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Astan KesaevSubmariner, Hero of the Soviet Union
Date of Birth: 11.09.1914
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Content:
- Early Life and Naval Career
- World War II Service
- Recognition and Honors
- Post-War Career
- Retirement and Legacy
Early Life and Naval Career
Astamur Nikolaevich Kesaev was born on September 11, 1914, in the village of Digora in the Russian Republic of North Ossetia-Alania. After graduating from high school, he attended a workers' preparatory department in Moscow. In 1933, he enlisted in the Soviet Navy.
In 1937, Kesaev graduated from the M.V. Frunze Naval School and served on the Black Sea Fleet. He was the commander of the navigational combat unit (BC-1) on the submarine "A-3" from 1937 to 1939. Subsequently, he became assistant commander of the submarine "Shch-206" in 1940 and commander of the submarine "M-117" in 1941.
World War II Service
During World War II, Kesaev commanded the submarine "M-117" in the Black Sea Fleet. The submarine patrolled enemy communications, disrupted troop and cargo shipments between Crimea and other Black Sea ports, and facilitated the evacuation of Soviet troops.
Under Kesaev's leadership, "M-117" launched numerous successful attacks on enemy vessels. Despite being repeatedly targeted by bombs and airstrikes, the submarine managed to evade damage through Kesaev's skillful maneuvering and tactical acumen.
Recognition and Honors
For his exceptional bravery and command skills, Kesaev was awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union on May 31, 1944. His submarine, "M-117," was decorated with the Order of the Red Banner in July 1944.
Post-War Career
After the liberation of Crimea, Kesaev served as acting commander of the Sochi Raid Guard and senior naval chief of the city from 1945 to 1947. Subsequently, he held various positions in the Black Sea Fleet, including commander of the Pitsunda Raid Guard and senior officer of the Service Organization Department.
In 1953, Kesaev graduated from the K.E. Voroshilov Naval Academy. He served as head of the department at the 2nd Higher Naval School for Submarine Navigation from 1953 to 1958. From 1958 to 1970, he was head of the department at the Sevastopol Higher Naval Engineering School.
Retirement and Legacy
Kesaev retired from the Soviet Navy with the rank of Captain 1st Rank in June 1970 and settled in Sevastopol. He passed away on January 16, 1977, and was buried in the Kommunarov Cemetery in Sevastopol.
Kesaev's legacy as a valiant submarine commander and a skilled tactician continues to inspire generations of naval personnel. His service and heroism during World War II remain a testament to the courage and dedication of the Soviet Navy.
