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Matvey ZotovNavigator of the 427th Fighter Aviation Regiment, Major, Hero of the Soviet Union
Date of Birth: 29.11.1914
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Content:
- Early Life
- Military Career
- World War II
- Heroic Feat
- Post-War Service
- Military Education
- Retirement and Later Life
Early Life
Childhood and EducationMikhail Ivanovich Zotov was born on November 29, 1914, in the village of Klekotki, Russian Empire. He completed eight years of schooling and attended a vocational school.
Military Career
Joining the Red Army and Flight TrainingZotov joined the Red Army in 1935 and graduated from the Odessa Military Aviation School in 1937.
World War II
During World War II, Zotov served on various fronts, including the North-Western, Volkhov, Western, South-Western, Voronezh, and 1st Ukrainian Fronts. He flew various aircraft types, including the I-153, La-5, and Yak series. By July 1943, he had flown 163 combat missions and shot down 13 enemy aircraft.
Heroic Feat
On July 17, 1943, Zotov performed an exceptional act of heroism. In a single battle, he shot down three enemy aircraft: two Me-109s and a Ju-88. For this achievement, he was awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union on September 28, 1943.
Post-War Service
Air Force CommandAfter the war, Zotov continued to serve in the Air Force, commanding the 149th Guards Fighter Aviation Regiment. In 1947, he became the commander of the 151st Guards Fighter Aviation Division.
Military Education
In 1953, Zotov graduated from the Military Academy of the General Staff.
Retirement and Later Life
Major General of Aviation Mikhail Ivanovich Zotov retired from active service in 1960. He remained active in public life and resided in Moscow until his passing on September 2, 1970. He was buried at the Golovinskoye Cemetery in Moscow.
