Anton Gubenko Fighter pilot, Heroes of the People's Liberation War in China Date of Birth: 12.02.1908 Country: Ukraine

Biography of Anton Gubenko

Anton Gubenko was a Soviet fighter pilot and a Hero of the Soviet Union. He was born in a peasant family and grew up in Mariupol, Russia. Gubenko completed his primary and secondary education in Mariupol and then worked as an apprentice locksmith. In May 1927, he volunteered for the Red Army and joined the Soviet Air Force.

Gubenko graduated from the Leningrad Military Theoretical School of Pilots in 1928 and the 1st Military School of Pilots named after Comrade Myasnikov in Kacha in 1929. He was known for his exceptional flying skills and his love for aviation. Gubenko served in the fighter aviation on the Far East and became an instructor for parachute landing service. He was highly skilled in aerial combat and was able to land his damaged aircraft safely after an accident.

In 1934, Gubenko became the commander of the 116th Fighter Aviation Squadron of the Moscow Military District. He was known for his bravery and skill in combat, and he led his squadron to victory in various competitions. Gubenko was involved in the national-liberation war in China from March to August 1938, where he fought in the Nanjing Fighter Group. He flew 7 combat missions and personally shot down 7 Japanese aircraft, including one through ramming. Gubenko was awarded the Order of the Red Banner and the Golden Order of the Chinese Republic for his achievements.

After his return from China, Gubenko was promoted to the rank of colonel and was appointed as the deputy commander of the Air Force of the Belarusian Military District. He actively participated in the reorganization and training of aviation units in the district. Gubenko was highly respected by his comrades and was known for his courage and leadership qualities.

On February 22, 1939, Gubenko was awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union for his outstanding achievements in combat and his contributions to the development of the Soviet Air Force. He continued to serve in the military and was preparing to enter the Zhukovsky Air Force Academy. However, his career was cut short when he died in an accident on December 15, 1939, while participating in the funeral of Valery Chkalov, a famous Soviet aviator.

Anton Gubenko was remembered as a courageous and skilled pilot, who made significant contributions to the Soviet Air Force and the national liberation war in China. His name lives on through schools and memorials dedicated to his memory in Mariupol and Smolensk.