Maria Dolina, Hero of the Soviet Union — Pe-2 Bomber Pilot in WWII

August 2, 2025 - Reading time: 6 minutes

Maria Dolina, Hero of the Soviet Union, Pe-2 bomber pilot, completed 72 combat sorties and dropped 45 tons of bombs during WWII, awarded Hero status in 1945.

Maria Dolina, Hero of the Soviet Union, Pe-2 bomber pilot, pictured during her service in 1944, a true symbol of bravery and leadership in WWII.

Maria Dolina, one of the most remarkable women in World War II, was a Hero of the Soviet Union, a gallant captain, and the deputy commander of the 125th Guards Bomber Aviation Regiment. A true pioneer, she became a key figure in the Soviet Air Force, serving as a Pe-2 bomber pilot during the brutal aerial campaigns of the war.

Born on December 18, 1922, Maria Ivanovna Dolina carried out 72 combat sorties in her Pe-2 dive bomber. During these missions, she dropped 45 tons of bombs on enemy targets, helping to undermine the Axis powers’ war effort. Her courage in the sky wasn't limited to bombing runs—she also participated in six aerial battles, where she shot down three enemy fighters, proving herself as a capable fighter pilot as well.

Her service didn’t go unnoticed. On August 18, 1945, Maria Dolina was awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union, a prestigious honor given for extraordinary courage and leadership in combat. She truly embodied the spirit of the Soviet aviator, and her legacy continues to inspire future generations.

Her contributions as a female commander in one of the most dangerous roles of the war broke barriers for women in the military. Dolina's heroism and determination served as a shining example of strength, skill, and sacrifice during one of the most pivotal times in history.

Technical photo data:
📝 Source of information: Unknown
📍 Location: Baltic States, USSR
📅 Date of photo: 1944
📷 Photographer: Unknown