Served in the Spanish Civil War, fighting for the Republican side in 1936
Became Soviet Biplane Fighter Ace during that conflict
Was awarded the "Hero of the Soviet Union" and "Order of Lenin" in June of 1937 for his participation in the Spanish Civil War
Kopets was promoted to Major General of Aviation, June 4, 1940 making him one of the youngest Soviet Generals at the age of 31
Became Commanding General of Air Forces of the Western Front, June 1940
Upon Hitler's invasion of Russia "Operation Barbarossa", June 22, 1941, Kopets' forces were completely destroyed on the ground on the first day of the invasion
To defer blame from himself Stalin, condemned Kopets and other Western Front Senior Officers to death for their "negligence"
Upon hearing of his fate, on June 23, 1941, Major General Ivan Kopets committed suicide, at age 32
Born September 9, 1908. Died June 23, 1941
M-1940 Parade Uniform of Major General of the Air Force Ivan Ivanovich Kopets
Photo of Major General Kopets taken shortly before his death
