Smushkevich Yakov

Smushkevich Yakov Vladimirovich (1.4.1902, place Rakishki Novoaleksandrovskom County Kovno province - 28/10/1941, Kuibyshev), pilot. Lieutenant General of Aviation (1940), twice Hero of the Soviet Union (21/6/1937, 1939). Educated in Kachin Military Pilot School (1932), for refresher courses nachsostava at the Frunze Military Academy (1937). In 1918 joined the RKP (b) and the Red Army. Member of the Civil War, the political instructor company, battalion, regiment commander. Since 1922 he served in the Air Force: Commissioner Squadron. Since 1932 the commander and commissar of the aviation brigade. In 1936-37 participated in the Spanish Civil War, led the defense of Madrid. He became famous as the "General Douglas". Since 1937 Deputy. early. Red Army Air Force. During the fighting with Japanese troops on Khalkhin-Gol in 1939 commanded Air Group. Since 1937 member of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR. In 1939 a candidate member of the CC, CPSU (b). On Nov.. Early 1939. Red Army Air Force. Since 1940 the inspector general of the Air Force in December. 1940 POM. early. Red Army General Staff for Aviation. 8/6/1941 arrested at the hospital, where he was after a major operation. Executed without trial under the personal direction of L. P. Beria. In 1954, rehabilitated.