Leonid Belousov Fighter pilot Date of Birth: 03.03.1909 Country: Ukraine

Biography of Leonid Belousov

Leonid Georgievich Belousov was born on March 3, 1909, in Odessa, Ukraine. He grew up in a working-class family and graduated from the FZU School in 1925. After completing his education, he worked as a fitter and joined the Red Army in 1930.

Belousov's military career began with his graduation from the Odessa Military Infantry School in 1933 and the Borisoglebsk Military Aviation School for Pilots in 1935. He participated in the Soviet-Finnish War from 1939 to 1940 and then served on the front lines during the Great Patriotic War.

In December 1941, while carrying out a combat mission, Belousov suffered severe leg injuries, which resulted in the amputation of both legs. However, he did not let this setback hinder his determination to continue serving in the military. After recovering and learning to fly with prosthetic legs, he returned to his regiment in 1944.

Belousov's resilience and determination earned him the opportunity to fly as a pilot in the 4th Guards Fighter Aviation Regiment. He flew over 300 combat missions and personally shot down three enemy aircraft. On April 10, 1957, he was awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union for his courage and military prowess during the war.

After leaving active duty in 1945, Belousov worked in river transport and lived in Leningrad. He was decorated with numerous awards, including the Order of Lenin, Order of the Red Banner (twice), Order of the Patriotic War 1st Class (twice), and several medals. His name is commemorated by a memorial plaque on the building of the Janvarskogo Vosstaniya Plant in Odessa, and a school in St. Petersburg is named after him. He also authored a book titled "The Call of Duty."

Leonid Belousov passed away on May 7, 1998, leaving behind a legacy of bravery and determination in the face of adversity.