Beheading & Martyrdom of John the Baptist

John the Baptist has two feast days -- his earthly birthday on June 24, sixth months before the birthday of his cousin, and August 29th, his birthday into eternal life, the day he was executed by Herod at the request of Salome to who he'd promised anything she asked for. Apparently, Herod was fascinated by John, even though John condemned his adultery with his half-brother's wife. Why did John…