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Sergey MatsilevColonel.
Date of Birth: 10.03.1893
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Content:
- Early Life and Military Career
- Russian Civil War and White Army
- Exile and Resistance
- Mystery of General Miller's Disappearance
- Investigation and Aftermath
- Post-World War II Activities
- Legacy and Final Resting Place
Early Life and Military Career
Born in Russia, the young officer Boris Matsilev embarked on a distinguished military career. After graduating from the Alexander Military School in 1913, he joined the 1st Sapper Battalion. During World War I, he emerged as a valiant warrior and earned the prestigious Order of St. George for his bravery. By 1917, he rose to the rank of Captain and commanded a battalion.
Russian Civil War and White Army
In 1918, Matsilev joined the White Army in the fight against the Bolshevik regime. He served in the Partisan Regiment under General Bogayevsky, which was later renamed the Alexeyevsky Infantry Regiment. Matsilev fought valiantly in this unit until the evacuation of the White Army in November 1920. For his combat achievements, he was promoted to the rank of Colonel.
Exile and Resistance
Following the White Army's defeat, Matsilev relocated to France and settled in Paris. In 1929, he became associated with the magazine "Chasovoy," serving as its editor and the head of its Parisian bureau. In 1934, he assumed the role of Assistant Chief of the Russian All-Military Union (ROVS).
Mystery of General Miller's Disappearance
On September 22, 1937, General Miller of the ROVS vanished. As his absence became apparent, Colonel Matsilev was tasked with locating and bringing General Skoblin to the ROVS headquarters. In his "Explanation," Matsilev clarified that Skoblin was not detained on suspicion of treachery but rather to ascertain the whereabouts of General Miller based on a note left behind.
Investigation and Aftermath
An investigation into General Miller's disappearance led to the publication of ROVS Order No. 5 on March 1, 1938. The order acknowledged the pivotal role played by Skoblin's escape in hindering the resolution of the mystery. It also recognized the responsibility of General Kusonsky for the delay in examining the note left by General Miller. Colonel Matsilev continued to serve as Assistant Chief to Generals Vitkovsky and von Lampe.
Post-World War II Activities
After World War II, Matsilev became the head of the Russian All-Military Union in Paris. He also led the Committee for Aid to Elderly Warriors and the Association of the Alexeyevsky Infantry Regiment.
Legacy and Final Resting Place
Colonel Boris Matsilev passed away in Paris on November 8, 1954. He was laid to rest at the Russian Cemetery in Sainte-Geneviève-des-Bois, where he remains a symbol of bravery and sacrifice.






