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Petr KalitinRussian general, participant in the Turkestan campaigns and the First World War
Date of Birth: 11.11.1853
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Content:
- Childhood and Early Military Career
- Early Military Service
- Conquest of Central Asia
- Ahal-Tekke Expedition
- Continued Service in the Caucasus
- Cavalry Commands
- Commander of the 1st Caucasian Army Corps
- St. George's Cross
- Later Life
- Death and Legacy
Childhood and Early Military Career
Early Life and EducationIvan Petrovich Kalitin was born on October 30, 1853, in Narva, Russia. He was the brother of Pavel Petrovich Kalitin. Kalitin initially studied at the Nizhny Novgorod Cadet Corps, but was expelled in the fifth grade due to disciplinary issues.
Early Military Service
In 1871, Kalitin enlisted as a volunteer in the 1st Turkestan Rifle Battalion, where his older brother commanded the 2nd company. He participated in the Khiva Campaign in 1873, earning the Badge of Military Order for his service. In 1874, he was promoted to Ensign.
Conquest of Central Asia
Kokand KhanateFrom 1875 to 1876, Kalitin participated in the conquest of the Kokand Khanate as part of General Trotsky's force. He was awarded the rank of Sub-Lieutenant and decorated with several orders.
Ahal-Tekke Expedition
In 1880-1881, Kalitin served in the Ahal-Teke Expedition under the command of General Kuropatkin. During the storming of Geok-Tepe, he was wounded and promoted to Staff Captain. He was also awarded several orders, including the Order of St. George, 4th degree.
Continued Service in the Caucasus
Turkomen Horse MilitiaIn 1885, Kalitin was assigned to the Caucasian Military District and became the head of the Turkmen Horse Militia. He was promoted to Lieutenant Colonel in 1890.
Cavalry Commands
In 1893, Kalitin was appointed commander of the Turkmen Irregular Cavalry Squadron. In 1895, he was promoted to Colonel. In 1899, he was given command of the 1st Volga Regiment of the Terek Cossack Army.
Commander of the 1st Caucasian Army Corps
World War IWith the outbreak of World War I, Kalitin was appointed commander of the 1st Caucasian Army Corps in 1915. He was promoted to General of the Cavalry on March 22, 1915, and awarded the Order of St. George, 3rd degree in May 1915, for his leadership during the Battle of Erzerum.
St. George's Cross
In 1916, Kalitin received the St. George's Cross with diamonds for his bravery during the storming of the Erzerum fortress. In 1917, he was appointed a member of the Alexander Committee for the Wounded.
Later Life
Civil War and EmigrationDuring the Russian Civil War, Kalitin initially joined the forces of General Denikin, then later transferred to General Wrangel's command. After the evacuation of Crimea, he emigrated to Yugoslavia and later moved to France. In France, he worked as a manual laborer in an automobile factory.
Death and Legacy
Kalitin died in Paris on June 6, 1927, and was buried in the Sainte-Geneviève-des-Bois Cemetery. He was the chairman of the Union of St. George Knights.
