An outstanding Russian naval commander, a hero, an executive officer and a talented leader - all this is about Pavel Stepanovich Nakhimov. He repeatedly showed his courage and courage in military battles, was too fearless, which killed him. He played a huge role in the Sevastopol defense of 1854-1855, defeated Turkish ships during a naval battle. Admiral PS Nakhimov was deeply respected and loved by his subordinates. He remained forever in the history of Russia. To date, there is even an order named after Nakhimov.
Biography of Admiral Nakhimov
Nakhimov Pavel Stepanovich was from a poor family of Smolensk nobles. His father held the rank of officer and retired as a second major. In his youth, Pavel Nakhimov entered the Naval Cadet Corps. Even during his studies, his natural gift as a leader made itself felt: he was executive to the point of impeccability, showed utmost accuracy, was always hardworking and did everything to achieve his goals.
He showed excellent results in training and at the age of 15 he became a midshipman. At the same agewas assigned to the brig "Phoenix", which was supposed to sail in the B altic Sea. At this time, many pay attention to the 15-year-old midshipman, who shows everyone that the naval service is his life's work. His favorite places in the world were a warship and a port. He did not have time to organize his personal life, and he did not want to. Pavel Stepanovich never fell in love and never married. He always showed diligence and zeal in service. The biography of Admiral Nakhimov testifies that the sea craft was not just his hobby, he lived and breathed it. He gladly agreed to Lazarev's proposal to serve on the frigate "Cruiser". This naval commander played a big role in the life of Nakhimov: he took an example from him and tried to imitate him. Lazarev became for him a "second father", teacher and friend. Nakhimov saw and respected in his mentor such qualities as honesty, disinterestedness, devotion to naval service.
Ship "Azov"
Nakhimov devoted three years to serving on the Cruiser, during which time he managed to "grow" from midshipman to lieutenant and become Lazarev's favorite student. The biography of Admiral Nakhimov says that in 1826 Pavel Stepanovich was transferred to Azov and again served under the same commander. This ship was destined to take part in the naval battle of Navarino. In 1827, a battle took place against the Turkish fleet, where the combined Russian, French and English squadron took part. "Azov" distinguished himself in this battle, coming closest to the enemy ships andinflicting great damage on them. Results of the battle: Nakhimov was wounded, many were killed.
Commander Nakhimov
At the age of 29, Pavel Nakhimov became the commander of the Pallada. This frigate did not yet know navigation and was only built in 1832. Then, the Silistria, which plied the expanses of the Black Sea, came under his command. Here Nakhimov becomes a captain of the 1st rank. For 9 years, under the leadership of Pavel Stepanovich, Silistria carried out the most difficult and rather responsible assignments.
Defense of Sevastopol
In 1854-1855, Nakhimov was transferred to the Crimea and, together with Istomin and Kornilov, heroically led the defense of Sevastopol. He led the formation of naval battalions, the construction of a battery, and the preparation of reserves. He constantly monitored the interaction of the fleet and the army, the construction of fortifications, and the supply of the defenders of Sevastopol. The story of Admiral Nakhimov shows that his keen eye has always seen how to use artillery and carry out other military operations more effectively. Often, Nakhimov himself went to the front line and led the fighting. During the first bombardment of the city in 1854, he was wounded in the head, and the following year he was shell-shocked. In 1855, on June 6, when the city was stormed, he became the head of the defense of the Ship side. At the peak moment, Nakhimov led a bayonet counterattack by infantry and sailors.
Death
June 28, 1855 should have been no different from everyday military service. A routine detour was made, the Sevastopol fortifications were checked. At 5 pm Nakhimov drove up to the third bastion. After inspecting the enemy positions, he headed towards the Malakhov Kurgan to observe the enemy. The sailors and Nakhimov's entourage very clearly remembered the day of his death. The biography of Admiral Nakhimov is evidence that he was very brave, to the point of recklessness. When a French bullet hit him, piercing through his skull, he stood and looked through a telescope. Directly at the enemy. Not hiding and not stepping aside, despite the exhortations of his subordinates, who tried to stop him and keep him away from the banquet. He did not die immediately, although without a single groan. The best doctors gathered at his bedside. He opened his eyes several times, but remained silent. Admiral Nakhimov died the next day after being seriously wounded. The funeral took place in the Sevastopol Vladimir Cathedral, the remains of his teacher Lazarev and military colleagues, Admirals Istomin and Kornilov, are also buried here.
Order of Nakhimov
Later, an order was established in honor of Admiral Nakhimov. They are awarded to outstanding officers of the navy for excellent conduct of maritime operations, bold decisions, and good organization. The order has several degrees.
Pavel Stepanovich did not have such qualities for which it would be impossible to reward. Now this order, as a memory of Admiral Nakhimov, a valiant officer and commander, is awarded to those who show the highest desire to achieve success and excellent results while doing their duty.
