Fedor Zanko
BelarusFedor Petrovich Zanko: A Wartime Hero
Early Life and EducationFedor Petrovich Zanko was born on July 19, 1921, in the village of Zanki, Lepel district, Vitebsk region, Belarusian SSR. He received a four-year education before working as a blacksmith on a collective farm.
Military Service
Induction and TrainingZanko was drafted into the Red Army in May 1940. In 1941, he completed regimental school at the 139th Rifle Regiment (41st Rifle Division, Western Front).
Combat Duty
Zanko served in active duty from July 1941. In September 1942, during the Battle of Stalingrad, he was promoted to junior commander. As the commander of a reconnaissance platoon, Zanko captured valuable German documents near the "Tatinskaya" station, earning him the Order of the Red Star. After being wounded in battle, Zanko recovered in hospital and attended an air gunnery school, graduating in May 1943.
Air Combat and Honors
From April 24 to August 4, 1944, Zanko flew 27 successful bombing missions over Orsha, Borisov, Minsk, Alytus, Kaunas, and other cities. He shot down three enemy fighters and was awarded the Order of Glory, 3rd degree.
From August 4 to October 30, 1944, Zanko flew 22 more missions, repelling seven attacks by German fighters, suppressing anti-aircraft guns, and destroying a vehicle. He received the Order of Glory, 2nd degree.
From November 1, 1944, to March 3, 1945, Zanko flew 24 more missions over Gumbinnen and Insterburg. On April 19, 1945, he was awarded the Order of Glory, 1st degree, becoming a full Cavalier of the Order of Glory.
Postwar Years
Zanko flew a total of 234 successful combat missions during the Great Patriotic War, inflicting significant damage on the enemy. He joined the Communist Party in 1945. After demobilization in 1946, he returned to his hometown and worked as a blacksmith. Zanko passed away on May 9, 1979.
