K9 Veterans Day
National K9 Veterans Day is observed annually on March 13 to honor the service and sacrifices of American military and working dogs. This date commemorates the establishment of the U.S. Army’s K9 Corps on March 13, 1942, marking the first official inclusion of dogs in the U.S. Armed Forces . The initiative to create this day was led by Joseph White, a retired military working dog trainer, to recognize the vital roles these canines play in various sectors, including the military, law enforcement, search and rescue, and as service animals for individuals with disabilities .
Earmuff Day
National Earmuff Day is celebrated annually on March 13 to honor the invention of earmuffs by Chester Greenwood. At the age of 15, Greenwood devised the first earmuffs in 1873 to protect his ears while ice skating in the cold Maine winters. He later patented his “ear-mufflers” on March 13, 1877.
Napping Day
National Napping Day is observed annually on the Monday following the start of Daylight Saving Time in the United States. In 2025, it falls on March 10. Created in 1999 by Boston University professor William Anthony, Ph.D., and his wife Camille, National Napping Day was designed to raise awareness about the health benefits of napping and to help people adjust to the hour of sleep lost during the spring time change.
Historical Happenings
624 – Battle of Badr begins
A pivotal battle in Islamic history, where Prophet Muhammad’s forces achieved a key victory against the Quraysh of Mecca.
1781 – Discovery of Uranus
British astronomer William Herschel discovered Uranus, the first planet identified with a telescope, expanding the known boundaries of the solar system.
1877 – Earmuffs patented
Chester Greenwood received a patent for his invention of earmuffs, originally designed to keep his ears warm while ice skating in cold Maine winters.
1881 – Assassination of Czar Alexander II
The Russian emperor was killed in St. Petersburg by members of the revolutionary group “People’s Will,” leading to increased political repression.
1942 – Establishment of the U.S. Army K-9 Corps
The U.S. Army formally began training and utilizing dogs for military service during World War II.
2013 – Election of Pope Francis
Argentine Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio was elected pope, becoming the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, and the first non-European pope in over 1,200 years.
Notable Births
Joseph Priestley (1733) – English theologian, chemist, and philosopher credited with the discovery of oxygen.
Charles Grey, 2nd Earl Grey (1764) – British Prime Minister known for the Reform Act 1832 and the abolition of slavery in the British Empire.
Percival Lowell (1855) – American astronomer who predicted the existence of Pluto and founded the Lowell Observatory.
Neil Sedaka (1939) – American pop singer-songwriter and pianist, famous for hits like “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do.”
L. Ron Hubbard (1911) – American author and founder of the Church of Scientology.
William H. Macy (1950) – American actor known for roles in “Fargo” and the TV series “Shameless.”
Dana Delany (1956) – American actress recognized for her work in “China Beach” and “Desperate Housewives.”
Common (1972) – American rapper, actor, and activist, winner of an Academy Award for Best Original Song.
Jack Harlow (1998) – American rapper known for songs like “What’s Poppin” and “First Class.”
Coco Gauff (2004) – American professional tennis player who gained prominence with her performance at Wimbledon at age 15.
Notable Deaths
Alexander II of Russia (1818–1881): Emperor of Russia from 1855 until his assassination in 1881. He is renowned for emancipating the serfs in 1861 and implementing significant reforms in Russian society.
Susan B. Anthony (1820–1906): A leading figure in the women’s suffrage movement in the United States. Anthony played a pivotal role in advocating for women’s right to vote and was instrumental in the eventual passage of the 19th Amendment.
Benjamin Harrison (1833–1901): The 23rd President of the United States, serving from 1889 to 1893. His administration is noted for economic legislation, including the McKinley Tariff and the Sherman Antitrust Act.
Clarence Darrow (1857–1938): An American lawyer and leading member of the American Civil Liberties Union. He is best known for defending John T. Scopes in the Scopes “Monkey” Trial, which debated the legality of teaching evolution in schools.
Stephen Vincent Benét (1898–1943): An American poet, short story writer, and novelist, recognized for his works that often explored American folklore and history.
William Hurt (1950–2022): An Academy Award-winning American actor known for his roles in films such as “Kiss of the Spider Woman,” “Broadcast News,” and “A History of Violence.”
Menzi Ngubane (1964–2021): A South African actor celebrated for his performances in television series like “Generations” and “Isibaya.”
Sofia Gubaidulina (1931–2025): A Russian composer acclaimed for her innovative compositions that often incorporated spiritual and religious themes.
John Feinstein (1956–2025): An American sportswriter and author known for his insightful books on sports and athletes, including “A Season on the Brink” and “The Last Amateurs.”
