Chernikh, Sergei Aleksandrovich
From OnAirpower.org
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[edit] Biography
Chernikh entered the Stalingrad Military Pilot's School in December, 1930, and graduated in 1933[1].
Chernikh served in the Spanish Civil War as a fighter pilot, and shot down three enemy aircraft. He received the title Hero of the Soviet Union on December 31, 1936[1].
Between 1937-1938 he served as a squadron commander, followed by a range of command positions including commander of the 83rd Aviation Brigade, Deputy Commander of Air Forces in the Independent Red Banner Army in the Soviet Far East, and Deputy Commander of Air Forces in the Odessa Military District[1].
On June 4, 1940 at the age of 28, Chernikh was promoted to the rank of Major General[1].
Beginning in August, 1940 he commanded the 9th Mixed Aviation Division[1].
He was arrested on July 8, 1941 and executed on October 16, 1941[1].
