Mikhail Drozdovsky

Born

October 7, 1881 Kiev, Russian Empire

Died

January 1, 1919 (aged 37) Rostov-on-Don, South Russia

Allegiance

Russian Empire Provisional Government Russian Republic Russian Republic General Command of South Russia

Service / branch

Russian Imperial Army Russian Army (1917) White Army

Rank

Major general

Battles / wars

Russo-Japanese War World War I Russian Civil War (DOW)

History

Mikhail Drozdovski was a Russian military leader and one of the prominent figures of the White movement during the Russian Civil War. Born on October 7, 1881, he served as a colonel in the Imperial Russian Army and was known for his leadership and bravery during World War I. After the October Revolution, he became a staunch opponent of the Bolsheviks and joined the White forces fighting against the Red Army. Drozdovski is best known for his leadership of the "Drozdovtsy," a volunteer unit that he led on a remarkable march from Romania to southern Russia to join other White forces. This march, known as the "Ice March," was notable for its harsh conditions and the determination of Drozdovski's troops. He was wounded in battle in 1918 and later succumbed to his injuries on January 14, 1919. His dedication to the White cause and his military acumen made him a revered figure among the anti-Bolshevik forces, and he remains a symbol of the White resistance during the Russian Civil War.