Vladimir Pikalov

Vladimir Karpovich Pikalov (Владимир Карпович Пикалов; 15 September 1924 – 29 March 2003) was a Soviet general. He commanded the from 1968 to 1988.

During World War II, he was wounded several times and took part in the battles of Moscow, Stalingrad and Kursk.

He was in charge of the specialised military units at the site of the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant disaster. Pikalov arrived at the scene on the afternoon of April 26, 1986, and assumed command at Chernobyl.

Recognition
In December 1986, he was awarded the title of the Hero of the Soviet Union, for his role in the containment of the fallout from the catastrophe.