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Yanis VilhelmsSniper, Hero of the Soviet Union
Date of Birth: 10.11.1903
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Content:
- Birth and Family
- Military Service
- Leadership and Achievements
- Post-War Life
- Death and Legacy
- Noteworthy Accomplishments
- - Destroyed a tank in battle.
Birth and Family
Born Janis Voldemarovich Vilhelms on November 10, 1903, in the village of Adazhi, Latvia, to a working-class family. He completed his secondary education and worked in the police force in Riga, Latvia.
Military Service
1941:Drafted into the Red Army.1941:Completed courses for junior lieutenants.
1941-1945:Participated in the Great Patriotic War.
Sniper and Heroics
February-April 1942:As a commander in the 92nd Rifle Regiment of the 201st Latvian Rifle Division, Vilhelms single-handedly eliminated 116 enemy soldiers and officerswith his sniper rifle.
July 21, 1942:Awarded the title Hero of the Soviet Unionfor his valor in combat.
Leadership and Achievements
1942:Promoted to company commander.1942:Successfully commanded his company in battles near the city of Demyansk, Novgorod Oblast.
Total Destroyed:Approximately 150 enemy soldiers and officerswith his sniper rifle.
Post-War Life
After the war, Vilhelms retired as a Major. He returned to Riga and worked in various Soviet positions. He was awarded the Order of Lenin, Order of the Patriotic War 1st Degree, and numerous medals, including a foreign order.
Death and Legacy
December 22, 1990:Vilhelms passed away.During his lifetime, his exploits as a sniper and commander earned him widespread recognition. He played a pivotal role in promoting the sniper movement within the 201st Latvian Rifle Division.
Noteworthy Accomplishments
- Initiated the sniper movement within the 201st Latvian Rifle Division.
- Became an acclaimed sniper with over 100 confirmed kills by May 1942.
- Destroyed a tank in battle.
- Coordinated sniper squads that targeted enemy encampments, water sources, and patrols.
- Met with Joseph Stalin in the Kremlin, where he was commended for his bravery and initiative.
- His heroism inspired the Red Army to adopt sniper training and tactics more widely.
