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Mihail KibkalovFighter pilot
Date of Birth: 15.01.1920
Country:  Ukraine |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Military Career
- World War II
- Recognition and Honors
- Post-War Service
- Decorations and Awards
Early Life and Education
Born on January 15, 1920, in the village of Moryanovka, Ukraine, Mikhail Moiseevich Kibkalov was raised in a farming family. After completing eight grades of secondary school, he enrolled in an electrical engineering college for one year and later joined an aviation club.
Military Career
In 1938, Kibkalov was drafted into the Red Army. He graduated from the Voroshilovgrad Military Aviation Pilot School in 1939 and the Stalingrad Aviation School the following year.
World War II
Kibkalov began his combat operations in December 1941, flying an I-16 fighter in the Crimea. He participated in the pivotal battles of the Kursk Bulge in the summer of 1943. As part of the 163rd Fighter Aviation Regiment, he established correspondence with collective farmers in the Toguchin District of Siberia, who generously donated several aircraft to the regiment.
By the end of the war, Kibkalov had flown 276 (or 306, according to some sources) combat sorties, engaged in 38 aerial battles, and shot down 17 enemy planes individually and six in collaboration with his comrades. Throughout this period, he flew various Yak aircraft, including the Yak-1, Yak-7, Yak-9, and Yak-3.
Recognition and Honors
On May 15, 1946, Kibkalov was awarded the esteemed title of Hero of the Soviet Union for his exceptional bravery and courage in combat.
Post-War Service
Following the war, Kibkalov continued his military service in the Air Force. He graduated from the Higher Flight-Tactical Courses for Officer Improvement in 1948. In 1970, he retired with the rank of Colonel.
Decorations and Awards
Kibkalov received numerous decorations and awards throughout his career, including the Order of Lenin, three Orders of the Red Banner, two Orders of the Patriotic War, the Order of the Red Star, and various medals.
