andrews Sisters". Enormously popular during World War II, they were dubbed as "America's Wartime Sweethearts". Cause of death: Cancer.
Stark, John
b. August 28, 1728 d. May 8, 1822
Revolutionary War Continental Army Major General. John Stark was born in Londonderry, New Hampshire. He served as a captain in Roger's Rangers during the French and Indian War (1752-1760). At the outbreak of the American Revolution, Clark became a colonel of a regiment of New Hampshire militia. His first action was at Bunker Hill on June 17, 1775, where his heroic action kept the British from flanking the Colonials on Breed's Hill.
DeCastro, Joseph H.
b. November 14, 1844 d. May 8, 1892
Civil War Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. Served in the Civil War as a Corporal in Company I, 19th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry. He was awarded the CMOH for his bravery during his regiment's attack and repulse of elements of Pickett's Charge on the Third Day of the Battle of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania (July 3, 1863). His citation reads "Capture of flag of 19th Virginia regiment (C.S.A.)". His Medal was issued on December 1, 1864. He was one of seven 19th Massachusetts Infantry.
Gauguin, Paul
b. June 7, 1848 d. May 8, 1903
Painter and woodcut artist. First he was a sailor, then a stockbroker in Paris but painted in his free time. He began working with Camille Pissarro in 1874 and showed in every Impressionist exhibition between 1879 and 1886. In 1884 he moved with his family to Copenhagen, where he unsuccessfully pursued a business career. He returned to Paris in 1885 to paint full-time, leaving his family in Denmark.
Krotiak, Anton L.
b. August 15, 1915 d. May 8, 1945
World War II Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. He was killed in action. He served as a Private First Class in the United States Army in Company I, 148th Infantry, 37th Infantry Division. He was awarded the Medal of Honor for action on May 8, 1945 at Balete Pass, Luzon, Philippine Islands. His citation reads in part "A grenade thrown from above landed in the center of the group.
Williams, Garth
b. April 16, 1912 d. May 8, 1996
Artist, Illustrator. He began his career as an artist, becoming headmaster of Luton Art School in England. He was given the British "Prix de Rome" for his sculptures. After returning to America, he turned to illustration, doing work for "The New Yorker." His first book illustrations were for E.B. White's "Stuart Little." This was such a success that he became a full time illustrator of children's books. Williams is perhaps best known for illustrating most of Laura Ingalls Wilder's "Little House On the Prarie."
Ryan, George E.
b. April 19, 1836 d. May 8, 1864
Civil War Union Army Officer. A 1857 graduate of the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York, he served as a 1st Lieutenant in the 7th United States Regular Infantry in the early days of the war. Promoted to Captain in July 1862, he served as acting Adjutant General on the staff of Major General George Sykes from December 1862 to June 1863, and as acting Adjutant General and Chief of Staff to Brigadier General Romeyn B. Ayers from June 1863 to July 1863.
Grant, Joe
b. May 15, 1908 d. May 8, 2005
Cartoonist, Writer. One of Walt Disney's most talented artists and story men, his career spanned over 70 years. With his creative partner, Dick Huemer, Grant wrote the original story for "Dumbo" (1941), and he collaborated on the scripts and character designs for "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" (1937), "Pinocchio" (1940), "Fantasia" (1940), and the Oscar-winning short "Der Fuehrer's Face" (1942). Grant was born in New York City and studied at the Chouinard Art Institute in Los Angeles.
Wadsworth, James
b. October 30, 1807 d. May 8, 1864
Civil War Union Major General. Considered by some to be the richest man in the Union army. He never accepted any pay, and offered his fortune to the government at the outset of the war. Served for a short time as a volunteer aide to General Irwin McDowell during the First Manassas Campaign. Appointed Brigadier General, US Volunteers on August 9, 1861. Became Military Governor of the District of Columbia in March 1862, even though he had no formal military training.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Died On This Date
May 7
Fairbanks Jr., Douglas
b. December 9, 1909 d. May 7, 2000
Actor. Movie star of the 1930s and 1940s. He was the son of silent film star Douglas Fairbanks Sr., and the first husband of actress Joan Crawford. He began his career during the silent era in bit parts until 1923 when he starred in the film Stephen Steps Out which quickly went out of circulation. He continued working and had parts in the films Broken Hearts of Hollywood (1926), Modern Mothers (1928), Dead Man's Curve (1928), A Woman of Affairs (1928) which starred Greta Garbo and John Gilbert.
Rabbitt, Eddie (Edward Thomas)
b. November 27, 1941 d. May 7, 1998
Singer, Songwriter. Born in Brooklyn, New York and raised in East Orange, New Jersey, he was one of the most innovative country artists of alltime. His recording career began in 1964 but he didn't establish himself until he moved to Nashville in 1968. His earliest success was as a songwriter. In 1970 Elvis Presley recorded his song "Kentucky Rain" and in 1974 Ronnie Milsap had his first number one country single with the Eddie Rabbitt composition "Pure Love". Cause of death: Lung cancer.
Stanton, Thomas
b. August 11, 1869 d. May 7, 1950
US Navy Peacetime Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. He served as a Chief Machinist's Mate in the United States Navy. His citation reads "For extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession during the fire on board the USS North Dakota, 8 September 1910."
Williams, Guy (Armand Catalano)
b. January 14, 1924 d. May 7, 1989
Actor. Born Armand Joseph Catalano in New York City, the son of Italian immigrants Attilio and Clare Catalano. He dropped out of the Peekskill Military Academy in pursuit of an acting career, supporting himself with jobs as a welder, accountant, aircraft-parts inspector, and Wanamaker's salesman. His first success was as a model, appearing in print and on billboards. He then adopted the name Guy Williams. In 1946, he signed with MGM Studios making his film debut in 1947's ‘ Cause of death: Brain aneurysm.
Cormack, Allan Macleod
b. February, 1924 d. May 7, 1998
Nobel prize winner in medicine 1979 for the development of computer assisted tomography, known popularly as CAT-Scans. The prize was shared with Geoffrey Hounsfield of Great Brittain, who developed his machine concurrent with Cormack's theoretical work which was a paper published in 1957 suggesting a reconstruction technique called the Radon transform. Born in Johannesburg, South Africa; educated at University of Cape Town and then lectured there; moved to the United States in 1957.
Lamon, Ward Hill
b. January 6, 1828 d. May 7, 1893
Abraham Lincoln's law partner, later becoming President Lincoln's bodyguard.
Miller, Edmund John 'Bing'
b. August 30, 1894 d. May 7, 1966
Major League Baseball Player. He began his career as an outfielder for the Washington Senators in 1921. The next season he played for the Philadelphia Athletics after an off season trade until 1926. He was traded to the St. Louis Browns and two years later traded back to Philadelphia where he remained until 1934. While with the A's, he was a member of three World Series teams in a row. In the 1929 Series, he played in all five games of the win getting 7 hits and driving in four runs.
McCalmont, Alfred Brunson
b. April 28, 1825 d. May 7, 1874
Civil War Union Brevet Brigadier General. Served during the Civil War first as Lieutenant Colonel of the 142nd Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, then as Colonel and commander of the 208th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry. In the July 1863 Battle of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, he assumed command of the regiment when its Colonel, Robert P. Cummins, was killed during the action of the First Day (July 1). He was brevetted Brigadier General, US Volunteers on March 13, 1865 for "gallant services".
Mack, Ray
b. August 31, 1916 d. May 7, 1969
Professional Baseball Player. Real name Raymond James Mlckovsky. He played Major League Baseball for nine seasons with the Cleveland Indians, Chicago Cubs, and very briefly with the New York Yankees. After attending Case Western Reserve University, where he was a Division III football star, he made his big league debut with Cleveland in 1938. He played his entire career at second base and was part of the revered double play combination with shortstop teammate, Lou Boudreau.
Fardy, Corp. John Peter
b. August 8, 1922 d. May 7, 1945
World War II Congressional Medal of Honor recipient. John Peter Fardy served as a Corporal and squad leader with Company C, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa Shima in the Ryukyu Islands. It was on May 6, 1945 when Company C was advancing against a strongly fortified defended Japanese position that Corporal Fardy's squad was suddenly brought under heavy small-arms fire.
Keith, Miguel
b. June 2, 1951 d. May 7, 1970
Medal of honor recipient. Rank and organization: Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, Combined Action platoon 1-3-2, 111 Marine Amphibious Force. Place and date: Quang Ngai province, Republic of Vietnam, 8 May 1970. Entered service at: Omaha, Nebr. Born: 2 June 1951, San Antonio, Tex. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a machine gunner with Combined Action platoon 1-3-2. Cause of death: Killed in action.
Crowder, Enoch H.
b. April 11, 1859 d. May 7, 1932
United States Army General. A United States Army judge advocate general from 1911 to 1920, his comprehensive military plan for World War I included the Selective Service Act (the national draft, adopted in 1917). He served as United States Ambassador to Cuba from 1923 to 1927. Crowder State Park located in Edinburg, Missouri is named for him.
Berg, Nick (Nicholas)
b. April 2, 1978 d. May 7, 2004
Terrorism Victim. A small business owner who owned Prometheus Methods Tower Service, he was an independent contractor who thought his skills could be used to help the people of Iraq by rebuilding communication antennas. He traveled twice to Iraq (the first time was from December 21, 2003 to February 1, 2004. He returned to Iraq on March 14, 2004). On April 9th when he was reportedly stopped at a checkpoint and arrested. It was later revealed he had been kidnapped by Islamic militants. Cause of death: Beheaded by terrorists.
Wilson, John
b. December 29, 1838 d. May 7, 1864
Civil War Union Army Officer. He entered the Union Army with a commission of Captain in the 43rd New York Volunteer Infantry on Aug 3, 1861, having raised a company. He was subsequently engaged in the Battles of Lee's Mills, Warwick's Creek, Yorktown, Golden's Farm, Seven Days Battles, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Marye's Heights, Salem Church, Bank's Ford, 2nd Fredericksburg, Gettysburg, Rappahannock Station, Locust Grove, Mine Run and the Wilderness, and rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
Fairbanks Jr., Douglas
b. December 9, 1909 d. May 7, 2000
Actor. Movie star of the 1930s and 1940s. He was the son of silent film star Douglas Fairbanks Sr., and the first husband of actress Joan Crawford. He began his career during the silent era in bit parts until 1923 when he starred in the film Stephen Steps Out which quickly went out of circulation. He continued working and had parts in the films Broken Hearts of Hollywood (1926), Modern Mothers (1928), Dead Man's Curve (1928), A Woman of Affairs (1928) which starred Greta Garbo and John Gilbert.
Rabbitt, Eddie (Edward Thomas)
b. November 27, 1941 d. May 7, 1998
Singer, Songwriter. Born in Brooklyn, New York and raised in East Orange, New Jersey, he was one of the most innovative country artists of alltime. His recording career began in 1964 but he didn't establish himself until he moved to Nashville in 1968. His earliest success was as a songwriter. In 1970 Elvis Presley recorded his song "Kentucky Rain" and in 1974 Ronnie Milsap had his first number one country single with the Eddie Rabbitt composition "Pure Love". Cause of death: Lung cancer.
Stanton, Thomas
b. August 11, 1869 d. May 7, 1950
US Navy Peacetime Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. He served as a Chief Machinist's Mate in the United States Navy. His citation reads "For extraordinary heroism in the line of his profession during the fire on board the USS North Dakota, 8 September 1910."
Williams, Guy (Armand Catalano)
b. January 14, 1924 d. May 7, 1989
Actor. Born Armand Joseph Catalano in New York City, the son of Italian immigrants Attilio and Clare Catalano. He dropped out of the Peekskill Military Academy in pursuit of an acting career, supporting himself with jobs as a welder, accountant, aircraft-parts inspector, and Wanamaker's salesman. His first success was as a model, appearing in print and on billboards. He then adopted the name Guy Williams. In 1946, he signed with MGM Studios making his film debut in 1947's ‘ Cause of death: Brain aneurysm.
Cormack, Allan Macleod
b. February, 1924 d. May 7, 1998
Nobel prize winner in medicine 1979 for the development of computer assisted tomography, known popularly as CAT-Scans. The prize was shared with Geoffrey Hounsfield of Great Brittain, who developed his machine concurrent with Cormack's theoretical work which was a paper published in 1957 suggesting a reconstruction technique called the Radon transform. Born in Johannesburg, South Africa; educated at University of Cape Town and then lectured there; moved to the United States in 1957.
Lamon, Ward Hill
b. January 6, 1828 d. May 7, 1893
Abraham Lincoln's law partner, later becoming President Lincoln's bodyguard.
Miller, Edmund John 'Bing'
b. August 30, 1894 d. May 7, 1966
Major League Baseball Player. He began his career as an outfielder for the Washington Senators in 1921. The next season he played for the Philadelphia Athletics after an off season trade until 1926. He was traded to the St. Louis Browns and two years later traded back to Philadelphia where he remained until 1934. While with the A's, he was a member of three World Series teams in a row. In the 1929 Series, he played in all five games of the win getting 7 hits and driving in four runs.
McCalmont, Alfred Brunson
b. April 28, 1825 d. May 7, 1874
Civil War Union Brevet Brigadier General. Served during the Civil War first as Lieutenant Colonel of the 142nd Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, then as Colonel and commander of the 208th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry. In the July 1863 Battle of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, he assumed command of the regiment when its Colonel, Robert P. Cummins, was killed during the action of the First Day (July 1). He was brevetted Brigadier General, US Volunteers on March 13, 1865 for "gallant services".
Mack, Ray
b. August 31, 1916 d. May 7, 1969
Professional Baseball Player. Real name Raymond James Mlckovsky. He played Major League Baseball for nine seasons with the Cleveland Indians, Chicago Cubs, and very briefly with the New York Yankees. After attending Case Western Reserve University, where he was a Division III football star, he made his big league debut with Cleveland in 1938. He played his entire career at second base and was part of the revered double play combination with shortstop teammate, Lou Boudreau.
Fardy, Corp. John Peter
b. August 8, 1922 d. May 7, 1945
World War II Congressional Medal of Honor recipient. John Peter Fardy served as a Corporal and squad leader with Company C, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division, in action against enemy Japanese forces on Okinawa Shima in the Ryukyu Islands. It was on May 6, 1945 when Company C was advancing against a strongly fortified defended Japanese position that Corporal Fardy's squad was suddenly brought under heavy small-arms fire.
Keith, Miguel
b. June 2, 1951 d. May 7, 1970
Medal of honor recipient. Rank and organization: Lance Corporal, U.S. Marine Corps, Combined Action platoon 1-3-2, 111 Marine Amphibious Force. Place and date: Quang Ngai province, Republic of Vietnam, 8 May 1970. Entered service at: Omaha, Nebr. Born: 2 June 1951, San Antonio, Tex. Citation: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a machine gunner with Combined Action platoon 1-3-2. Cause of death: Killed in action.
Crowder, Enoch H.
b. April 11, 1859 d. May 7, 1932
United States Army General. A United States Army judge advocate general from 1911 to 1920, his comprehensive military plan for World War I included the Selective Service Act (the national draft, adopted in 1917). He served as United States Ambassador to Cuba from 1923 to 1927. Crowder State Park located in Edinburg, Missouri is named for him.
Berg, Nick (Nicholas)
b. April 2, 1978 d. May 7, 2004
Terrorism Victim. A small business owner who owned Prometheus Methods Tower Service, he was an independent contractor who thought his skills could be used to help the people of Iraq by rebuilding communication antennas. He traveled twice to Iraq (the first time was from December 21, 2003 to February 1, 2004. He returned to Iraq on March 14, 2004). On April 9th when he was reportedly stopped at a checkpoint and arrested. It was later revealed he had been kidnapped by Islamic militants. Cause of death: Beheaded by terrorists.
Wilson, John
b. December 29, 1838 d. May 7, 1864
Civil War Union Army Officer. He entered the Union Army with a commission of Captain in the 43rd New York Volunteer Infantry on Aug 3, 1861, having raised a company. He was subsequently engaged in the Battles of Lee's Mills, Warwick's Creek, Yorktown, Golden's Farm, Seven Days Battles, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Marye's Heights, Salem Church, Bank's Ford, 2nd Fredericksburg, Gettysburg, Rappahannock Station, Locust Grove, Mine Run and the Wilderness, and rose to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Died On This Date
May 6
Thoreau, Henry David
b. July 12, 1817 d. May 6, 1862
Author. A transcendental believer, David Thoreau lived his theory of civil disobedience. He was born in the city of Concord, Massachusetts. His brother, an ornithologist, had a great influence on his life. Thoreau developed an interest in nature, spending much of his youth exploring the region's ponds and woods. His formal education started at the Concord Academy and then went on at Harvard College. Upon graduation returned to Concord and taught school.
Dietrich, Marlene
b. December 27, 1901 d. May 6, 1992
Actress, Singer. She appeared in over 70 films from 1914 to movies made after her death in 1992. Her acting style was so famous that she was spoofed by Madeline Kahn in the comedic film "Blazing Saddles”. Born just outside Berlin, Germany, her father was a police lieutenant (other biographies state he was an Army officer), and she was noted for her "bedroom eyes" early, including an affair with a professor that resulted in his dismissal from school.
Baum, L. Frank
b. May 15, 1856 d. May 6, 1919
Author and Journalist. Lyman Frank Baum (who used "Frank" as his Christian name throughout his life) showed a remarkable inclination for journalism from an early age, publishing his own small newspaper and stamp-collecting magazine while still in his teens. He would run several small publications through his adult life, taking jobs with newspapers like the "Aberdeen Saturday Pioneer" and "Chicago Evening Post" when his own ventures failed to bear fruit.
Woolley, Monty
b. August 17, 1888 d. May 6, 1963
Actor. He is best remembered for his role of a bombastic, overbearing ‘Sheridan Whiteside’ in the movie "The Man Who Came to Dinner" (1941). In this movie, his line "My, how time flies when you're having fun" became a classic understatement. Born in New York City, he became a professor at Yale University and taught drama to the students, including Thornton Wilder and Cole Porter.
Homer, Louise Dilworth Beatty
b. April 30, 1871 d. May 6, 1947
Opera Singer. American dramatic contralto who partnered Enrico Caruso, Giovanni Martinelli and Beniamino Gigli at the Metropolitan Opera. She debuted on December 22, 1900 as ‘Amneris’ in Guiseppi Verdi's “Aida”, and performed until November 28, 1929 when she took her final bow as ‘Azucena’ in Verdi's “Il Trovatore” and on RCA Victor Red Seal Records. She appeared in the American premieres of Giacomo Puccini's “Madame Butterfly” as ‘Suzuki’ and Englebert Humperdinck's “Konigskinder” Cause of death: heart failure.
Howe, James Donnie
b. December 17, 1948 d. May 6, 1970
Viet Nam Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. Served in the Viet Nam War in the United States Marine Corps as a Lance Corporal in Company I, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division. He was awarded the CMOH for his bravery on May 6, 1970. His citation reads "For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a rifleman with Company I, during operations against enemy forces.
Weems, Ted
b. September 26, 1901 d. May 6, 1963
Jazz Bandleader. With his "Ted Weems Orchestra", he had his first hit in 1925 with the song "Piccolo Pete". Popular in the 1930s, they appeared on many radio shows, and was the first band to include future singing star Perry Como. Other hits include "I Wonder Who's Kissing Her Now" (1939 with Perry Como) and "Heartaches" (1947 with Elmo Tanner).
McGovern Jr., James B.
b. 1922 d. May 6, 1954World War II Fighter Pilot and CIA Operative. The swashbuckling McGovern was one of the first two Americans to die in combat with the North Vietnamese, seven years before the United States' official entry in the Vietnam War. He was known as "Earthquake McGoon" after a character in the "Li'l Abner" comic strip because of his imposing stature. During World War II McGovern was a fighter pilot in the 14th Air Force's "Tiger Shark" squadron, and was credited with shooting down four Japanese Zero.
Parks, Roberta Kathleen
b. 1951 d. May 6, 1974
Murder Victim. She was abducted from the campus of Oregon State University and murdered by serial killer Ted Bundy. Her skull was later found on Taylor Mountain. Bundy confessed to her murder shortly before his execution.
Rogers, Edward Samuel
b. June 21, 1900 d. May 6, 1939
Broadcaster, inventor, pioneer and visionary. Always thinking ahead, "Ted" Rogers became interested in radio back in 1911, when it was still a brand new concept. He created his own 1/2KW spark transmitter, one of the first licensed amateur sets in Canada, and used that to experament with transmission signals. By 1920 his little radio station was reaching both the Maritimes and the Pacific Coast. In 1921 he entered a competition sponsored by the American Radio Relay League.
Nugent, Christopher
b. 1838 d. May 6, 1898
Civil War Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. He served as a Orderly Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps. His citation reads "Served on board the USS Fort Henry, Crystal River, Fla., 15 June 1863. Reconnoitering on the Crystal River on this date and in charge of a boat from the Fort Henry, Orderly Sgt. Nugent ordered an assault upon a rebel breastwork fortification. In this assault, the orderly sergeant and his comrades drove a guard of 11 rebels into the swamp, capturing their arms.
Mansfield, John
b. August, 1822 d. May 6, 1896
Civil War Union Brevet Brigadier General. Served in the Civil War first as Lieutenant Colonel of the 2nd Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, then as Colonel and commander of the 12th Veterans Reserve Corps. He was brevetted Brigadier General, US Volunteers on March 13, 1865 for "gallant and meritorious services during the war". He served as California's Lieutenant Governor from 1880 to 1883.
Coates, Benjamin Franklin
b. June 23, 1827 d. May 6, 1899
Civil War Union Brevet Brigadier General. He served during the Civil War as Colonel and commander of the 91st Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was brevetted Brigadier General, US Volunteers on March 13, 1865 for "efficient and meritorious services".
Van Dyke, Truman
b. 1898 d. May 6, 1984
Actor. Appeared in Silent Films.
Hooper, Joe Ronnie
b. August 8, 1938 d. May 6, 1979
Viet Nam Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. He served as a Staff Sergeant, United States Army, Company D, 2d Battalion (Airborne), 501st Infantry, 101st Airborne Division. He was awarded his medal for service near Hue, Republic of Vietnam, on February 21, 1968, during the Vietnam War. His citation reads-For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. S
Thoreau, Henry David
b. July 12, 1817 d. May 6, 1862
Author. A transcendental believer, David Thoreau lived his theory of civil disobedience. He was born in the city of Concord, Massachusetts. His brother, an ornithologist, had a great influence on his life. Thoreau developed an interest in nature, spending much of his youth exploring the region's ponds and woods. His formal education started at the Concord Academy and then went on at Harvard College. Upon graduation returned to Concord and taught school.
Dietrich, Marlene
b. December 27, 1901 d. May 6, 1992
Actress, Singer. She appeared in over 70 films from 1914 to movies made after her death in 1992. Her acting style was so famous that she was spoofed by Madeline Kahn in the comedic film "Blazing Saddles”. Born just outside Berlin, Germany, her father was a police lieutenant (other biographies state he was an Army officer), and she was noted for her "bedroom eyes" early, including an affair with a professor that resulted in his dismissal from school.
Baum, L. Frank
b. May 15, 1856 d. May 6, 1919
Author and Journalist. Lyman Frank Baum (who used "Frank" as his Christian name throughout his life) showed a remarkable inclination for journalism from an early age, publishing his own small newspaper and stamp-collecting magazine while still in his teens. He would run several small publications through his adult life, taking jobs with newspapers like the "Aberdeen Saturday Pioneer" and "Chicago Evening Post" when his own ventures failed to bear fruit.
Woolley, Monty
b. August 17, 1888 d. May 6, 1963
Actor. He is best remembered for his role of a bombastic, overbearing ‘Sheridan Whiteside’ in the movie "The Man Who Came to Dinner" (1941). In this movie, his line "My, how time flies when you're having fun" became a classic understatement. Born in New York City, he became a professor at Yale University and taught drama to the students, including Thornton Wilder and Cole Porter.
Homer, Louise Dilworth Beatty
b. April 30, 1871 d. May 6, 1947
Opera Singer. American dramatic contralto who partnered Enrico Caruso, Giovanni Martinelli and Beniamino Gigli at the Metropolitan Opera. She debuted on December 22, 1900 as ‘Amneris’ in Guiseppi Verdi's “Aida”, and performed until November 28, 1929 when she took her final bow as ‘Azucena’ in Verdi's “Il Trovatore” and on RCA Victor Red Seal Records. She appeared in the American premieres of Giacomo Puccini's “Madame Butterfly” as ‘Suzuki’ and Englebert Humperdinck's “Konigskinder” Cause of death: heart failure.
Howe, James Donnie
b. December 17, 1948 d. May 6, 1970
Viet Nam Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. Served in the Viet Nam War in the United States Marine Corps as a Lance Corporal in Company I, 3rd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division. He was awarded the CMOH for his bravery on May 6, 1970. His citation reads "For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty while serving as a rifleman with Company I, during operations against enemy forces.
Weems, Ted
b. September 26, 1901 d. May 6, 1963
Jazz Bandleader. With his "Ted Weems Orchestra", he had his first hit in 1925 with the song "Piccolo Pete". Popular in the 1930s, they appeared on many radio shows, and was the first band to include future singing star Perry Como. Other hits include "I Wonder Who's Kissing Her Now" (1939 with Perry Como) and "Heartaches" (1947 with Elmo Tanner).
McGovern Jr., James B.
b. 1922 d. May 6, 1954World War II Fighter Pilot and CIA Operative. The swashbuckling McGovern was one of the first two Americans to die in combat with the North Vietnamese, seven years before the United States' official entry in the Vietnam War. He was known as "Earthquake McGoon" after a character in the "Li'l Abner" comic strip because of his imposing stature. During World War II McGovern was a fighter pilot in the 14th Air Force's "Tiger Shark" squadron, and was credited with shooting down four Japanese Zero.
Parks, Roberta Kathleen
b. 1951 d. May 6, 1974
Murder Victim. She was abducted from the campus of Oregon State University and murdered by serial killer Ted Bundy. Her skull was later found on Taylor Mountain. Bundy confessed to her murder shortly before his execution.
Rogers, Edward Samuel
b. June 21, 1900 d. May 6, 1939
Broadcaster, inventor, pioneer and visionary. Always thinking ahead, "Ted" Rogers became interested in radio back in 1911, when it was still a brand new concept. He created his own 1/2KW spark transmitter, one of the first licensed amateur sets in Canada, and used that to experament with transmission signals. By 1920 his little radio station was reaching both the Maritimes and the Pacific Coast. In 1921 he entered a competition sponsored by the American Radio Relay League.
Nugent, Christopher
b. 1838 d. May 6, 1898
Civil War Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. He served as a Orderly Sergeant in the United States Marine Corps. His citation reads "Served on board the USS Fort Henry, Crystal River, Fla., 15 June 1863. Reconnoitering on the Crystal River on this date and in charge of a boat from the Fort Henry, Orderly Sgt. Nugent ordered an assault upon a rebel breastwork fortification. In this assault, the orderly sergeant and his comrades drove a guard of 11 rebels into the swamp, capturing their arms.
Mansfield, John
b. August, 1822 d. May 6, 1896
Civil War Union Brevet Brigadier General. Served in the Civil War first as Lieutenant Colonel of the 2nd Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry, then as Colonel and commander of the 12th Veterans Reserve Corps. He was brevetted Brigadier General, US Volunteers on March 13, 1865 for "gallant and meritorious services during the war". He served as California's Lieutenant Governor from 1880 to 1883.
Coates, Benjamin Franklin
b. June 23, 1827 d. May 6, 1899
Civil War Union Brevet Brigadier General. He served during the Civil War as Colonel and commander of the 91st Ohio Volunteer Infantry. He was brevetted Brigadier General, US Volunteers on March 13, 1865 for "efficient and meritorious services".
Van Dyke, Truman
b. 1898 d. May 6, 1984
Actor. Appeared in Silent Films.
Hooper, Joe Ronnie
b. August 8, 1938 d. May 6, 1979
Viet Nam Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. He served as a Staff Sergeant, United States Army, Company D, 2d Battalion (Airborne), 501st Infantry, 101st Airborne Division. He was awarded his medal for service near Hue, Republic of Vietnam, on February 21, 1968, during the Vietnam War. His citation reads-For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. S
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Died On This Date
May 5
Bonaparte, Napoleon
b. August 15, 1769 d. May 5, 1821
Despite an indifferent career at military school, created an enormous Empire for France stretching from Spain to Russia: crowned as Napoleon I in 1804. His monument is of porphyry from Finland: inside it the body of the Emperor is contained in a series of six coffins of tin, mahogany, lead (2), ebony, and a last one of oak. He is buried in uniform with his hat across his legs.
Tishomingo, Chief
b. 1734 d. May 5, 1838
Chickasaw War Chief. Probably born in what is now Lee County, Mississippi. As a young man he served with General Anthony Wayne against the Shawnee in the Old Northwest and received a silver medallion from President Washington for his service. During the War of 1812, he served under Andrew Jackson. It is known that he received two tracts of land under the Pontotoc Treaty of 1832. After his service, he took several trips to Philadelphia and Washington DC before retiring to raise livestock.
Chapman, Alford B.
b. August 1, 1835 d. May 5, 1864
Civil War Union Army Officer. He served during the Civil War as Colonel and commander of the 57th New York Volunteer Infantry, which he led at the Battle of Gettysburg. He was killed in action in the May 1864 Battle of the Wilderness.
Blaik, Earl 'Red'
b. February 15, 1897 d. May 5, 1989
College Football Coach. He graduated from the United States Militiary Academy in 1920, but left the Army two years later. He worked as an assistant football coach for the University of Wisconsin and for the USMA before becoming head coach of Dartmouth's football team in 1934. In seven seasons there he led Dartmouth to a 45-15-4 record, and an undefeated 1937 season. He took over the USMA football team in 1941, and led it until 1958, compiling a stellar record in the process.
Karger, Maxwell
b. 1879 d. May 5, 1922
Motion Picture producer/director of the 1910s and 20s. Personal manager to Rudolph Valentino.
Kicking Bird (Black Eagle)
b. 1835 d. May 5, 1875
Indian warrior. Failed peace maker. His name was Tene-angop'te which means "The Kicking Bird". He was, also, known as Watohkonk - "Black Eagle". His grandfather was a Crow captive who had been incorporated in the Kiowa tribe. Kicking Bird's avocation was peace with the Whites since he saw the hopelessness warfare would bring. Kicking Bird signed the Treaty of Medicine Lodge in 1867. His friendly ways, however, did bring about much hope: the government did not keep a promise to free Kiowa chief.
Sidney, George
b. October 4, 1916 d. May 5, 2002
Motion Picture Director. He was born in a show business family; his father was a Broadway producer and his mother an actress on stage. He was a child actor in vaudeville and started his film career in MGM in early 1930's as apprentice in several jobs. He made his debut in "Free and Easy" and became the musical's director. He was president of Directors Guild of America. He founded and financed Hanna-Barbera productions in 1944. Among his films are "Bathing Beauty" (1944), "Anchors Aweigh" (1945).
Hutchinson, Tom
b. June 15, 1941 d. May 5, 2007
Professional Football Player. He was a wide receiver for four seasons (1963 to 1966) in the National Football League, with the Cleveland Browns and Atlanta Falcons. He was a member of the 1964 NFL Champion Browns team. His best year was in 1963 when he had 9 receptions for 244 yards. During his college years, Hutchinson was a standout player for the University of Kentucky and was inducted into their Athletics Hall of Hame in 2005.
Robbins, Irv (Irvine)
b. December 6, 1917 d. May 5, 2008
Entrepreneur. With Burt Baskin he co-founded the Baskin-Robbins ice cream chain in 1945. Famed for its "31 flavors" concept, Baskin-Robbins now has over 5500 outlets around the world.
Marsh, Oliver
b. January 30, 1893 d. May 5, 1941
Hollywood cinematographer of many films, both in the silent and sound eras. Brother of actresses Mae, Margeurite, and Mildred Marsh.
Harte, Francis Bret
b. August 25, 1837 d. May 5, 1902
Author. He is best remembered for his accounts of pioneering life in California. Born in Albany, New York, he moved to California at the age of 18. After many different jobs, he started writing poeetry and prose. Eventually he became editor of The Overland Monthly,a new literary magazine, in which he finally struck lucky with His story, "The Luck of Roaring Camp," making him famous nationwide. For a year, Harte served as professor at the University of California.
Adams, Louisa Catherine
b. February 12, 1775 d. May 5, 1852
Presidential First Lady. The wife of 6th United States President John Quincy Adams, she was born in London, England to an American father. She was education in a French convent school, met John Quincy Adams while he was a diplomat serving in England and were married three years later at a ceremony in London.
Bonaparte, Napoleon
b. August 15, 1769 d. May 5, 1821
Despite an indifferent career at military school, created an enormous Empire for France stretching from Spain to Russia: crowned as Napoleon I in 1804. His monument is of porphyry from Finland: inside it the body of the Emperor is contained in a series of six coffins of tin, mahogany, lead (2), ebony, and a last one of oak. He is buried in uniform with his hat across his legs.
Tishomingo, Chief
b. 1734 d. May 5, 1838
Chickasaw War Chief. Probably born in what is now Lee County, Mississippi. As a young man he served with General Anthony Wayne against the Shawnee in the Old Northwest and received a silver medallion from President Washington for his service. During the War of 1812, he served under Andrew Jackson. It is known that he received two tracts of land under the Pontotoc Treaty of 1832. After his service, he took several trips to Philadelphia and Washington DC before retiring to raise livestock.
Chapman, Alford B.
b. August 1, 1835 d. May 5, 1864
Civil War Union Army Officer. He served during the Civil War as Colonel and commander of the 57th New York Volunteer Infantry, which he led at the Battle of Gettysburg. He was killed in action in the May 1864 Battle of the Wilderness.
Blaik, Earl 'Red'
b. February 15, 1897 d. May 5, 1989
College Football Coach. He graduated from the United States Militiary Academy in 1920, but left the Army two years later. He worked as an assistant football coach for the University of Wisconsin and for the USMA before becoming head coach of Dartmouth's football team in 1934. In seven seasons there he led Dartmouth to a 45-15-4 record, and an undefeated 1937 season. He took over the USMA football team in 1941, and led it until 1958, compiling a stellar record in the process.
Karger, Maxwell
b. 1879 d. May 5, 1922
Motion Picture producer/director of the 1910s and 20s. Personal manager to Rudolph Valentino.
Kicking Bird (Black Eagle)
b. 1835 d. May 5, 1875
Indian warrior. Failed peace maker. His name was Tene-angop'te which means "The Kicking Bird". He was, also, known as Watohkonk - "Black Eagle". His grandfather was a Crow captive who had been incorporated in the Kiowa tribe. Kicking Bird's avocation was peace with the Whites since he saw the hopelessness warfare would bring. Kicking Bird signed the Treaty of Medicine Lodge in 1867. His friendly ways, however, did bring about much hope: the government did not keep a promise to free Kiowa chief.
Sidney, George
b. October 4, 1916 d. May 5, 2002
Motion Picture Director. He was born in a show business family; his father was a Broadway producer and his mother an actress on stage. He was a child actor in vaudeville and started his film career in MGM in early 1930's as apprentice in several jobs. He made his debut in "Free and Easy" and became the musical's director. He was president of Directors Guild of America. He founded and financed Hanna-Barbera productions in 1944. Among his films are "Bathing Beauty" (1944), "Anchors Aweigh" (1945).
Hutchinson, Tom
b. June 15, 1941 d. May 5, 2007
Professional Football Player. He was a wide receiver for four seasons (1963 to 1966) in the National Football League, with the Cleveland Browns and Atlanta Falcons. He was a member of the 1964 NFL Champion Browns team. His best year was in 1963 when he had 9 receptions for 244 yards. During his college years, Hutchinson was a standout player for the University of Kentucky and was inducted into their Athletics Hall of Hame in 2005.
Robbins, Irv (Irvine)
b. December 6, 1917 d. May 5, 2008
Entrepreneur. With Burt Baskin he co-founded the Baskin-Robbins ice cream chain in 1945. Famed for its "31 flavors" concept, Baskin-Robbins now has over 5500 outlets around the world.
Marsh, Oliver
b. January 30, 1893 d. May 5, 1941
Hollywood cinematographer of many films, both in the silent and sound eras. Brother of actresses Mae, Margeurite, and Mildred Marsh.
Harte, Francis Bret
b. August 25, 1837 d. May 5, 1902
Author. He is best remembered for his accounts of pioneering life in California. Born in Albany, New York, he moved to California at the age of 18. After many different jobs, he started writing poeetry and prose. Eventually he became editor of The Overland Monthly,a new literary magazine, in which he finally struck lucky with His story, "The Luck of Roaring Camp," making him famous nationwide. For a year, Harte served as professor at the University of California.
Adams, Louisa Catherine
b. February 12, 1775 d. May 5, 1852
Presidential First Lady. The wife of 6th United States President John Quincy Adams, she was born in London, England to an American father. She was education in a French convent school, met John Quincy Adams while he was a diplomat serving in England and were married three years later at a ceremony in London.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Died On This Date
May 4
Howard (Horwitz), Moe (Moses Harry)
b. June 19, 1897 d. May 4, 1975
Actor. From a very early age he was interested in acting, a talent that was helped along by his voracious memory and capacity for memorizing just about anything, including all of the many books he read and all of the plays he saw when he was skipping school. His parents, however, were displeased by his constant truancy and his desire to have a career in show business, so he enrolled at the Baron DeHirsch Trade School in New York, where he took a class in electric shop. Cause of death: Lung cancer
McDowell, Irvin
b. October 15, 1818 d. May 4, 1885
Civil War Union Major General. Class of West Point 1838 (23 out of 45) Artillery Officer. Was Gen. Wools A.D.C. during Mexican war and was Brevet Captain for bravery. Later served on the Western Frontier until 1856 when he was sent to the Army HQ in Washington with rank of Major. Named Brig. Gen USA May 14th 1861 Give comand of the Union troops south of the Potomac. Was defeated at the battle of 1st Bull Run he was appointed Comander of McDowell's Division.
Hettinger, Karl
b. October 29, 1934 d. May 4, 1994
Former Los Angeles Policeman and Kidnap victim. Karl Hettinger was the survivor of the attack made famous in Joseph Wambaugh's book "The Onion Field." He was taken at gunpoint on the night of March 9, 1963 with his partner, Officer Ian Campbell, by Gregory Ulas Powell and Jimmy Lee Smith in Hollywood. In a 1985 interview, Hettinger told a Los Angeles Times writer, "I didn't want to give up my weapon, but my partner had a gun in his back."
Merritt, Jerry Lee
b. 1934 d. May 4, 2001
Rock Musician. A member and lead guitarist for the musical group, 'Gene Vincent's Legendary Blue Caps.' The band formed in Norfolk, Virginia, and recorded there first album in Nashville, Tennessee, in May 1956. The band also included, Gene Vincent, John Meeks, Tommy Facenda, Cliff Gallup, 'B-Bop' Harrell, 'Jumpin' Jack Neal, Paul Peek, Willie Williams, and Andrew 'Duck' McDonald. The band recorded on several record labels including Magnum Force and released several songs.
McGuffey, William Holmes
b. September 23, 1800 d. May 4, 1873
Author, Educator. With his Brother Alexander, he wrote the “McGuffey Readers”, while a professor at Miami (Ohio) University from 1823-1836. He served as President of Cincinnati College from 1836- 1839, and President of Ohio University from 1839 to 1843. From 1843 to 1845 he served as President of Woodward College in Cincinnati, Ohio. He became Professor of Philosophy at the University of Virginia in 1845 and served in that capacity until his death in 1873.
Kinser, Elbert Luther
b. October 21, 1922 d. May 4, 1945
World War II Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. On May 4, 1945, Okinawa, Sergeant Kinser, was acting leader of a rifle platoon, serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division. While moving up a strategic ridge holding newly won positions, Sergeant Kinser engaged the enemy in a fierce hand grenade battle. Quick to act when a Japanese grenade landed in the immediate vicinity, Sergeant Kinser threw himself on the deadly missile, absorbing the full charge
Lyman, Joel H.
b. May 11, 1845 d. May 4, 1922
Civil War Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. He served as a First Lieutenant in the Union Army. He was awarded the Medal of Honor as a Quartermaster Sergeant in Company B, 9th New York Cavalry for action on September 19, 1864 at Winchester, Virginia. His citation reads "In an attempt to capture a Confederate flag, he captured one of the enemy's officers and bought him within the lines."
Foy, Richard
b. 1905 d. May 4, 1947
Actor, Entertainer. Son of actor Eddie Foy Sr. and one of "The Seven Little Foys" vaudeville act.
Palmer, Potter
b. May 20, 1826 d. May 4, 1902
Architect. A prominent Chicago social leader, he was the primary developer of State Street, and built the Palmer House Hotel.
Ely, John
b. January 26, 1816 d. May 4, 1869
Civil War Union Brevet Major General. He served in the Civil War first as Colonel and commander of the 23rd Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, then as Colonel and commander of the 21st Veterans Reserve Corps. For a time near the end of the war he was the Assistant Provost Marshal for Trenton, New Jersey. On April 15, 1865 he was brevetted Brigadier General, US Volunteers for "gallant services in the field", and Major General, US Volunteers for "faithful and gallant conduct throughout the war".
Earles, Harry 'Harry Doll'
b. April 3, 1902 d. May 4, 1985Actor. He was a member of the famous Doll Family of midgets. Kurt and his three sisters, Frieda, Hilda, and Elly all appeared in the classic 1939 motion picture, "Wizard of Oz." Harry appeared in the role of a Lollipop Guild member. Harry and Hilda also appeared in the cult-classic horror film "Freaks." After touring with the Ringling Brothers Circus, the Doll Family retired to Florida. Elly "Tiny Doll" Schneider, was the last surviving member of the Doll Family, when she died on September 6.
Douglas, Marjorie
b. April 7, 1890 d. May 4, 1998
Environmentalist. She was nicknamed the "Mother of the Everglades" for the extensive work she did during her lifetime to preserve the Everglades. She graduated from Wellesley College and was married briefly. She moved to Miami in 1915 and worked for her father at the Miami Herald where she became a society reporter and editorial columnist. Through her writing, she became a champion of various causes including equal rights and conservation.
Howard (Horwitz), Moe (Moses Harry)
b. June 19, 1897 d. May 4, 1975
Actor. From a very early age he was interested in acting, a talent that was helped along by his voracious memory and capacity for memorizing just about anything, including all of the many books he read and all of the plays he saw when he was skipping school. His parents, however, were displeased by his constant truancy and his desire to have a career in show business, so he enrolled at the Baron DeHirsch Trade School in New York, where he took a class in electric shop. Cause of death: Lung cancer
McDowell, Irvin
b. October 15, 1818 d. May 4, 1885
Civil War Union Major General. Class of West Point 1838 (23 out of 45) Artillery Officer. Was Gen. Wools A.D.C. during Mexican war and was Brevet Captain for bravery. Later served on the Western Frontier until 1856 when he was sent to the Army HQ in Washington with rank of Major. Named Brig. Gen USA May 14th 1861 Give comand of the Union troops south of the Potomac. Was defeated at the battle of 1st Bull Run he was appointed Comander of McDowell's Division.
Hettinger, Karl
b. October 29, 1934 d. May 4, 1994
Former Los Angeles Policeman and Kidnap victim. Karl Hettinger was the survivor of the attack made famous in Joseph Wambaugh's book "The Onion Field." He was taken at gunpoint on the night of March 9, 1963 with his partner, Officer Ian Campbell, by Gregory Ulas Powell and Jimmy Lee Smith in Hollywood. In a 1985 interview, Hettinger told a Los Angeles Times writer, "I didn't want to give up my weapon, but my partner had a gun in his back."
Merritt, Jerry Lee
b. 1934 d. May 4, 2001
Rock Musician. A member and lead guitarist for the musical group, 'Gene Vincent's Legendary Blue Caps.' The band formed in Norfolk, Virginia, and recorded there first album in Nashville, Tennessee, in May 1956. The band also included, Gene Vincent, John Meeks, Tommy Facenda, Cliff Gallup, 'B-Bop' Harrell, 'Jumpin' Jack Neal, Paul Peek, Willie Williams, and Andrew 'Duck' McDonald. The band recorded on several record labels including Magnum Force and released several songs.
McGuffey, William Holmes
b. September 23, 1800 d. May 4, 1873
Author, Educator. With his Brother Alexander, he wrote the “McGuffey Readers”, while a professor at Miami (Ohio) University from 1823-1836. He served as President of Cincinnati College from 1836- 1839, and President of Ohio University from 1839 to 1843. From 1843 to 1845 he served as President of Woodward College in Cincinnati, Ohio. He became Professor of Philosophy at the University of Virginia in 1845 and served in that capacity until his death in 1873.
Kinser, Elbert Luther
b. October 21, 1922 d. May 4, 1945
World War II Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. On May 4, 1945, Okinawa, Sergeant Kinser, was acting leader of a rifle platoon, serving with Company I, 3d Battalion, 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division. While moving up a strategic ridge holding newly won positions, Sergeant Kinser engaged the enemy in a fierce hand grenade battle. Quick to act when a Japanese grenade landed in the immediate vicinity, Sergeant Kinser threw himself on the deadly missile, absorbing the full charge
Lyman, Joel H.
b. May 11, 1845 d. May 4, 1922
Civil War Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. He served as a First Lieutenant in the Union Army. He was awarded the Medal of Honor as a Quartermaster Sergeant in Company B, 9th New York Cavalry for action on September 19, 1864 at Winchester, Virginia. His citation reads "In an attempt to capture a Confederate flag, he captured one of the enemy's officers and bought him within the lines."
Foy, Richard
b. 1905 d. May 4, 1947
Actor, Entertainer. Son of actor Eddie Foy Sr. and one of "The Seven Little Foys" vaudeville act.
Palmer, Potter
b. May 20, 1826 d. May 4, 1902
Architect. A prominent Chicago social leader, he was the primary developer of State Street, and built the Palmer House Hotel.
Ely, John
b. January 26, 1816 d. May 4, 1869
Civil War Union Brevet Major General. He served in the Civil War first as Colonel and commander of the 23rd Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, then as Colonel and commander of the 21st Veterans Reserve Corps. For a time near the end of the war he was the Assistant Provost Marshal for Trenton, New Jersey. On April 15, 1865 he was brevetted Brigadier General, US Volunteers for "gallant services in the field", and Major General, US Volunteers for "faithful and gallant conduct throughout the war".
Earles, Harry 'Harry Doll'
b. April 3, 1902 d. May 4, 1985Actor. He was a member of the famous Doll Family of midgets. Kurt and his three sisters, Frieda, Hilda, and Elly all appeared in the classic 1939 motion picture, "Wizard of Oz." Harry appeared in the role of a Lollipop Guild member. Harry and Hilda also appeared in the cult-classic horror film "Freaks." After touring with the Ringling Brothers Circus, the Doll Family retired to Florida. Elly "Tiny Doll" Schneider, was the last surviving member of the Doll Family, when she died on September 6.
Douglas, Marjorie
b. April 7, 1890 d. May 4, 1998
Environmentalist. She was nicknamed the "Mother of the Everglades" for the extensive work she did during her lifetime to preserve the Everglades. She graduated from Wellesley College and was married briefly. She moved to Miami in 1915 and worked for her father at the Miami Herald where she became a society reporter and editorial columnist. Through her writing, she became a champion of various causes including equal rights and conservation.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Died On This Date
May 3
Schirra Jr., Walter M. 'Wally'
b. March 12, 1923 d. May 3, 2007
One of the original Mercury 7 astronauts chosen for the Project Mercury, America's first effort to put men in space. He was the only man to fly in America's first three space programs: Mercury, Gemini and Apollo and has logged a total of 295 hours and 15 minutes in space. The family name Schirra is originally from the Valle Onsernone, in Canton Ticino, the Italian part of Switzerland.
Berry, Hiram Gregory
b. August 27, 1824 d. May 3, 1863
Civil War Union Major General. Killed in Action at the Battle of Chancellorsville, Virginia. Entered war as Colonel of the 4th Maine Volunteer Infantry, and was with the regiment at the Battle of First Bull Run, Virginia. Promoted to Brigadier General, US Volunteers and commanded a brigade in the Army of the Potomac during the Peninsular Campaign and the Battle of Fredericksburg. Promoted to Major General, US Volunteers on November 29, 1862.
Nevers, Ernie
b. July 11, 1903 d. May 3, 1976
He played pro football, basketball and baseball. In a 1929 NFL game, he scored 40 points for the Chicago Cardinals.
Caniff, Milton
b. February 28, 1907 d. May 3, 1988
Cartoonist, he is best remembered as the creator and long-time producer of the comic strips "Steve Canyon" and "Terry and the Pirates." He was one of the first cartoonists to bring realism, suspense and sensuality into the comic strips, combining all with a grace and sensitivity that brought renewed public interest to the medium. Born Milton Arthur Paul Caniff in Hillsboro, Ohio, he was an Eagle Scout and a recipient of the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award from the Boy Scouts of America.
Donaldson, Francis Adams
b. June 7, 1840 d. May 3, 1928
Civil War Union Army Officer. Served as a Lieutenant in the 71st Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, then as a Captain in the 118th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry ("The Corn Exchange Regiment"). His correspondence during the war to his family were published as the book "Inside the Army of the Potomac: the Wartime Letters of Captain Francis
Adam Donaldson".
Weston, Jack
b. August 21, 1924 d. May 3, 1996
Popular American motion picture and television actor of the 1940s thru 1980s. Appeared in many top movies and classic TV series. Cause of death:
Lymphoma.
Montana (Blevins), Patsy (Rubye Rebecca)
b. October 30, 1908 d. May 3, 1996
First female country recording artist to sell a million records with "I Wanna Be A Cowboy's Sweetheart."
Barrett, Carlton William
b. November 24, 1919 d. May 3, 1986
World War II Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. He entered the U.S. Army at Albany, New York and served as a Private in the 18th Infantry, 1st Infantry Division. In the vicinity of St. Laurent-sur-Mer, France, on the morning of D-Day, June 6, 1944, he and his unit, landing in the face of extremely heavy enemy fire and was forced to wade ashore through neck-deep water. Disregarding personal danger, he returned to the surf again and again to assist his floundering comrades from drowning.
Murphy, George Lloyd
b. July 4, 1902 d. May 3, 1992
Actor and dancer in films from the 1930s to the 1950s. US Senator from California 1965 - 1971. Defeated in reelection bid (1970).
Key, Ted
b. August 25, 1912 d. May 3, 2008
Cartoonist, Writer. He is best known for creating the character "Hazel", which was regularly featured in the Saturday Evening Post and became a popular television series during the 1960s starring Shirley Booth. Born in Fresno, he attended the University of California at Berkeley and later began his career writing for such publications as "Cosmopolitan", "Ladies' Home Journal" and "Better Homes and Gardens" as well as working in radio.
Jorgensen, Christine (George William Jorgensen, Jr.)
b. May 30, 1926 d. May 3, 1989
Medical Pioneer, Social Reform Figure. She was a transsexual who made history as the first American man to be surgically changed to a woman. Born George William Jorgensen, Jr., he graduated from Christopher Columbus High School in Bronx, New York in May 1945, and shortly afterwards, was drafted into the United States Army for two years service. After leaving the Army, he began researching information on sexual imbalances, and soon discovered that he could have a sex change operation in.
Andrews, Frank Maxwell
b. February 3, 1884 d. May 3, 1943
United States Army General. He was commander of all United States Forces in Europe during the initial US involvement in that theatre during World War II. Graduating from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1906, he initially served in the cavalry in the Philippines. From 1907 to 1917 he served at various forts, mostly in the northwest, until transferring to the Signal Corp.
Schirra Jr., Walter M. 'Wally'
b. March 12, 1923 d. May 3, 2007
One of the original Mercury 7 astronauts chosen for the Project Mercury, America's first effort to put men in space. He was the only man to fly in America's first three space programs: Mercury, Gemini and Apollo and has logged a total of 295 hours and 15 minutes in space. The family name Schirra is originally from the Valle Onsernone, in Canton Ticino, the Italian part of Switzerland.
Berry, Hiram Gregory
b. August 27, 1824 d. May 3, 1863
Civil War Union Major General. Killed in Action at the Battle of Chancellorsville, Virginia. Entered war as Colonel of the 4th Maine Volunteer Infantry, and was with the regiment at the Battle of First Bull Run, Virginia. Promoted to Brigadier General, US Volunteers and commanded a brigade in the Army of the Potomac during the Peninsular Campaign and the Battle of Fredericksburg. Promoted to Major General, US Volunteers on November 29, 1862.
Nevers, Ernie
b. July 11, 1903 d. May 3, 1976
He played pro football, basketball and baseball. In a 1929 NFL game, he scored 40 points for the Chicago Cardinals.
Caniff, Milton
b. February 28, 1907 d. May 3, 1988
Cartoonist, he is best remembered as the creator and long-time producer of the comic strips "Steve Canyon" and "Terry and the Pirates." He was one of the first cartoonists to bring realism, suspense and sensuality into the comic strips, combining all with a grace and sensitivity that brought renewed public interest to the medium. Born Milton Arthur Paul Caniff in Hillsboro, Ohio, he was an Eagle Scout and a recipient of the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award from the Boy Scouts of America.
Donaldson, Francis Adams
b. June 7, 1840 d. May 3, 1928
Civil War Union Army Officer. Served as a Lieutenant in the 71st Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, then as a Captain in the 118th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry ("The Corn Exchange Regiment"). His correspondence during the war to his family were published as the book "Inside the Army of the Potomac: the Wartime Letters of Captain Francis
Adam Donaldson".
Weston, Jack
b. August 21, 1924 d. May 3, 1996
Popular American motion picture and television actor of the 1940s thru 1980s. Appeared in many top movies and classic TV series. Cause of death:
Lymphoma.
Montana (Blevins), Patsy (Rubye Rebecca)
b. October 30, 1908 d. May 3, 1996
First female country recording artist to sell a million records with "I Wanna Be A Cowboy's Sweetheart."
Barrett, Carlton William
b. November 24, 1919 d. May 3, 1986
World War II Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. He entered the U.S. Army at Albany, New York and served as a Private in the 18th Infantry, 1st Infantry Division. In the vicinity of St. Laurent-sur-Mer, France, on the morning of D-Day, June 6, 1944, he and his unit, landing in the face of extremely heavy enemy fire and was forced to wade ashore through neck-deep water. Disregarding personal danger, he returned to the surf again and again to assist his floundering comrades from drowning.
Murphy, George Lloyd
b. July 4, 1902 d. May 3, 1992
Actor and dancer in films from the 1930s to the 1950s. US Senator from California 1965 - 1971. Defeated in reelection bid (1970).
Key, Ted
b. August 25, 1912 d. May 3, 2008
Cartoonist, Writer. He is best known for creating the character "Hazel", which was regularly featured in the Saturday Evening Post and became a popular television series during the 1960s starring Shirley Booth. Born in Fresno, he attended the University of California at Berkeley and later began his career writing for such publications as "Cosmopolitan", "Ladies' Home Journal" and "Better Homes and Gardens" as well as working in radio.
Jorgensen, Christine (George William Jorgensen, Jr.)
b. May 30, 1926 d. May 3, 1989
Medical Pioneer, Social Reform Figure. She was a transsexual who made history as the first American man to be surgically changed to a woman. Born George William Jorgensen, Jr., he graduated from Christopher Columbus High School in Bronx, New York in May 1945, and shortly afterwards, was drafted into the United States Army for two years service. After leaving the Army, he began researching information on sexual imbalances, and soon discovered that he could have a sex change operation in.
Andrews, Frank Maxwell
b. February 3, 1884 d. May 3, 1943
United States Army General. He was commander of all United States Forces in Europe during the initial US involvement in that theatre during World War II. Graduating from the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1906, he initially served in the cavalry in the Philippines. From 1907 to 1917 he served at various forts, mostly in the northwest, until transferring to the Signal Corp.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Died On This Date
May 2
da Vinci, Leonardo
b. April 5, 1452 d. May 2, 1519
Artist, one of the great masters of the High Renaissance, who was also celebrated as a painter, sculptor, architect, engineer, and scientist. He was born on April 15, 1452, in the small Tuscan town of Vinci, near Florence. He was the son of a Florentine notary and a peasant woman. In the mid-1460s the family settled in Florence, where Leonardo was given the best education in Florence. He rapidly advanced socially and intellectually. He was handsome and a fine musician and improviser.
Reed, Oliver
b. February 13, 1938 d. May 2, 1999
Actor. Most remembered for his role as the brutal Bill Sykes in the award winning 1968 musical "Oliver!", Reed mostly played heavy roles that were suitable to his rough good looks. His off-screen personna was equal to that of his on-screen performances and was a notrorious drinker, carouser, womanizer and brawler. He was also known to have public disputes with the likes of Bette Davis, Jack Nicholson, Richard Harris, and Shelley Winters. Reed had a very humorous view of life and death. Cause of death: Heart attack.
Gallo, Julio
b. March 21, 1910 d. May 2, 1993
Wine Maker. Head of Ernest and Julio Wine. Younger Brother of Ernest Gallo.
Hoover, J. Edgar (John)
b. January 1, 1895 d. May 2, 1972
U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation Chief, Author. J. Edgar Hoover was the FBI director for over forty eight years until his death by a heart attack at age 77, after being appointed by President Calvin Coolege. He was born on New Year's Day in Washington, D.C. three blocks behind the Capitol in the Seward Square neighborhood. John was the youngest of three children born to Dickerson Naylor and Annie Marie Scheitlin Hoover.
Clampett, Bob
b. May 8, 1913 d. May 2, 1984
Renowned American animator of the 1930s, 40s, 50s, and 60s. Well-known for his innovative and influencial drawing style and animation directing. Worked for Warner Bros. for many years until producing the popular "Beany and Cecil" series of cartoons for television.
Marlowe, Hugh
b. January 30, 1911 d. May 2, 1982
Actor. Appeared on stage, in motion pictures, and on television from the 1930s to the 1960s. He appeared in the 1950 drama classic "All About Eve," as well as several classic TV series such as "Rawhide," "The Twilight Zone," and "Perry Mason." Cause of death: Heart attack.
Parsons, Edwin Charles 'Ted'
b. September 24, 1892 d. May 2, 1968
United States Naval Officer, World War I Flying Ace. A native of Holyoke, Massachusetts, Parsons was an experienced pilot when the war began., He went to France at the end of 1915 and served with the United States Ambulance service before enlisting in the French Foreign Legion. In 1916, he became a pilot in the French Air Service and was assigned to N124 in January 1917. He earned eight air combat victories during the conflict.
Clinton, Larry
b. August 17, 1909 d. May 2, 1985
Jazz Musician. He started out as an arranger and worked for the Dorsey Brothers and others before forming his own orchestra in 1937. With himself on trumpet, clarinet and trombone, along with the excellent vocalist Bea Wain, he had a string of hits. The band broke up in 1941 when he entered the Army and though they reformed after the war, they never achieved their previous success. In the 1950s Clinton opted for a career as a music publishing and record executive.
Pal, George
b. February 1, 1908 d. May 2, 1980
Motion Picture Director. Considered a legend in the motion picture industry as a producer, director, and special-effects pioneer, he produced the 1953 science fiction classic "The War of the Worlds." In 1960, he directed the sci-fi classic "The Time Machine," and later the innovative fantasy "Seven Faces of Dr. Lao" (1964). Cause of death: Heart attack.
Bennett, Edward Andrew
b. February 11, 1920 d. May 2, 1983
Medal of Honor recipient. His citation reads: He was advancing with Company B across open ground to assault Heckhuscheid, Germany, just after dark when vicious enemy machinegun fire from a house on the outskirts of the town pinned down the group and caused several casualties. He began crawling to the edge of the field in an effort to flank the house, persisting in this maneuver even when the hostile machine gunners located him by the light of burning buildings and attempted to cut him down.
Collins, Sidney
b. July 17, 1922 d. May 2, 1977
Sports Announcer. Charismatic radio personality who is best remembered as the "Voice of the 500." He began serving as chief announcer for the broadcasts of the Indianapolis 500 in 1952, the year in which full lap-by-lap live coverage of the classic began. He was the man who coined the phase "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing" and became synonymous with the race itself. It was his responsibility to tell international radio audiences of the crashes, deaths and disasters of his many racing fans.
Martin, Joseph Plumb
b. November 21, 1760 d. May 2, 1850
Revolutionary War Continental Army Soldier, Author. Born in Becket Massachusetts, at age seven he was left in the care of his maternal grandparents in Connecticut. In June of 1776, he signed a short–term enlistment of six months. He returned to his grandparents’ farm that December when his enlistment was up. After a winter at home he re-enlisted in April 1777. He served as a private in the 8th Connecticut Regiment, an element of General James Varnum's Brigade.
Loving, Mildred
b. July 22, 1939 d. May 2, 2008
Civil Rights figure. On June 2, 1958, Mildred Jeter, a black woman married Richard Loving, a white man. Their wedding took place in Washington, DC because their home state, Virginia, had a law prohibiting inter-racial marriages. They returned to Caroline County, VA and were arrested. In 1959 they pled guilty and were given a one year suspended sentence under the condition that they leave Virginia and not return for 25 years.
Hutton, June
b. August 11, 1920 d. May 2, 1973
Actress, Singer. She sang with the Charlie Spivak Band in the 1940s, and later became a member of The Pied Pipers. She was married to composer Axel Stordahl. She is buried with him in the same plot, although only his name is on the marker.
Foster, William A.
b. February 17, 1915 d. May 2, 1945
Was a private in the U.S. Marine Corps during WORLD WAR II who was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor on the Island of Okinawa. As the sole support of his family during the war, he was exempt from service but chose to enlist in the Marine Corps, in 1944. On May 1 1945, while on active combat duty with Co. K, 3d Battalion, 1st U.S. Marine Div., on Okinawa, Foster dove onto a live Japanese hand grenade that landed in a foxhole he shared with another Marine, and it exploded.
McKinsey, Beverlee
b. August 9, 1940 d. May 2, 2008
Actress. Born in McAlester, Oklahoma, she is best known for her roles in many popular daytime soap operas, among them as Alexandra Spaulding in "The Guiding Light". She began her career during the 1960s and appeared in such programs as, "The Defenders", "The Virginian", "Hawaii-Five-O" and "The Mod Squad". In addition to "The Guiding Light", she had recurring roles in the series "Love is a Many Splendored Thing", "Another World" and "Texas".
Rukeyser, Louis
b. January 30, 1933 d. May 2, 2006
Business columnist, economic commentator, and newscaster. He published two financial newsletters, "Louis Rukeyser's Wall Street" and "Louis Rukeyser's Mutual Funds." He was the son of financial journalist Merryle Rukeyser. Rukeyser had a significant impact in making the often arcane workings of the stock market and the economy better known to the mass public. Rukeyser was well known for his usage of wit and humor and a love of puns.
da Vinci, Leonardo
b. April 5, 1452 d. May 2, 1519
Artist, one of the great masters of the High Renaissance, who was also celebrated as a painter, sculptor, architect, engineer, and scientist. He was born on April 15, 1452, in the small Tuscan town of Vinci, near Florence. He was the son of a Florentine notary and a peasant woman. In the mid-1460s the family settled in Florence, where Leonardo was given the best education in Florence. He rapidly advanced socially and intellectually. He was handsome and a fine musician and improviser.
Reed, Oliver
b. February 13, 1938 d. May 2, 1999
Actor. Most remembered for his role as the brutal Bill Sykes in the award winning 1968 musical "Oliver!", Reed mostly played heavy roles that were suitable to his rough good looks. His off-screen personna was equal to that of his on-screen performances and was a notrorious drinker, carouser, womanizer and brawler. He was also known to have public disputes with the likes of Bette Davis, Jack Nicholson, Richard Harris, and Shelley Winters. Reed had a very humorous view of life and death. Cause of death: Heart attack.
Gallo, Julio
b. March 21, 1910 d. May 2, 1993
Wine Maker. Head of Ernest and Julio Wine. Younger Brother of Ernest Gallo.
Hoover, J. Edgar (John)
b. January 1, 1895 d. May 2, 1972
U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation Chief, Author. J. Edgar Hoover was the FBI director for over forty eight years until his death by a heart attack at age 77, after being appointed by President Calvin Coolege. He was born on New Year's Day in Washington, D.C. three blocks behind the Capitol in the Seward Square neighborhood. John was the youngest of three children born to Dickerson Naylor and Annie Marie Scheitlin Hoover.
Clampett, Bob
b. May 8, 1913 d. May 2, 1984
Renowned American animator of the 1930s, 40s, 50s, and 60s. Well-known for his innovative and influencial drawing style and animation directing. Worked for Warner Bros. for many years until producing the popular "Beany and Cecil" series of cartoons for television.
Marlowe, Hugh
b. January 30, 1911 d. May 2, 1982
Actor. Appeared on stage, in motion pictures, and on television from the 1930s to the 1960s. He appeared in the 1950 drama classic "All About Eve," as well as several classic TV series such as "Rawhide," "The Twilight Zone," and "Perry Mason." Cause of death: Heart attack.
Parsons, Edwin Charles 'Ted'
b. September 24, 1892 d. May 2, 1968
United States Naval Officer, World War I Flying Ace. A native of Holyoke, Massachusetts, Parsons was an experienced pilot when the war began., He went to France at the end of 1915 and served with the United States Ambulance service before enlisting in the French Foreign Legion. In 1916, he became a pilot in the French Air Service and was assigned to N124 in January 1917. He earned eight air combat victories during the conflict.
Clinton, Larry
b. August 17, 1909 d. May 2, 1985
Jazz Musician. He started out as an arranger and worked for the Dorsey Brothers and others before forming his own orchestra in 1937. With himself on trumpet, clarinet and trombone, along with the excellent vocalist Bea Wain, he had a string of hits. The band broke up in 1941 when he entered the Army and though they reformed after the war, they never achieved their previous success. In the 1950s Clinton opted for a career as a music publishing and record executive.
Pal, George
b. February 1, 1908 d. May 2, 1980
Motion Picture Director. Considered a legend in the motion picture industry as a producer, director, and special-effects pioneer, he produced the 1953 science fiction classic "The War of the Worlds." In 1960, he directed the sci-fi classic "The Time Machine," and later the innovative fantasy "Seven Faces of Dr. Lao" (1964). Cause of death: Heart attack.
Bennett, Edward Andrew
b. February 11, 1920 d. May 2, 1983
Medal of Honor recipient. His citation reads: He was advancing with Company B across open ground to assault Heckhuscheid, Germany, just after dark when vicious enemy machinegun fire from a house on the outskirts of the town pinned down the group and caused several casualties. He began crawling to the edge of the field in an effort to flank the house, persisting in this maneuver even when the hostile machine gunners located him by the light of burning buildings and attempted to cut him down.
Collins, Sidney
b. July 17, 1922 d. May 2, 1977
Sports Announcer. Charismatic radio personality who is best remembered as the "Voice of the 500." He began serving as chief announcer for the broadcasts of the Indianapolis 500 in 1952, the year in which full lap-by-lap live coverage of the classic began. He was the man who coined the phase "The Greatest Spectacle in Racing" and became synonymous with the race itself. It was his responsibility to tell international radio audiences of the crashes, deaths and disasters of his many racing fans.
Martin, Joseph Plumb
b. November 21, 1760 d. May 2, 1850
Revolutionary War Continental Army Soldier, Author. Born in Becket Massachusetts, at age seven he was left in the care of his maternal grandparents in Connecticut. In June of 1776, he signed a short–term enlistment of six months. He returned to his grandparents’ farm that December when his enlistment was up. After a winter at home he re-enlisted in April 1777. He served as a private in the 8th Connecticut Regiment, an element of General James Varnum's Brigade.
Loving, Mildred
b. July 22, 1939 d. May 2, 2008
Civil Rights figure. On June 2, 1958, Mildred Jeter, a black woman married Richard Loving, a white man. Their wedding took place in Washington, DC because their home state, Virginia, had a law prohibiting inter-racial marriages. They returned to Caroline County, VA and were arrested. In 1959 they pled guilty and were given a one year suspended sentence under the condition that they leave Virginia and not return for 25 years.
Hutton, June
b. August 11, 1920 d. May 2, 1973
Actress, Singer. She sang with the Charlie Spivak Band in the 1940s, and later became a member of The Pied Pipers. She was married to composer Axel Stordahl. She is buried with him in the same plot, although only his name is on the marker.
Foster, William A.
b. February 17, 1915 d. May 2, 1945
Was a private in the U.S. Marine Corps during WORLD WAR II who was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor on the Island of Okinawa. As the sole support of his family during the war, he was exempt from service but chose to enlist in the Marine Corps, in 1944. On May 1 1945, while on active combat duty with Co. K, 3d Battalion, 1st U.S. Marine Div., on Okinawa, Foster dove onto a live Japanese hand grenade that landed in a foxhole he shared with another Marine, and it exploded.
McKinsey, Beverlee
b. August 9, 1940 d. May 2, 2008
Actress. Born in McAlester, Oklahoma, she is best known for her roles in many popular daytime soap operas, among them as Alexandra Spaulding in "The Guiding Light". She began her career during the 1960s and appeared in such programs as, "The Defenders", "The Virginian", "Hawaii-Five-O" and "The Mod Squad". In addition to "The Guiding Light", she had recurring roles in the series "Love is a Many Splendored Thing", "Another World" and "Texas".
Rukeyser, Louis
b. January 30, 1933 d. May 2, 2006
Business columnist, economic commentator, and newscaster. He published two financial newsletters, "Louis Rukeyser's Wall Street" and "Louis Rukeyser's Mutual Funds." He was the son of financial journalist Merryle Rukeyser. Rukeyser had a significant impact in making the often arcane workings of the stock market and the economy better known to the mass public. Rukeyser was well known for his usage of wit and humor and a love of puns.
Friday, May 1, 2009
Died On This Date
May 1
Jones, Spike (Lindley Armstrong) b. December 14, 1911 d. May 1, 1965Bandleader. He went from playing serious music both with and for other artists to starting his own band that featured: whistles, auto horns, and other noisemaking equipment. The group was called "Spike Jones and His City Slickers." The group recorded "Der Fuehrer's Face" during World War II and went on to do take-offs on established songs such as "Cocktails for Two." They also did the holiday song, "All I Want For Christmas is My Two Front Teeth." Cause of death: Emphysema.
Rounds, Lewis A.
b. June 7, 1843 d. May 1, 1916
Civil War Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. He served as a Brevet Major in the Union Army. He was awarded the Medal of Honor as a Private in Company D, 8th Ohio Infantry for action on May 12, 1864 at Spotsylvania, Virginia. His citation reads "Capture of flag."
Knowles, Warren Perley
b. August 19, 1908 d. May 1, 1993
Served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, Member of Wisconsin State Senate, 1941-1954, Lieutenant Governor of Wisconsin, 1954-1958, 1960-1962, Delegate to Republican National Convention from Wisconsin, 1964, Governor of Wisconsin, 1965-1971.
Tyler (Markowski), Tom (Vincent)
b. August 9, 1903 d. May 1, 1954
Western actor. He starred in more than 90 B-grade western films from the 1920's to the 1940's. Movies and TV Series: Captain Marvel in the movie series, "Adventures of Captain Marvel." Crossroad Avenger: 'The Adventures of the Tucson Kid' 1953, 'The Yellow Haired Kid' 1952, 'She Wore A Yellow Ribbon' 1949, The Dalton Gang' 1949, 'I Shot Jesse James' 1949, 'The Golden Eye' 1948, 'Cheyenne' 1947, 'Never Say Goodbye' 1948, 'The Phantom' 1943, 'Riders of the Rio Grande' 1943, ' Outlaws of Cherokee. Cause of death: Heart attack
Pell Jr., Philip
b. July 7, 1753 d. May 1, 1811
Continental Congressman. Served in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. He was a Member of the New York State Assembly from Westchester County, from 1779 to 1781, and 1783 to 1784. Also served as a Delegate to the Continental Congress from New York from 1788 to 1789.
Corbitt, Claude
b. July 21, 1915 d. May 1, 1978
Major League Baseball Player. The infielder had two hits in four at-bats for the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1945 but was sold to Cincinnati on March 18, 1946. He saw limited with the Reds the next three seasons. The most he played was 87 games in 1948, when he hit .256. The right-handed hitter had a career batting average of .243 with one homer.
Hager, Jim
b. August 30, 1941 d. May 1, 2008
Entertainer. He and his twin brother Jon were regulars on the TV series "Hee-Haw" from 1969 until 1986. They were known for their rapid delivery of cornball one-liners. Born and raised in the Chicago area, the Hagers formed a musical-comedy duo and appeared on a Chicago TV program for teens while they were still in high school. After Buck Owens saw one of their shows, he hired them as his opening act and later brought them into "Hee-Haw".
Gobin, John Peter Shindel
b. January 26, 1837 d. May 1, 1910
Civil War Union Brevet Brigadier General. He entered his Civil War service as a 1st Lieutenant in Company F, 11th Pennsylvania (Three-Months) Volunteer Infantry. Promoted to Captain of Company C, 47th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, he participated in the capture of Jacksonville, Florida and capture of the Confederate War Steamer "Governor Milton" (the only steamer captured by infantry during the war). He fought with his unit at the Battle of Pocataligo, South Carolina, in the Red River.
Devereux, Henry K.
b. October 10, 1859 d. May 1, 1932
He was the drummer boy model in Archibald Willard's painting SPIRIT OF `76.He made his greatest contributions to harness racing. He invested in horses, winning over 3,000 cups and ribbons and accumulated 14 records. In 1895 he organized the Gentlemen's Driving Club of Cleveland, which competed with other clubs, professionalizing the sport and focusing attention on Cleveland.
Newton, John
b. August 25, 1822 d. May 1, 1895
Civil War Union Major General. West Point Class of 1842. I Corps Commander
Coulter, Ernest Kent
b. November 14, 1871 d. May 1, 1952
Social Reformer. The founder of the Big Brothers and Big Sisters of America in 1904, he was also a celebrated Welfare Activist, Journalist, Lecturer and Author as well as a major advocate of Children's rights founding the Children's Court of New York.
Watson, Douglass
b. February 24, 1921 d. May 1, 1989
Actor. Born Larkin Douglass Watson III in Jackson, Georgia, in 1921, he served in the United States Army during World War II before turning to acting. During the war he was honored with the Distinguished Flying Cross and 2 Purple Hearts. Best remembered for his roles on the television soap operas, "Another World" (1974-1989), as Mackenzie 'Mac' Cory', "Love Of Life" (1972-1973), as Dr. Lloyd Phillips, "Search For Tomorrow" (1967-1968), as Walter Haskins, and "Moment Of Truth" (1965).
Jones, Spike (Lindley Armstrong) b. December 14, 1911 d. May 1, 1965Bandleader. He went from playing serious music both with and for other artists to starting his own band that featured: whistles, auto horns, and other noisemaking equipment. The group was called "Spike Jones and His City Slickers." The group recorded "Der Fuehrer's Face" during World War II and went on to do take-offs on established songs such as "Cocktails for Two." They also did the holiday song, "All I Want For Christmas is My Two Front Teeth." Cause of death: Emphysema.
Rounds, Lewis A.
b. June 7, 1843 d. May 1, 1916
Civil War Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient. He served as a Brevet Major in the Union Army. He was awarded the Medal of Honor as a Private in Company D, 8th Ohio Infantry for action on May 12, 1864 at Spotsylvania, Virginia. His citation reads "Capture of flag."
Knowles, Warren Perley
b. August 19, 1908 d. May 1, 1993
Served in the U.S. Navy during World War II, Member of Wisconsin State Senate, 1941-1954, Lieutenant Governor of Wisconsin, 1954-1958, 1960-1962, Delegate to Republican National Convention from Wisconsin, 1964, Governor of Wisconsin, 1965-1971.
Tyler (Markowski), Tom (Vincent)
b. August 9, 1903 d. May 1, 1954
Western actor. He starred in more than 90 B-grade western films from the 1920's to the 1940's. Movies and TV Series: Captain Marvel in the movie series, "Adventures of Captain Marvel." Crossroad Avenger: 'The Adventures of the Tucson Kid' 1953, 'The Yellow Haired Kid' 1952, 'She Wore A Yellow Ribbon' 1949, The Dalton Gang' 1949, 'I Shot Jesse James' 1949, 'The Golden Eye' 1948, 'Cheyenne' 1947, 'Never Say Goodbye' 1948, 'The Phantom' 1943, 'Riders of the Rio Grande' 1943, ' Outlaws of Cherokee. Cause of death: Heart attack
Pell Jr., Philip
b. July 7, 1753 d. May 1, 1811
Continental Congressman. Served in the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. He was a Member of the New York State Assembly from Westchester County, from 1779 to 1781, and 1783 to 1784. Also served as a Delegate to the Continental Congress from New York from 1788 to 1789.
Corbitt, Claude
b. July 21, 1915 d. May 1, 1978
Major League Baseball Player. The infielder had two hits in four at-bats for the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1945 but was sold to Cincinnati on March 18, 1946. He saw limited with the Reds the next three seasons. The most he played was 87 games in 1948, when he hit .256. The right-handed hitter had a career batting average of .243 with one homer.
Hager, Jim
b. August 30, 1941 d. May 1, 2008
Entertainer. He and his twin brother Jon were regulars on the TV series "Hee-Haw" from 1969 until 1986. They were known for their rapid delivery of cornball one-liners. Born and raised in the Chicago area, the Hagers formed a musical-comedy duo and appeared on a Chicago TV program for teens while they were still in high school. After Buck Owens saw one of their shows, he hired them as his opening act and later brought them into "Hee-Haw".
Gobin, John Peter Shindel
b. January 26, 1837 d. May 1, 1910
Civil War Union Brevet Brigadier General. He entered his Civil War service as a 1st Lieutenant in Company F, 11th Pennsylvania (Three-Months) Volunteer Infantry. Promoted to Captain of Company C, 47th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, he participated in the capture of Jacksonville, Florida and capture of the Confederate War Steamer "Governor Milton" (the only steamer captured by infantry during the war). He fought with his unit at the Battle of Pocataligo, South Carolina, in the Red River.
Devereux, Henry K.
b. October 10, 1859 d. May 1, 1932
He was the drummer boy model in Archibald Willard's painting SPIRIT OF `76.He made his greatest contributions to harness racing. He invested in horses, winning over 3,000 cups and ribbons and accumulated 14 records. In 1895 he organized the Gentlemen's Driving Club of Cleveland, which competed with other clubs, professionalizing the sport and focusing attention on Cleveland.
Newton, John
b. August 25, 1822 d. May 1, 1895
Civil War Union Major General. West Point Class of 1842. I Corps Commander
Coulter, Ernest Kent
b. November 14, 1871 d. May 1, 1952
Social Reformer. The founder of the Big Brothers and Big Sisters of America in 1904, he was also a celebrated Welfare Activist, Journalist, Lecturer and Author as well as a major advocate of Children's rights founding the Children's Court of New York.
Watson, Douglass
b. February 24, 1921 d. May 1, 1989
Actor. Born Larkin Douglass Watson III in Jackson, Georgia, in 1921, he served in the United States Army during World War II before turning to acting. During the war he was honored with the Distinguished Flying Cross and 2 Purple Hearts. Best remembered for his roles on the television soap operas, "Another World" (1974-1989), as Mackenzie 'Mac' Cory', "Love Of Life" (1972-1973), as Dr. Lloyd Phillips, "Search For Tomorrow" (1967-1968), as Walter Haskins, and "Moment Of Truth" (1965).
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)