Leontij Iakovenko Bomber pilot, Hero of the Soviet Union, Heroes of the Soviet-Finnish war Date of Birth: 24.10.1909 Country: Ukraine

Biography of Leontiy Yakovenko

Leontiy Ignatyevich Yakovenko was a bomber pilot, a Hero of the Soviet Union, and a hero of the Soviet-Finnish war. He was awarded two Orders of Lenin, three Orders of the Red Banner, two Orders of the Patriotic War 1st Class, two Orders of the Red Star, and several medals.

Leontiy Yakovenko was born into a peasant family in Ukraine. He completed seven years of schooling and worked as a carpenter. He joined the Red Army in 1929 and became a member of the Communist Party in 1930. In 1932, he graduated from the Leningrad Military Theoretical School for Pilots, followed by the 14th Military School for Pilots in Engel's in 1933, and the Courses for Squadron Commanders in 1934.

He participated in the national liberation war in China from November 1937 to September 1938, where he flew an I-15 fighter and engaged in five air battles, including shooting down a Japanese I-96 fighter. He was awarded the Order of the Red Banner for his achievements.

During the Soviet-Finnish war, Yakovenko served as the military commissar of the 68th separate fighter aviation regiment of the Air Force of the 13th Army of the Northwestern Front. By March 1940, he had completed 64 combat sorties for reconnaissance and assault against enemy forces.

In one instance, Yakovenko led his squadron to provide cover for bomber planes. He fearlessly pursued the bombers, ensuring their safety. He was known for his physical fitness, tireless work ethic, and strong leadership. He had an excellent knowledge of all the pilots and technical personnel. Despite his stern appearance, he was easygoing and calm both on the ground and in the air.

Yakovenko also demonstrated his fairness and determination in dealing with disciplinary matters. When a pilot, Romanov, made mistakes, Yakovenko offered support and guidance rather than punishment. This approach allowed Romanov to improve and become a better pilot.

During the war, Yakovenko's regiment carried out reconnaissance missions behind enemy lines, provided cover for ground forces, and engaged in aerial combat with enemy fighters. They played a crucial role in turning the tide of battles against the Finnish troops. Yakovenko himself displayed exceptional bravery and skill when he dived into enemy positions and unleashed the firepower of his machine guns.

On April 7, 1940, Yakovenko was awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union for his outstanding contributions during the Soviet-Finnish war.

In November 1941, Yakovenko continued his military service in the Great Patriotic War. He served as a military commissar in the Air Force of the 46th Army and later became the deputy commander of the Air Force of the Transcaucasian Front in the political department.

On July 11, 1945, he was promoted to the rank of Major General of Aviation. In 1948, he completed retraining courses for political officers at the Military-Political Academy, followed by the General Staff Academy in 1954. He retired in 1967.

After retiring, Yakovenko worked as a lecturer at the Voronezh Agricultural Institute. Later, he settled in the village of Mamontovka, Moscow Region.

Leontiy Yakovenko passed away in Mamontovka and was laid to rest there.