11 Facts About Pavel Rotmistrov

Chief marshal of the armored troops Pavel Alexeyevich Rotmistrov was a Soviet military commander of armoured troops in the Red Army during and following World War II.

Pavel Rotmistrov fought from the first days and was present in every major Soviet battle including Battle of Moscow, Battle of Stalingrad and for leading the 5th Guards Tank Army at the Battle of Prokhorovka at the Battle of Kursk.

Pavel Rotmistrov joined the Red Army in 1919, and served during the Russian Civil War, during which he was involved in the suppression of the Kronstadt rebellion and in the Polish Soviet War.

Pavel Rotmistrov commanded a platoon and later rifle company in 31st Rifle Regiment of 11th Rifle Division.

Pavel Rotmistrov commanded his first tank battalion during the Soviet-Finish war.

Pavel Rotmistrov started the war against Germany with the 3rd Mechanised Corps, which was destroyed during Operation Barbarossa.

Pavel Rotmistrov then commanded 8th tank brigade which was transferred to Kalinin front during the Battle of Moscow.

Pavel Rotmistrov commanded 5th Guards Tank Army in the Battle of Prokhorovka during the Battle of Kursk, and in Operation Bagration.

Pavel Rotmistrov was removed from command following Bagration and became deputy head of armored troops at the General Staff.

Pavel Rotmistrov was promoted to colonel-general in October 1943 and became the first Marshal of Armoured Troops in February 1944.

Pavel Rotmistrov became the first Chief marshal of armoured troops on 28 April 1962.