Shalva Kiriya
- Early Life and Military Career
- World War II Service
- Air Combat Exploits
- Heroic Deeds
- Post-War Career
- Legacy
Early Life and Military Career
Shio Nikolaevich Kiria was born on January 10, 1912, in the village of Tsayshi in Georgia. After completing six years of schooling, he worked in his village before moving to Baku. In 1930, he joined the Red Army and served as a private. In 1935, he graduated from the Orenburg Military Aviation School as a pilot and observer.
World War II Service
Kiria was sent to the Western Front as part of the 427th Bomber Aviation Regiment in July 1941. He flew several combat missions as a crew commander on the TB-3 and SB bombers. On August 28, his SB was shot down by German Messerschmitts, but the crew survived.
In February 1942, Kiria retrained as a fighter pilot in a reserve aviation regiment near Saratov. He returned to combat in May 1943 after graduating from officer training courses. He served in regiments of the 294th Fighter Aviation Division, rising to the rank of squadron commander and later navigator. He fought on the Voronezh, Steppe, and 2nd Ukrainian Fronts, liberating Ukraine, Moldova, Romania, Hungary, and Austria.
Air Combat Exploits
Kiria achieved his first aerial victory in June 1943, shooting down a Ju-88 bomber. On July 7, 1943, during the Battle of Kursk, he engaged in a fierce aerial battle that brought him fame. His Yak-7B was separated from his group by six Me-109s. Kiria outmaneuvered his pursuers and shot down the lead aircraft. He then engaged and destroyed two more Me-109s, despite being wounded and his fighter being set on fire.
Heroic Deeds
By June 1944, Kiria had flown 189 combat missions, including 95 bombing raids and 57 air battles. He had personally shot down 22 enemy aircraft and one in a group attack. On October 26, 1944, for his courage and bravery, he was awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union.
Post-War Career
After the war, Kiria continued to serve in the Air Force, commanding a regiment and a division. He retired in 1961 with the rank of Major General of Aviation. He lived and worked in Zugdidi before moving to Sochi later in life. Kiria wrote a book of memoirs about his wartime experiences, titled "The Sky Belongs to the Stars."
Legacy
Shio Nikolaevich Kiria was a distinguished fighter pilot who made significant contributions to the Soviet victory in World War II. His bravery, skill, and determination made him a legendary figure in the annals of aviation history.
