Petr Kozhanov Fighter pilot Country: Ukraine

Biography of Petr Kozhanov

Petr Petrovich Kozhanov was a fighter pilot and a senior lieutenant in the Soviet Union during World War II. He was born in 1917 in the village of Klinovets in the Belgorod region, which is now part of the Korochansky District. After moving to Moscow in 1933, Kozhanov worked as a bricklayer. In 1937, he joined the Naval Aviation of the Red Army.

Kozhanov graduated from the Chuguev Military Aviation School and served on the frontlines of the Great Patriotic War from its beginning. He was a fighter pilot, a squadron leader, a political officer, and a commander of a squadron. He participated in the defense of Leningrad and by June 1942, he became the military commissar of the 4th Guards Fighter Aviation Regiment. Throughout his military career, Kozhanov flew 386 combat missions, conducted 59 ground attacks, engaged in 59 aerial battles, and personally shot down 5 enemy planes and 3 more as part of a group. He also saved the lives of two comrades during a battle.

On October 23, 1942, Kozhanov was awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union for his bravery and military valor in combat against the enemy. He was also decorated with the Orders of Lenin and the Red Star. However, his life was tragically cut short on April 22, 1944, when he died in aerial combat. By that time, he had completed over 500 combat missions and personally shot down 9 enemy planes, and 4 more as part of a group.

Kozhanov was buried in the town of Lebyazhye in the Lomonosovsky District of the Leningrad region. His heroic actions and military career were commemorated in the book "Ahead of the Commissar" by V.F. Golubev, Hero of the Soviet Union.

Known as a fearless fighter and the favorite of his fellow pilots, Kozhanov was always at the forefront of battle, inspiring his comrades with his example. Despite the challenges and dangers he faced as a pilot, he never lost sight of his duty and was dedicated to defending his homeland. His biography is a testament to his courage, skill, and unwavering commitment to the Soviet Union.