Michael de la Force

03/12/2026

(On this Day) HONORING THE HARLEM HELLFIGHTERS

The 369th Infantry Regiment, originally formed as the 15th New York National Guard Regiment before it was re-organized as the 369th upon its federalization and commonly referred to as the Harlem Hellfighters, was an infantry regiment of the New York Army National Guard during World War I and World War II.
The regiment mainly consisted of African Americans, but it also included men from Puerto Rico, Cuba, Guyana, Liberia, Portugal, Canada, the West Indies, as well as white American officers. With the 370th Infantry Regiment, it was known for being one of the first African-American regiments to serve with the American Expeditionary Forces during World War I.

The regiment was named the Black Rattlers after arriving in France by its commander Colonel William Hayward. The nickname Men of Bronze (French: Hommes de Bronze) was given to the regiment by the French after they had witnessed the gallantry of the Americans fighting in the trenches. Legend has it that they were called the Hellfighters (German: Höllenkämpfer) by the German enemy, although there is no documentation of this and the moniker may have been a creation of the American press. During World War I, the 369th spent 191 days in front line trenches, more than any other American unit. They also suffered the most losses of any American regiment, with 1,500 casualties. The regiment was also the first of the Allied forces to cross the Rhine into Germany.

About the Image: On this Day at the French Consulate, New York City, {Left to Right} Fashion Designer Stephanie van Burk, United States Army Specialist Amorim, United States Army Sergeant Purandah, United States Army Staff Sergeant Charles, United States Army Staff Sergeant Brockman, Michael de la Force in New York City)

12/18/2025

SUNNY CITY MORNING

08/02/2024

ON THIS DAY: A FRENCH FEDORA AND MICHAEL'S ADMIRATION FOR MILLNER JEANNIE LANVIN'S HOUSE OF LANVIN

Having been friendly with the Lanvin family of France, I was happy to be introduced to the history of the great French Millner, Madame Jeanne Lanvin. This family maintains an immense style.
Visiting their château in the countryside of France is one of my great memories. Ms. Meryl Lanvin served lunch on a cabbage green and eggshell-colored set of porcelain, after Mr. Bernard Lanvin provided a tour of his garage, which included exquisite automobiles like the Acura NSX and Ferrari, and the pool house he had built for his son's and their wives.

The Lanvin's kindly filled for me, on an international level, the rhythm from one of my favorite songs by the band America, featuring the lyrics:
"This is for all the lonely people
Thinkin' that life has passed them by
Don't give up until you drink from the silver cup
And ride that highway in the sky"

(Insert link to America's Lonely People: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Sn2tKDZB3I )

They filled the silver cup, because, in addition to the great green and white porcelain, when Mrs. Lanvin served lunch, she also served a nice French wine in a silver cup.

I was able to repay the family's kindness by introducing the Lanvin sons to Eva Jeanbart-Lorenzotti, when Eva was developing her concept for her publication, Vivre.
Since launching, Vivre Eva has been named one of Vogue’s “ten most stylish women in fashion”. I enjoyed introducing Eva to the Lanvins over dinner at The Paper Moon on 58th Street in Manhattan. The concept of this collaboration at the time made a lot of sense, especially because the Lanvins were creating a concept called World Style.

For me, in business, and life, the concept was that everyone always wins.
Otherwise, what is the point? It is not always simple to accomplish that goal, unless, of course, one brings together the types of the aforementioned World Citizens.

Michael de la Force, Like Magazine, 8.2.24




Jeanne Lanvin: A Pioneer of French Haute Couture

Early Life and Career Beginnings
Jeanne-Marie Lanvin was born on January 1, 1867, in Paris, France, the eldest of 11 children to Constantin Lanvin and Sophie Deshayes. From an early age, Lanvin exhibited a keen interest in fashion. At 16, she began her career as an apprentice milliner (hat maker) at Madame Félix in Paris. This apprenticeship laid the foundation for her future in fashion, providing her with essential skills and experience in the industry.

Establishing Her Own Brand
In 1889, at the age of 22, Lanvin opened her own millinery shop on rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré in Paris. Her shop quickly gained popularity for its exquisite hats, and her business began to flourish. In 1895, she married Count Emilio di Pietro, an Italian nobleman, and had her only child, Marguerite, in 1897. The marriage, however, ended in divorce in 1903, and Lanvin later remarried Xavier Melet, a journalist, in 1907.

Transition to Haute Couture
Lanvin's transition from millinery to haute couture began in 1909 when she started designing dresses for her daughter, Marguerite. The elegant and youthful designs caught the attention of other mothers, who began requesting similar outfits for their children. This demand led Lanvin to expand her creations to include children's clothing and eventually women's wear.

The House of Lanvin
By 1909, Lanvin had officially established her fashion house, "House of Lanvin." She became a member of the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture (Parisian Fashion Council), which marked her transition from milliner to a recognized fashion designer. Lanvin's designs were characterized by their use of luxurious fabrics, intricate embellishments, and a distinctive color palette, including the famous "Lanvin blue." Her designs often featured elements inspired by different cultures, such as Aztec embroidery and Orientalist influences.

Iconic Designs and Innovations
Lanvin introduced several iconic designs that left a lasting impact on the fashion industry:
Robe de Style: Introduced in 1913, this design featured billowy, full skirts inspired by 18th-century fashion. It became immensely popular and influenced future designers, including Christian Dior.

Chemise Dress: This unfitted, column-like dress became synonymous with the 1920s and was worn by women worldwide.
Menswear: In 1926, Lanvin expanded her brand to include menswear, making her the first designer to offer clothing for the entire family.

Expansion and Legacy
Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, Lanvin's fashion house continued to grow. She ventured into the perfume industry, releasing the classic fragrance Arpège in 1927. Lanvin also opened stores in various French cities, including Cannes, Nice, and Biarritz. Her designs attracted high-profile clients, including movie stars like Marlene Dietrich, Yvonne Printemps, and Mary Pickford.
Lanvin's ability to blend business acumen with creative vision allowed her to expand her brand into various lines, including swimwear, casual wear, fur, lingerie, and home décor. Her innovative use of color and fabric, along with her attention to detail, set her apart as a pioneer in the fashion industry.

Later Life
Jeanne Lanvin continued to design and manage her fashion house until her death on July 6, 1946, in Paris. Her daughter, Marguerite Marie-Blanche de Polignac, took over the business, ensuring that Lanvin's legacy lived on. The House of Lanvin remains one of the oldest French fashion houses still in existence, continuing to produce high-end fashion and perfumes.

Influence and Recognition
Jeanne Lanvin's contributions to fashion have been widely recognized. Her innovative designs and business strategies influenced many future designers and helped shape the fashion industry. The enduring popularity of her brand and the continued relevance of her designs attest to her lasting impact on haute couture.

In summary, Jeanne Lanvin's journey from a milliner's apprentice to a celebrated haute couture designer exemplifies her talent, creativity, and determination. Her legacy continues to inspire and influence the world of fashion, making her a true icon in the industry.

Other French hat makers include one of the most famous men's fedora hat makers in France, which is Borsalino, although it is actually an Italian brand.
Founded in 1857 by Giuseppe Borsalino in Alessandria, Italy, it is renowned for its luxury hats, including the fedora, which is characterized by its wide brim and creased crown. Borsalino has become a symbol of elegance and sophistication in men's fashion, making it a sought-after brand for high-quality fedoras.

In addition to Borsalino, Chapellerie Traclet in France offers a wide selection of fedora hats, including those made by Borsalino. They are known for their quality products and provide a variety of styles suitable for different occasions.

While Borsalino is the standout name in luxury fedora production, other brands like Mossant, which was historically significant in

French hat-making, also produced high-quality fedoras before ceasing operations in 1998. Mossant was known for its craftsmanship and was a prominent player in the hat industry during the early 20th century.

These brands exemplify the rich tradition of fedora-making, combining style with quality craftsmanship.

Today there are several renowned French hat makers specialize in men's hats, particularly berets, which are iconic in French culture. Here are some of the most notable:

Maison Laulhère
Founded in 1840, Maison Laulhère is highly regarded for its traditional French berets. The company produces high-quality headwear in France, utilizing unique methods that blend tradition with modern fashion. They offer a variety of berets, including the classic Basque beret, available in multiple colors and styles for both men and women.

Chapeaux d'Angèle
Located in Bayeux, Normandy, Chapeaux d'Angèle was established in 2014 by designer Angélique Latscha. This shop offers a selection of men's and women's hats, including traditional berets from the premier brand Laulhère. The store emphasizes quality and authenticity, providing a range of stylish options for hat enthusiasts.

Anthony Peto
Anthony Peto is another notable French hat maker with boutiques in Paris and Dublin. Known for quality handmade hats, Peto's workshop produces a variety of styles suitable for both men and women, emphasizing craftsmanship and design.
These makers exemplify the rich tradition of French hat-making, particularly in the realm of berets, which remain a fashionable accessory for men.

07/20/2024

(ON THIS DAY) GLOBAL GOODWILL AMBASSADOR ENDORSEMENT

"Coweta native Michael de la Force has been endorsed to become an Ambassador of the Goodwill Diplomatic Corps.
The endorsement came July 11 in New York City from Taina A. Rokotuiveikau Woodward, national president for the Pan Pacific Southeast Asia Women’s Association USA.
Woodward cited de la Force’s passion to chronicle and engage top New York City social events and causes.
de la Force has received nomination support for the honor from United Nations NGO PPSEAWA, to which he has belonged for over 15 years.
According to a news release, his creativity as a photojournalist has captured and etched memories of active projects supporting their 85-year mission.
That mission is to strengthen the bonds of peace by fostering a better understanding of the cultures of and friendship among women (and men) of all Pacific and Southeast Asia areas.
de la Force is a photojournalist, advocate, philanthropist, humanitarian and social ambassador. His work is said to encapsulate the pulse of New York City particularly with celebrities, fashion designers, models, actors, politicians, cultural icons and the power elite.
He is a longtime member of the New York Press Club as a publisher, journalist and photojournalist. He is publisher of Leadership Media and Like Magazine.
The Coweta native has received White House press credentials and has photographed President Barack Obama on two occasions. Others include former United States presidents and many international dignitaries.
de la Force is also a professional actor. He has been an active member of the Screen Actors Guild/American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG/AFTRA) since 1998 and has worked on a number of television shows, commercials and more, including the soap opera, “As the World Turns.”

07/15/2024

AN INTERVIEW AT SCRIPPS

Scripps Institution of Oceanography, an Oceanography and Earth science research center was established in 1903. The parent company of the institution is the University of California at San Diego. Their academic staff numbers around 415 with an administrative staff of about 800.
The Scripps Institution of Oceanography (SIO) was founded in 1903 as the Marine Biological Association of San Diego by William E. Ritter, a biologist, and Fred Baker, a physician. Their goal was to advance marine sciences on the California coast. The institution's early development was made possible through the financial support of newspaper magnate E.W. Scripps and his half-sister Ellen Browning Scripps.
In 1905, the association purchased a 170-acre site in La Jolla, north of San Diego, for $1,000 at a public auction. The first permanent building, now known as the Old Scripps Building, was constructed in 1910 with funding from E.W. and E.B. Scripps.
The institution underwent several name changes throughout its early years:
In 1912, it was incorporated into the University of California system and renamed the Scripps Institution for Biological Research.
In October 1925, it was renamed the Scripps Institution of Oceanography to reflect the growing faculty's expanded range of studies.
Scripps' first research vessel, the Alexander Agassiz, was acquired in 1907, marking one of the first oceanographic research vessels for an American non-governmental institution. The institution's iconic pier was completed in 1916, allowing for daily measurements that continue to this day.
Throughout its history, Scripps has been at the forefront of oceanographic research. It has broadened its focus to encompass various aspects of Earth science, including physics, chemistry, geology, biology, and climate studies.

(Photograph Michael de la Force interviews Professor Charles Cox at his office at Scripps Institution of Oceanography)




Charles "Chip" Shipley Cox served as an oceanographic physicist. He was particularly well known for his work on electromagnetic phenomenon, fine grained pressure and salinity measurements in the ocean depths and surface.

Early life and education
Cox was born to a Quaker family on the Hawaiian island Maui, he was the grandson of Catharine Elizabeth Bean Cox and a relative of Howard Brinton. Cox was raised on the island of Kauai in ʻEleʻele, where his father, Joel Cox, worked as a civil engineer in the McBride sugarcane plantation. He received a bachelor's degree in physics from the California Institute of Technology in 1944, where he learned quantum mechanics from Linus Pauling and worked as a draftsman for William Alfred Fowler at the Kellogg Radiation Lab at Caltech on rocket development for the Navy. Cox started as a graduate student in physics at Caltech, but he became disenchanted by the development and deployment of the atomic bomb and the future of nuclear physics. In 1947 he heard a talk by a researcher from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, an institution he had previously not known about. Following his love of the ocean he had developed growing up in Hawaii, Cox switched to study at Scripps. He received a PhD in oceanography from the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in 1954, studying under renowned physicist and oceanographer, Walter Munk.

As a graduate student, he purchased a 110 ft Navy reconnaissance vessel, made surplus after World War II, and he worked as a commercial fisherman for albacore, operating this boat designed for a crew of five typically with just a single associate. His graduate adviser, Walter Munk described the experience of going to sea with him thus, "Skipper Cox would signal from the bridge to the engine room, then run down below to get engines going, then run on deck to release the mooring lines, etc. A few hours later, ship cook Cox would dish up a delicious luncheon."

Career
After graduating with his PhD, Cox pursued a brief postdoctoral fellowship in Japan, before returning to Scripps to join the research staff, obtaining a joint position of assistant professor at Scripps, then was promoted to associate professor in 1960 (and received a joint appointment to UCSD which was founded that year), and then full professor in 1966. He retired from actively teaching and advising students in September 1991 and became emeritus, but retained an office at Scripps and continued to do research, including ship based research expeditions to collect data. In his later years he was very interested in the history of science, especially where it interacted with his interests in oceanography. He continued to actively research and write, including a paper on the history of oil being used to calm dangerously breaking waves was published.

Research
Cox did early work on using light scattering to study properties of the sea surface with Walter Munk. Cox was a pioneer in the development of instrumentation of measure electro-magnetic activity on the seafloor. Developing unique measurement instruments, modeling techniques, and basic theory to both measure and understand the EM properties of the deep oceans. He then did similar work in fine scale measurements of salinity and pressure. Cox developed the differential pressure gauges used for accurately measuring pressure fluctuations on the seafloor, enabling a detailed understanding of seafloor acoustics.

06/12/2024

(On this day) Michael de la Force at Allenhurst Beach Club

06/06/2024

PHOTOJOURNALIST CHEN G. SCHIMMEL

Photographer: Michael de la Force, June 2024

05/27/2024

ON THIS DAY: HONORING OUR FORCES PARADE

John McKenna (U.S. military veteran, World War II era), Richard McLaughlin, Michael de la Force



An Overview of the Branches of the U.S. Military

Introduction:
The United States Armed Forces is one of the most powerful and sophisticated military organizations in the world. Comprising five distinct branches, each with unique roles and responsibilities, the U.S. military plays a crucial role in defending the nation, promoting peace and security, and providing humanitarian aid around the globe.

1. United States Army:
The U.S. Army is the largest and oldest branch of the U.S. military. It is primarily responsible for land-based military operations and plays a key role in ground combat, peacekeeping missions, disaster relief efforts, and more. The Army is known for its soldiers, who receive extensive training in a wide range of skills, including combat tactics, marksmanship, and leadership.

2. United States Navy:
The U.S. Navy is the naval warfare branch of the U.S. military and is responsible for maintaining maritime superiority. With a fleet of ships, submarines, and aircraft carriers, the Navy conducts a wide range of missions, including protecting sea lanes, projecting power ashore, and conducting humanitarian operations. Navy personnel are trained in naval operations, navigation, engineering, and more.

3. United States Air Force:
The U.S. Air Force is the aerial warfare branch of the U.S. military and is responsible for air and space operations. It operates a vast fleet of aircraft, including fighter jets, bombers, and drones, and plays a crucial role in providing air support for ground forces, conducting strategic bombing missions, and defending U.S. airspace. Air Force personnel are trained in aviation, aerospace engineering, and air combat tactics.

4. United States Marine Corps:
The U.S. Marine Corps is a unique branch of the U.S. military that serves as a rapid reaction force and specializes in amphibious operations. Marines are known for their elite training, physical fitness, and expeditionary capabilities. They are often the first to respond to crises around the world and are trained to operate in diverse environments, from deserts to jungles.

5. United States Coast Guard:
The U.S. Coast Guard is a multi-mission maritime service responsible for enforcing maritime law, protecting the nation's coastlines, and conducting search and rescue operations. The Coast Guard plays a vital role in maritime security, environmental protection, and disaster response. Coast Guard personnel are trained in maritime law enforcement, navigation, and marine safety.

Conclusion:
The branches of the U.S. military work together seamlessly to protect the nation and its interests both at home and abroad. Each branch brings unique capabilities and expertise to the table, ensuring that the U.S. Armed Forces remain a formidable and versatile force in today's complex security environment.

05/25/2024

(Shared on this day): A QUEEN'S ES**RT

Description of this image is appended as follows:
Michael de la Force escorts 1991 Senior class queen, driving 1991 electric blue RS edition of Chevrolet's Camaro, sponsored by Chevrolet, The Heartbeat of America. Michael's hair style sponsored by Eric and Regina Tharrington-Smith's regional salon chain: Heads Unlimited.

Michael is represented here by The Linda Layman Agency

Michael de la Force images publishes a variety of images from around the globe.

All rights reserved

05/24/2024

FORTY-FIFTH PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, DONALD JOHN TRUMP

Photographer: Michael de la Force, Like Magazine

The Early Years of Donald J. Trump: A Glimpse into His Youth and Coming of Age

Before becoming a prominent figure in the business and political spheres, Donald John Trump's early years laid the foundation for his future success and influence. Born on June 14, 1946, in Queens, New York City, to Fred and Mary Trump, Donald Trump grew up in a family with a strong work ethic and a passion for real estate development.

**Youthful Ambitions and Education:**
From a young age, Donald Trump exhibited a keen interest in business and entrepreneurship. Inspired by his father's successful real estate ventures, he showed a natural aptitude for negotiation and deal-making. Trump attended the New York Military Academy, where he developed leadership skills and discipline that would later serve him well in his professional endeavors.

**Early Business Ventures:**
After graduating from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania with a degree in economics, Donald Trump joined his father's real estate company, The Trump Organization. He quickly made a name for himself in the New York City real estate market, overseeing the development of successful projects such as the Grand Hyatt Hotel and Trump Tower.

**Entrepreneurial Spirit and Success:**
Donald Trump's entrepreneurial spirit and vision led him to expand his business empire beyond real estate into various industries, including casinos, hotels, and entertainment. His ability to brand himself and his projects with the "Trump" name became synonymous with luxury and opulence, further solidifying his reputation as a shrewd businessman.

**The Art of the Deal:**
In 1987, Donald Trump co-authored the bestselling book "The Art of the Deal," in which he shared insights into his business strategies and philosophies. The book became a commercial success and further elevated Trump's public profile as a savvy dealmaker and businessman.

**Personal Resilience and Perseverance:**
Throughout his youth and coming of age, Donald Trump faced challenges and setbacks but demonstrated resilience and determination in overcoming them. His ability to bounce back from business failures and personal hardships showcased his tenacity and refusal to give up in the face of adversity.

In conclusion, the early years of Donald Trump provide a glimpse into the formative experiences and influences that shaped his character and laid the groundwork for his later achievements. From his youth in Queens to his rise as a prominent business magnate and eventually a political figure, Donald Trump's story is one of ambition, entrepreneurship, and a relentless pursuit of success.