Ivan Pidtykan
UkraineBiography of Ivan Pidtykan
Early Life and CareerIvan D. Pidtykan was born on April 14, 1918, in the village of Andreevka, now part of the Kuybyshevsky District, Zaporizhia Oblast, in a peasant family. He graduated from a pedagogical school and worked as a primary school teacher. In 1937, he joined the Red Army and in 1940, he graduated from the Chuguev Military Aviation School.
World War II
In June 1941, Pidtykan was deployed to the front lines and fought as part of the 195th Aviation Regiment. On September 10, 1941, he shot down 2 enemy aircraft. He later fought in the 26th and 123rd Aviation Regiments, defending Leningrad. By the spring of 1942, he became the commander of a unit in the 123rd Fighter Aviation Regiment.
Heroic Actions and Death
As the commander of his unit, Ivan Pidtykan conducted 217 combat sorties and engaged in 58 aerial battles, personally shooting down 11 enemy aircraft and contributing to the destruction of 5 more as part of a group. On June 6, 1942, for his courage and military valor demonstrated in combat, he was awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union.
On August 2, 1942, Pidtykan tragically died in battle while providing cover for infantry units. He was posthumously awarded the Orders of Lenin and the Red Banner, as well as a medal for his bravery. He was buried in the village of Krasny Bor, Tosnensky District, Leningrad Oblast. A bust in his honor was erected in the Alley of Glory in the village of Kuybyshevo, Zaporizhia Oblast.
Legacy
Ivan Pidtykan was widely recognized for his bravery and skill as a pilot. Numerous articles were written about him in various newspapers, highlighting his achievements and contributions to the war effort. His actions in the air battles were often praised for their audacity and effectiveness against superior enemy forces.
Pidtykan's heroic exploits and dedication to defending Leningrad earned him the respect and admiration of his comrades. His exceptional combat record and the recognition he received as a Hero of the Soviet Union cemented his place in history as an outstanding pilot and a symbol of courage and selflessness.
Even after his death, Pidtykan's legacy lives on, with his name and accomplishments forever remembered and honored by his comrades, as well as through the memorial bust erected in his hometown. Ivan D. Pidtykan remains a symbol of bravery and sacrifice in the fight against fascism during World War II.
