An American yachtsman who won two Olympic gold medals and five Star World Championships, earning him a reputation as one of the greatest sailors in the history of the sport.
Robert "Buck" Halperin was an American business executive, decorated WWII naval officer, and Star class yacht racer, best known as the co-founder of Lands' End and chairman of Chicago's Commercial Light Company. Born on January 26, 1908, in Chicago, Illinois, Halperin was a multi-talented individual who excelled in various fields throughout his life.
Halperin's athletic career began at Oak Park High School, where he was the captain of the football team. He then went on to play football for Notre Dame under legendary coach Knute Rockne and later for the University of Wisconsin, graduating in 1932. After college, he played professional football as a quarterback for the Brooklyn Dodgers in the National Football League under coach Benny Friedman.
Halperin joined the United States Navy on March 19, 1942, at the age of 34, rising to the level of lieutenant commander. He played a crucial role in World War II as a scout, guiding assault infantry and maintaining critical beach landings throughout the war.
Halperin was one of Chicago's most decorated sailors in World War II, earning numerous awards and decorations for his bravery and service. His naval career was marked by exceptional leadership and courage, earning him the respect and admiration of his peers and superiors.
After the war, Halperin co-founded Lands' End, a clothing company that would go on to become a household name. He also served as the chairman of Commercial Light Company, a Chicago-based electrical contractor founded by his father in 1915.
Halperin's business philosophy was centered around providing quality products and exceptional customer service. Under his leadership, Lands' End became synonymous with quality and reliability, earning a loyal customer base and establishing itself as a leader in the clothing industry.
In the 1960s, Halperin's passion for sailing led him to compete in the Star class yacht racing, earning a bronze medal at the Olympic Games and a gold medal at the Pan American Games.
Halperin's achievements in sailing cemented his status as a versatile and accomplished athlete, earning him recognition and respect within the sailing community.
Halperin was married to Margaret Stralka, and they had three sons, Thomas, Patrick, and Daniel. He lived in Chicago and Palm Springs, California, and was active in his community throughout his life.
Robert "Buck" Halperin's legacy extends far beyond his many accomplishments. He was a true leader, a decorated naval officer, a successful businessman, and a dedicated family man. His life serves as an inspiration to generations, demonstrating the power of hard work, determination, and a commitment to excellence.
76 Years Old
A British guitarist and songwriter, known for his work with Wishbone Ash, contributing to the band's unique twin-lead guitar sound and penning many of their hit songs.
98 Years Old
A four-time Olympic gold medalist and 19-time world champion, known for dominating the sport of sailing with innovative tactics and techniques.
Born in 1910
Australian public servant who played a key role in shaping the country's foreign policy and international relations, particularly during the Cold War era.
