Stepan Suprun Fighter pilot, Heroes of the People's Liberation War in China Date of Birth: 02.08.1907 Country: Ukraine

1. Biography of Stepan Suprun
2. A Heroic Act
3. Challenges and Accusations
4. Contributions to Aviation
5. War in China
6. Visiting Germany
7. Legacy

Biography of Stepan Suprun

Stepan Suprun was a fighter pilot and a hero of the Soviet Union. He was born into a peasant family in Ukraine. In 1913, his family emigrated to Canada, where he lived in Winnipeg. After returning to the Soviet Union in 1924, he settled in Belopole, Ukraine. Suprun worked as an apprentice in a carriage workshop before becoming a carpenter in a committee for combatting unemployment. In 1928, he joined the Sumy Machine-Building Plant and later became a pioneer leader. Suprun joined the Red Army in 1929 and became a member of the Communist Party in 1930. He graduated from aviation school and later served as the commander of an aviation squadron.

A Heroic Act

During a training session, Suprun witnessed a pilot struggling to control his plane after becoming entangled in a towing cable. Suprun risked his own life and intervened, managing to free the plane and prevent a catastrophe. This act of bravery was recognized and praised.

Challenges and Accusations

Suprun faced challenges and accusations throughout his career. He was wrongly accused of having connections with an enemy of the state and was unjustly sentenced to prison. However, due to the intervention of others, including his fellow pilot, he was later reinstated in the party.

Contributions to Aviation

Suprun's expertise and commitment to aviation were widely recognized. He was appointed as a test pilot at the Air Force Research Institute in 1933. Suprun played a significant role in the testing of new aircraft, including the I-180 fighter plane. His dedication and professionalism led to the successful completion of various test flights.

War in China

In 1939, Suprun volunteered to participate in the national liberation war in China, where he fought against Japanese invaders. He personally shot down six enemy aircraft during his time in China. He displayed exceptional leadership skills and made significant contributions to the defense of the city of Chongqing.

Visiting Germany

In 1940, Suprun traveled to Germany as part of a delegation to evaluate German aviation technology. He was given the opportunity to fly the Heinkel He.100, a high-speed fighter plane. Despite initial reservations, Suprun's expertise impressed the representatives of the Heinkel company, and he was permitted to fly the aircraft.

Legacy

Stepan Suprun's courage, skill, and dedication to aviation made him one of the most respected pilots of his time. His contributions to the Soviet Union's defense during World War II and his heroic acts continue to be remembered and honored. He will always be remembered as a true hero.