Nikolay Onopchenko Fighter pilot Date of Birth: 03.10.1920 Country: Russia

1. Early Life and Education
2. Military Career
3. Distinguished Combat Record
4. Heroic Actions in Crimea
5. Post-War Service and Recognition
6. Legacy

Early Life and Education

Nikolai Markovich Onopchenko was born on October 3, 1920, in the village of Manyly, now part of the Valkovsky district in the Kharkiv region of Ukraine. He was the son of a peasant. Onopchenko completed nine grades of education and attended an aero club.

Military Career

Onopchenko joined the Red Army in 1940 and graduated from the Chuguev Military Aviation School of Pilots in 1942. He began fighting on the fronts of the Great Patriotic War from July 1942.

Distinguished Combat Record

Onopchenko served as the commander of a squadron in the 163rd Guards Fighter Aviation Regiment. By May 1945, he had flown 642 successful combat missions, including 446 reconnaissance flights. In 87 aerial battles, he personally shot down 14 enemy aircraft and destroyed one on the ground.

Heroic Actions in Crimea

Onopchenko distinguished himself particularly in the battles for Crimea. Notably, on May 9, 1944, he shot down the last enemy aircraft he would claim during the war. Leading a squadron of six fighters, he intercepted a group of enemy bombers targeting Soviet troops. In the ensuing aerial battle, he and his comrades shot down five enemy aircraft, forcing the remaining bombers to retreat.

Post-War Service and Recognition

Following the war, Onopchenko continued to serve in the Air Force. He graduated from the Higher Flight and Tactical Courses for Officer Improvement in 1948. By 1959, he had retired from active duty with the rank of Colonel. Onopchenko lived in the city of Stupino in the Moscow region. He was awarded numerous decorations, including the Order of Lenin, Order of the Red Banner (three times), Order of Alexander Nevsky, Order of the Patriotic War 1st Class (twice), and Order of the Red Star (twice). He was also named an Honorary Citizen of Sevastopol.

Legacy

Nikolai Markovich Onopchenko emerged from the war as a legendary fighter pilot. His bravery, skill, and determination made him a respected figure within the 163rd Guards Aviation Regiment. His name stands as a testament to the courage and sacrifice of Soviet soldiers who fought against Nazi Germany.