Births on May 7

Viktor Puskar, Estonian colonel (d. 1943)

Viktor Puskar (7 May [O.S. 25 April] 1889 in Viljandi – 12 April 1943 in Tartu) was a distinguished Estonian military commander, best known for his pivotal role as a Colonel during the Estonian War of Independence. His valor and leadership were recognized with the esteemed Cross of Liberty, 1st Class, 1st Grade (VR I/1), Estonia's highest military decoration.

Early Life and Formative Military Training

Born in Viljandi, then part of the Russian Empire, Viktor Puskar pursued a career in the military, a common path for ambitious young men of the era. He honed his skills and leadership potential at the prestigious Vilnius Military Academy, from which he graduated in 1911. This institution, located in what is now Lithuania, was a significant training ground for officers within the Imperial Russian Army, providing him with a robust foundation for his future commands.

World War I and the Emergence of Estonian National Units

Puskar's military career advanced during the tumultuous years of World War I. He actively participated in the conflict, gaining valuable experience on various fronts. As the Russian Empire began to unravel in 1917 following the February Revolution, a powerful desire for national self-determination swept through Estonia. In response, Estonian national units were formed, composed of Estonian soldiers serving in the Russian army who wished to organize their own defense and assert their distinct national identity. Puskar joined these nascent forces, aligning himself with the burgeoning movement for Estonian autonomy and eventual independence.

The Estonian War of Independence: A Commander's Legacy

The dawn of the Estonian War of Independence in 1918 saw Puskar quickly rise through the ranks, demonstrating exceptional leadership qualities. Initially, he took charge of the Järvamaa Defence League, a vital local volunteer self-defense organization that played a crucial role in mobilizing resistance against the invading Red Army. His strategic acumen was soon recognized, leading to his appointment as commander of the 2nd Division in December 1918, a critical command during the war's most intense phase.

Under his leadership, the 2nd Division achieved significant successes that were instrumental in securing Estonia's independence:

• Defense of South Estonia: Puskar successfully orchestrated the defense of southern Estonia, safeguarding vital territories and preventing further Soviet advances.
• Expulsion from North Latvia: Demonstrating an offensive spirit, his forces advanced beyond Estonia's borders, pushing the Red Army out of northern Latvia, a crucial move that relieved pressure on the newly formed Estonian state and aided its Latvian neighbors.
• Capture of Pskov: One of his most notable military achievements was the capture of Pskov, a strategically important city located in Russia, close to the Estonian border. This bold offensive dealt a significant blow to the Bolshevik forces and further solidified Estonia's defensive posture.

Post-War Life and Political Involvement

With the conclusion of the War of Independence in 1920 and Estonia's hard-won sovereignty, Viktor Puskar chose to transition from military life. He retired from active service, having attained the rank of Colonel, and embraced a civilian career as a farmer. However, his life in the newly independent republic was not without further involvement in public affairs.

He became a prominent figure in the Vaps Movement, also known as the Estonian War of Independence Veterans' League. This nationalist, anti-parliamentary movement gained considerable popularity among disillusioned veterans and various segments of society in the 1930s, advocating for a stronger, more authoritarian government. Their activities, perceived as a threat to the established democratic order, led to their suppression by the government of Konstantin Päts. Consequently, Puskar, accused of engaging in underground political activity, was imprisoned from 1936 to 1937.

Later Years and Legacy

The outbreak of World War II and the subsequent Soviet occupation of Estonia in 1940 dramatically altered the country's political landscape. In 1941, as the German forces launched their invasion of the Soviet Union and drove the Red Army out of Estonia, Puskar travelled to Germany. He returned to his homeland following the Red Army's retreat, during the period of German occupation. Viktor Puskar passed away in Tartu on 12 April 1943, leaving behind a complex legacy as a decorated military hero and a controversial political figure during a turbulent period of Estonian history. His contributions to the Estonian War of Independence remain etched in the nation's memory.

FAQs

What was Viktor Puskar's most significant military achievement?

Viktor Puskar's most significant military achievements during the Estonian War of Independence included successfully defending Southern Estonia, expelling the Red Army from northern Latvia, and notably, leading the capture of Pskov, a strategically important city in Russia.

What does VR I/1 signify?

VR I/1 stands for the Cross of Liberty, 1st Class, 1st Grade. It is Estonia's highest military decoration, awarded for exceptional bravery and leadership in service to the nation.

What was the Vaps Movement?

The Vaps Movement, or the Estonian War of Independence Veterans' League, was a nationalist, right-wing political movement in Estonia during the 1930s. It advocated for a more authoritarian, presidential system of government and was eventually suppressed by the state due to its anti-parliamentary activities.

Why was Viktor Puskar imprisoned?

Viktor Puskar was imprisoned from 1936 to 1937, accused of involvement in underground political activity related to his leadership role in the Vaps Movement, which was deemed a threat to the constitutional order of the Republic of Estonia.

When and where did Viktor Puskar die?

Viktor Puskar died on 12 April 1943, in Tartu, Estonia.