Ivan Dmitrievich Borisov was born in 1913 in the city of Mytishchi, Moscow Oblast, Russia, into a working-class family. He joined the Navy in 1932 and graduated from the military school for flight commanders in 1936. Borisov participated in battles against Japanese invaders on the Khalkhin Gol River in the summer of 1939, where he conducted 17 combat sorties.
Participation in Conflicts
Borisov was also an active participant in the Soviet-Finnish War of 1939-1940. As a Senior Lieutenant and Assistant Squadron Commander of the 5th Fighter Aviation Regiment, part of the 61st Fighter Aviation Brigade of the Baltic Fleet Air Force, he completed 10 combat sorties. In aerial battles, he shot down several enemy aircraft, being the first to open his squadron’s combat score.
Heroic Sacrifice
On December 25, 1939, during a ground attack on anti-aircraft batteries in the Hanko area, his aircraft was hit by anti-aircraft fire and caught fire. The brave pilot did not flinch; with a steady hand, he steered his burning aircraft towards the enemy battery.
Through this act of supreme sacrifice, Borisov destroyed the enemy gun along with its crew, paying the ultimate price with his life. His audacity and determination became a symbol of Soviet resistance and bravery.
Posthumous Recognition
For the courage and military valor shown in battles against the “White Finns,” Ivan Dmitrievich Borisov was posthumously awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union on February 7, 1940. He was also decorated with the Order of Lenin and various medals, recognizing his exceptional service and sacrifice.