Aguiyi-Ironsi, Johnson Thomas Umunnakwe

1924 - Aguiyi-Ironsi was born in Umuahia, Nigeria on March 3, 1924.

1942 - Joined the Nigerian Army.

1948 - Became 2nd Lieutenant in the Royal West African Frontier Force.

1953 - Promoted to the rank of Captain.

1955 - Promoted to the rank of Major.

1960 - Promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

1961 - Headed the Nigerian contingent in the United Nations Force.

1964 - Promoted to the rank of Major General and became the head of the Nigerian Army in February.

1966 - Became the first military Head of State of Nigeria after a military coup and commanded the Armed Forces. He was killed durin a coup d'etat that took place on July 29, 1966.