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Viktor BashkirovFighter pilot
Date of Birth: 27.11.1920
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Early Life and Education
Viktor Andreevich Bashkirov was born on November 27, 1920, in the village of Orgtrud, now part of the Vladimir Oblast. He attended school until junior high before beginning work as a turner at the Vladimir "Avtopribor" factory.
Military Career
In 1938, Bashkirov enrolled in the Workers' Faculty and joined the aviation club. He officially joined the Red Army in 1940 and graduated from the Stalingrad Military Aviation School in May 1941.
World War II
Bashkirov saw action in the Great Patriotic War from September 1941. He had a notable performance on May 22, 1943, during the Battle of Kursk. That day, he encountered and engaged three enemy bombers and shot down one in a dogfight. He later received credit for 3 additional bomber kills and one fighter kill during that same engagement.
Overall, by December 1943, Bashkirov had flown 233 combat missions and engaged in 31 aerial battles. He achieved 14 enemy aircraft kills. On February 4, 1944, he was awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union for his bravery and valor in battle.
Post-War Career
After the war, Bashkirov continued to serve in the Soviet Air Force. He retired in 1960 with the rank of Colonel and settled in Chernihiv, Ukraine. He then served as deputy chairman of the Chernihiv Regional Committee of DOSAAF and actively participated in public work aimed at fostering youth on the war traditions of the Great Patriotic War.
Awards and Honors
Bashkirov's military service earned him numerous awards, including:- Order of Lenin
- Order of the Red Banner (three times)
- Order of Alexander Nevsky
- Order of the Patriotic War, 1st and 2nd class
- Order of the Red Star (twice)
- Numerous medals
Death and Legacy
Viktor Andreevich Bashkirov passed away on July 27, 1991, leaving behind a legacy as a decorated war hero and respected public figure.
