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Mary AvidzbaThe first female pilot of Abkhazia
Date of Birth: 01.01.1917
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Content:
Meri Avidzba: A Trailblazing Aviator and War Hero
Early Life and TrainingMeri Avidzba was born in Abkhazia in 1917. Her passion for aviation ignited at the Sukhumi Aeroclub, where she received guidance from her mentor, Viktor Argun. She later enrolled in the Bataysk Flight School to refine her skills.
Military Career
With the outbreak of World War II, Avidzba joined the Red Army as a volunteer. After training at a fighter aviation school in Perm, she joined the 46th Guards Light Bombardment Night Aviation Regiment of the 4th Air Army.
Avidzba served on the North Caucasian, 4th Ukrainian, and 2nd Belorussian fronts. She played a crucial role in defending the Caucasus, liberating Crimea, Belarus, and Poland, and crushing the enemy in Germany. In 1944, she transferred to the 634th Night Bombardment Aviation Regiment.
During the war, Avidzba conducted 477 combat sorties, dropping 63,000 kilograms of explosives on enemy forces. Her courage and skill earned her numerous decorations, including two Orders of the Patriotic War, 1st Degree, and the Order of the Patriotic War, 2nd Degree.
Post-War Life
After the war, Avidzba suffered from a post-war injury that paralyzed her for seven years. However, she underwent a successful surgery and was able to regain mobility.
Despite her physical challenges, Avidzba remained an active member of her community. She was elected to the Supreme Soviet of Abkhazia and served as chairperson of the Parents' Committee at the Sukhumi Abkhazian Secondary School No. 10. She dedicated herself to patriotic education and promoting the heroic legacy of Soviet aviation.
Legacy
Meri Avidzba passed away in 1986, leaving behind a remarkable legacy as the first female pilot from Abkhazia. Her courage, patriotism, and unwavering spirit continue to inspire generations of young people. She received numerous awards for her contributions to youth education, including the Honorary Diploma of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of Abkhazia and gratitude letters from the Ministry of Education of the republic.
