Finnish Forces

Major Puustinen

Timo "Jukka" Puustinen (1909-1962), Knight of the Mannerheim Cross #117. Puustinen was member of Suojeluskunta (Civil Guard) from 1928 to 1931, when he started his service in Finnish Army. He served as intructor lieutenant in training center of Niinisalo throughout the Winter War, and was promoted to Captain later in September 1940. In Continuation War (1941-44) he first led company and later battalion in 10th Infantry Regiment of 14th Division, at Rukajärvi front. In January 1942, Captain Puustinen took part in Major Arnold Majewski's raid to Mai-Guba, at Murmansk railway, 100 kilometers behind enemy lines. It was the largest long range patrol and consisted of 1600 men and 250 horses (for carrying supplies). He was promoted to Major in November 1942, after Majewski's death, and later on March 16, 1943, he led patrol of 600 men who raided large supply depot of Jeljärvi, 50km behind enemy lines at Rukäjärvi front. They attacked on skis in broad daylight, and destroyed some 30 buildings including ammunition storages, stables, hay storages, petrol storage and vehicle repair shop. They also destroyed two bridges, railway station, railroad switches, two railway bridges, five trucks, tractor and twenty horses. Over 200 enemies were killed and possibly same amount were wounded. Thirty of his men were killed, most of them during return trip, and six were wounded. Major Puustinen was awarded the Mannerheim Cross (II class) on August 1, 1943, for the successful patrols and his actions during offence phase of the war in 1941.