Aleksandr Osipenko Fighter pilot, Heroes of the National Revolutionary War in Spain Date of Birth: 01.06.1910 Country: Finland

1. Alexander Osipenko: Fighter Pilot and Hero of the Soviet Union
2. Early Life and Military Career
3. Participation in the Spanish Civil War
4. Later Career and Legacy

Alexander Osipenko: Fighter Pilot and Hero of the Soviet Union

Alexander Osipenko was a fighter pilot and one of the heroes of the national-revolutionary war in Spain. He was awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union on February 22, 1939. He was also honored with the Order of Lenin, three Orders of the Red Banner, Orders of Kutuzov 1st and 2nd class, Order of Suvorov 2nd class, Order of the Patriotic War 1st class, Orders of the Red Star, Labor Red Banner, "Sign of Honor", and various medals.

Early Life and Military Career

Alexander Osipenko was born in a peasant family and grew up in the village of Novosyolki in the Smolensk region of Russia. He joined the Red Army in 1929 and graduated from the Leningrad Military-Theoretical School of Aviation in 1930. In 1932, he completed his training at the 2nd Military School of Aviation in Borisoglebsk. Osipenko served as the commander of a squadron and later as the commander of the 40th squadron of the 83rd Fighter Aviation Brigade of the Belarusian Military District.

In 1936, he was awarded the Order of "Sign of Honor" for his achievements in combat, political, and technical training. In the same year, he married his fellow servicewoman Polina Denisovna Govyaz, who later became a decorated pilot herself and was awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union.

Participation in the Spanish Civil War

From January 12 to June 28, 1938, Osipenko took part in the national-revolutionary war in Spain. He served as the commander of a squadron and later as a squadron leader. He flew the I-15 fighter aircraft and participated in 30 aerial battles, shooting down 23 enemy fighters and 3 bombers. Under his command, his squadron destroyed 34 enemy aircraft in the air and 17 on the ground. For his achievements, he was awarded the Order of the Red Banner on November 14, 1938.

Osipenko's experiences in the Spanish Civil War were intense and challenging. He recalls the fierce aerial battles and the difficulties of fighting in mountainous terrain. Despite the obstacles, Osipenko demonstrated exceptional flying and shooting skills, earning the respect of his fellow pilots.

Later Career and Legacy

After the Spanish Civil War, Osipenko continued his military career and participated in further combat missions. He fought in the battles in Aragon, where he engaged in intense dogfights and carried out successful bombing runs on enemy targets. His courage and skill as a pilot were recognized by his comrades and superiors.

Osipenko's contributions to the Soviet Union's military efforts did not go unnoticed. He was awarded numerous honors and medals for his bravery and achievements, including the prestigious title of Hero of the Soviet Union.

Alexander Osipenko's legacy as a skilled and dedicated pilot lives on. His heroism and contributions to the Soviet Union's military efforts during the Spanish Civil War and beyond serve as an inspiration to future generations.