Birth of George Polk
Journalist George Polk was born on October 17, 1913, in Fort Worth, Texas. He served as a Navy pilot during World War II before losing his life reporting on the Greek Civil War in 1948.
World War II
Birth of President Eisenhower
Dwight Eisenhower was born October 14, 1890, in Denison, Texas. After serving as Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force in WWII, he was elected America’s 34th president.
Disabled American Veterans
On September 25, 1920, the Disabled American Veterans (DAV) was officially established as a national social welfare organization. The organization provides millions of dollars in support for disabled veterans.
Happy Birthday Hank Williams
Hiram King “Hank” Williams was born on September 17, 1923, In Butler County, Alabama. “The King of Country Music,” he wrote hundreds of hits and helped establish the rockabilly style.
Birth of Bear Bryant
Football star and coach Paul William “Bear” Bryant was born on September 11, 1913, in Moro Bottom, Arkansas. Over the course of his coaching career, he broke the record at the time for the most victories, with 323 regular season wins.
Allied Invasion of Italy
On September 3, 1943, the Allies launched their invasion of Italy during World War II. Part of Operation Husky, it ultimately led to the liberation of Rome in June 1944.
Liberation of Paris
On August 25, 1944, Allied troops liberated Paris, France after four years of Nazi occupation.
Happy Birthday Count Basie!
William James “Count” Basie was born on August 21, 1904, in Red Bank, New Jersey. One of America’s most notable Big Band leaders, he earned nine Grammy awards and made a permanent mark on American music.
Atlantic Charter
On August 14, 1941, Franklin Roosevelt and Winston Churchill issued the Atlantic Charter, which defined their postwar goals for the world. The Atlantic Charter is credited as the inspiration for several international agreements that followed.