 |
Vasiliy KniznikDeputy Squadron Commander of the 65th Assault Aviation Regiment
Country:
 Ukraine |
Content:
Early Life and Military Career
Vasili Averkiyevich Knizhnik was born in 1918 in Kyiv, Ukraine. Inspired by aviation, he became a stormtrooper pilot and joined the Great Patriotic War.
Combat Achievements
Knizhnik served as deputy squadron commander in the 65th Assault Aviation Regiment. During the war, he participated in numerous combat sorties, successfully completing 203 of them. His aerial skills were exceptional, as evidenced by his destruction of 5 enemy aircraft in air battles and an impressive 54 on the ground.
Heroic Action
On February 24, 1942, Knizhnik flew in a group of I-153 fighter-bombers to attack enemy forces at the front line. However, their mission was intercepted by Finnish Brewster B-239 "Buffalo" fighters. Amidst the chaos, Knizhnik fearlessly collided with an enemy plane, protecting the lead aircraft. Despite sustaining damage, he managed to return to his airfield and land safely. This act of bravery earned him the Order of Lenin.
Liberation and Post-War Life
Knizhnik continued to fight valiantly throughout the war, contributing to the liberation of Belarus and the Baltics. After Victory Day, he retired from military service and settled in Kyiv. Knizhnik dedicated his life to aviation, becoming an instructor at the Kyiv Aeroclub, where he shared his knowledge and passion for flying with aspiring pilots.
