Vasily Petrov, Russian marshal (b. 1917)

Vasiliy Ivanovich Petrov (Russian: Васи́лий Ива́нович Петро́в; 15 January [O.S. 2 January] 1917 – 1 February 2014) was a highly distinguished Russian military official whose extensive career culminated in the prestigious rank of Marshal of the Soviet Union. Born in the village of Chernolesskoye, Stavropol Krai, on January 15, 1917 (or January 2, 1917, according to the Old Style Julian calendar then in use), Petrov lived for an remarkable 97 years, witnessing profound transformations from the Russian Revolution era through the entire Soviet period and into modern Russia.

Petrov's dedication to military service began early, as he joined the Red Army in 1939. His operational experience was forged during the brutal crucible of the Great Patriotic War (World War II), where he served on critical fronts including the Southern Front, the North Caucasus Front, and the 2nd Ukrainian Front. He demonstrated exemplary leadership and tactical prowess in various demanding roles, advancing from commanding a cavalry squadron to a motorized rifle battalion. His active participation in key campaigns during this period, enduring the intense pressures of wartime command, laid the foundational groundwork for his ascendant career within the Soviet military.

A Distinguished Post-War Career and Highest Military Honors

Following World War II, Vasiliy Petrov steadily climbed the ranks of the Soviet military hierarchy, demonstrating consistent competence and strategic insight. His career progression included commanding a division, an army corps, and eventually an army, showcasing his broad operational and strategic capabilities across diverse military formations. A particularly significant period of his service included his tenure as the Commander of the Far Eastern Military District from 1972 to 1976, a critical strategic region for the Soviet Union facing potential geopolitical challenges.

His extensive experience and leadership were further recognized with his appointment as Commander-in-Chief of the Land Forces and Deputy Minister of Defense from 1980 to 1985, positions of immense responsibility. In 1983, in profound acknowledgement of his unparalleled contributions and exemplary service to the state, Petrov was promoted to the esteemed rank of Marshal of the Soviet Union. This was the highest military rank in the Soviet Armed Forces, an honor bestowed upon only a select few for exceptional leadership, strategic acumen, and significant military achievements. He had also previously received the Hero of the Soviet Union award in 1982, the highest honorary title in the Soviet Union, for his courage and leadership in service. Petrov's career also encompassed international engagement, notably his crucial role in inspecting Soviet military advisors in Ethiopia during the Ogaden War in the late 1970s, highlighting the global reach of Soviet military influence and strategic interests during the Cold War era.

Legacy and Later Years

After 1986, Marshal Petrov continued to serve in an influential advisory capacity within the Ministry of Defense as an Inspector General, a revered role he maintained until his passing. His exceptionally long life spanned nearly a century, allowing him to not only witness but also actively participate in and shape some of the most pivotal military and political moments in 20th-century history. His death on February 1, 2014, marked the departure of one of the last remaining Marshals of the Soviet Union, a direct and invaluable link to the strategic command and operational realities of a bygone era.

Frequently Asked Questions about Marshal Vasiliy Petrov

• Who was Vasiliy Ivanovich Petrov?

  Vasiliy Ivanovich Petrov was a highly decorated and prominent Soviet military leader who achieved the highest military rank of Marshal of the Soviet Union, known for his distinguished service during World War II and significant roles throughout the Cold War era.

• What was the significance of the "Marshal of the Soviet Union" rank?

  The rank of Marshal of the Soviet Union represented the apex of military achievement and command within the Soviet Armed Forces. It was an exceptionally rare honor, conferred only upon military leaders who demonstrated extraordinary strategic acumen, leadership, and made profound contributions to national defense.

• When was Vasiliy Petrov born and when did he pass away?

  Marshal Vasiliy Petrov was born on January 15, 1917, and passed away on February 1, 2014, at the remarkable age of 97.

• What were some of his key military roles and achievements?

  Beyond his crucial service in World War II, Petrov held significant post-war leadership positions including Commander of the Far Eastern Military District, Commander-in-Chief of the Land Forces, and Deputy Minister of Defense. He was awarded the Hero of the Soviet Union in 1982 and promoted to Marshal of the Soviet Union in 1983.