Petr Pumpur Fighter pilot, Heroes of the National Revolutionary War in Spain Date of Birth: 25.04.1900 Country: Latvia

Biography of Petr Pumpur

Petr Pumpur was a Latvian fighter pilot who fought in the Spanish Civil War and was awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union. He was born into a peasant family and had a modest upbringing. Pumpur completed his education at a church school and a vocational school before working as an apprentice mechanic and assistant driver.

In 1918, Pumpur volunteered to join the Red Army and participated in the Russian Civil War. He served as a motorist in the 4th fighter aviation detachment and fought on the Eastern and Western fronts. Pumpur became a member of the Russian Communist Party in 1919.

In the 1920s, Pumpur received further military training and graduated from several aviation schools. He served in the Dzerzhinsky 2nd fighter squadron and eventually became a flight leader. Pumpur continued his education at the Zhukovsky Military Air Academy and the Serpukhov Higher School of Aerial Shooting and Bombing.

In 1929, Pumpur graduated from the Higher Command Courses at the Zhukovsky Military Air Academy. He then commanded a separate aviation squadron and a fighter squadron. In June 1934, Pumpur was appointed as the commander-commissar of the 403rd fighter aviation brigade.

Pumpur participated in the National Revolutionary War in Spain from October 1936 to May 1937. He commanded three squadrons of I-16 and I-15 fighter aircraft and played a crucial role in the air battles. Pumpur was known for his bravery and skill in aerial combat.

After returning from Spain, Pumpur held various command positions in the Soviet Air Force. He served as the commander of the Moscow Military District Air Force and the Far Eastern Red Banner Army Air Force. Pumpur was also elected as a deputy to the Supreme Soviet of the USSR.

In 1940-1941, Pumpur was the commander of the Moscow Military District Air Force. However, his tenure was marred by low combat readiness and accidents due to poor organization. He was eventually relieved of his command and faced criticism for his performance.

On May 10, 1941, Pumpur was reprimanded for his role in allowing a German aircraft to pass through Soviet airspace without interception. Despite being removed from his command, Pumpur was later arrested on May 31, 1941. He was accused of participating in an anti-Soviet conspiracy and giving damaging testimony against himself.

Pumpur was sentenced to death on February 13, 1942, and executed on March 23, 1942, in Saratov. However, he was posthumously rehabilitated on June 25, 1955, clearing his name of any wrongdoing.