South Yemen. MEMOIRS of a Military Adviser.

(1971-1974)
ABSTRACT
In 1969 the people of South Yemen drove the British colonialists
and embarked on an independent socialist path of development. I
happened in 1971 -1974 years of work there as a senior military
adviser to the commander of armoured troops. Distant land,
wonderful people, a variety of events left indelible impressions.
My story interspersed with plenty of illustrations. Without them he
would not be complete. Maybe someone from the readers working
in this country, known actors, and perhaps served with me. Please,
if such will respond. I would be very happy.
. CONTENTS.
Preface ................................................. ....................
On the eve of trip ................................................ ........
Ancient Arabia ................................................ ..................
Modern Yemen ................................................ ............
Inauguration and commencement of work .................................
Trip to El Abr .............................................. .................
Entering a new batch of tanks ........................................
Accelerated training battalion ..........................................
Tactical Exercises tank battalion live-fire ........
Marsh in El ADB. July 1972 ..........................................
Events in the area of al-Dali ............................................ ......
Events in the area Mukeyrasa .............................................. .
Trip to Kharaz. 1972 ............................................... .....
March from Tamudo in Mukalla ............................................. ....
Exploration helicopter ............................................... ...........
Voyage ................................................ ..................
Establishment of training facilities ............................................... .........
Strengthening Perim Island ............................................... ...
Battalion exercise in 1973 ..........................................
Teaching Ministry of Defense ............................................
Night live-fire exercises .......................................
Everyday life ................................................ .........
Afterword ................................................. .................
Comments and photos of colleagues in Yemen

PREFACE.
In the south Arabian Peninsula along the shore of the Gulf of Aden
Southern Yemen is located - People's Democratic Republic of Yemen.
It was a fairy tale, an ancient Muslim Arab country with a backward
illiterate population. It is hundreds of years was under the colonial yoke
Ottoman Empire and the UK. In 1969, as a result of the revolution
people of South Yemen won freedom. In a country like Cuba, dominated
the revolutionary spirit.
The Soviet Union and other socialist countries have provided a comprehensive
Yemen
aid: helping to raise the national economy, preparing for his professional
managed irrigation works, organized fishing industry, helped
exploratory works. In Soviet universities were trained Yemeni
students. A special party was to help in strengthening the defense. Soviet
Union virtually free supply weapons, military equipment and ammunition.
The construction of the new army. In 1969 came the first military
advisers and experts.
I arrived in Yemen in August 1971 as Senior Adviser to the Commander of
the Armored Forces. Before me in this position remained colonel of Belarus.
Quickly master the situation and has established contacts with the command
and personnel, assessed the readiness of units, the state of combat training,
outlined initial plans for our work. He began to learn Arabic.
I was destined to work out in Yemen for almost three years. It was one of the
most interesting periods of my life. There remains a lot of pictures that
remind me of the time.
During the service, I travelled to various regions of the country, including in
the most remote. In its methodology, within three months formed a battle-
worthy and prepared a tank battalion. By the same method, we subsequently
prepared a further two tank battalions to the T-34 and one on the T-55 ".
In 1972, we carried out for 10 days, 800 kilometre march to the tanks to the
border with Saudi Arabia. In the same year with its tank crews had a baptism
of fire in the battle to defeat the invaders at the border with North Yemen in
the area of al-Dali.
We ordered within the 10-th Main Directorate of the General Staff of the
tanks. They were transported on merchant ships in the port of Aden. At night
they unloaded, loaded them on rafts and on the trailer were taken to the
training centre.
In the summer of 1973 - the year in order to explore possible ways and means
of transporting a tank battalion to the remote area on the border with Saudi
Arabia, carried out reconnaissance trip through the desert and mountain ranges
on road transport, air flights and a helicopter. We ordered a Soviet "BDK"
(large landing ship), loaded on to tanks and carried him their transfer to the
border with Oman. There the first time in the history of Arabia, we have
carried out their landing, and then the 400-kilometer march to Tamudo. Tank
units have greatly increased the infantry brigade stationed there and in general
- defend the oil-bearing areas Tamudo.
In 1973 - th year broke the Arab-Israeli war. We have moved a squadron of
tanks on the island of Perim, and together with infantry and artillery units have
organized his defense and took control of the passage of warships through the
Bab - Al-Mandeb.
In nachale1973-year worsened the situation on the border with North Yemen
in the area Mukeyrasa. There Infantry Brigade was deployed, but no tanks.
Road, punched in the steep rocky ridge was narrow and the tanks on it could
not pass. We eventually managed to overcome it and move a squadron of
tanks in the fighting.
During my entire period of work we carried out an intensive military training
in the material part. We managed to create a tank school and the training of
mechanics - the drivers, gunners and tank commanders.
Management of South Yemen regularly visited by armoured forces, responded
to our requests, to provide all possible assistance.
I was able to organize and conduct a few grandstanding battalion live-fire
exercises, attended by the president, government and military attaches of
various countries. The last exercise in the 74-th year, we conducted
simultaneously with two tank battalions: - on T-34 and T-55. At the same time
during daylight fired tanks T-34 ", and the tanks T-55" in total darkness. Using
night vision goggles, moved from the bottom, successively unrolled in the
fighting line and fired shells and machine guns.
The sight was indescribable! It made a strong impression on all present
officials.
In general, I was able to establish with the personnel armoured forces very
good relationship. The commander ordered that all my tips were carried out as
his personal orders. I happened to visit on the President's reception, organized
in connection with the arrival of officer’s tank, tank school graduates in the
USSR.
Good contacts were established with the prime minister (he is Minister of
Defense), with the commander of ground forces, with the Chief of General
Staff. I always felt from their side complete trust and willingness to support
my endeavours. This is much easier to implement plans for the creation and
development of armoured forces.
Almost managed to visit almost all regions of the country, experience the
harsh climatic conditions, to communicate with a large number of Yemenis
and create their impression of South Arabia.
After leaving Aden I was in the Ministry of Defense General Directorate of
combat training. While still in Yemen, we filed a request to Moscow to study
at the Academy of BT and MV officers tankers. In 1975 a large group of
officers arrived in Moscow. We met on several occasions. I invited them to his
guests. They once gave me a modest, but the original gift from the
commander. It was a night light in the form of a camel. I still keep it.
Preserved some of the gifts and from other officials.

THE EVE OF TRIP.

1971. So, all the emotions, worries, cares, charges fly over.
We are flying! We fly to Never Land - South Arabia, almost on the equator, in
the People's Democratic Republic of Yemen. My wife Julia and a group of
advisers, some of which have come down in Cairo, sitting in the IL-18 and are
on course to Simferopol. Landing. Do not leave the plane refueled, again rose
into the sky and headed for Cairo. Gone Sevastopol. It was already dark.
Below us the Black Sea. Within an hour going over it. That and the Turkish
coast.
Many times as a child, lying on the shore of Sukhumi beach, I looked at the
sea horizon and imagine that for him? Sometimes, in clear weather on the
horizon appeared clear the distant snowy mountains. We knew that they were
mirages. After some time they disappeared. And the mystery remained.
At the bottom of the dark mountains. Occasionally there are weak lights
settlements. It was announced that under our Ankara. Flashed its lights and we
went to the Mediterranean. I sit at the left on board the porthole and watch as
the bright moon rises. From it creeps through the dark mirror of the sea bright
path. Looking intently at her, and gradually going into the past.
In 1959 I came to replace a group of Soviet troops in Germany in ZAKVO in
75 DPA, stationed in the town of Nakhichevan on the Araks River, the post of
commander of the training tank platoon. In 1960 he was transferred to
Nagorno-Karabakh in Stepanokert in 347 SMEs in the post of commander of a
tank company, then commander of the battery, ACS-100. In 1964 was
appointed Deputy Chief of Staff of the same regiment. In 1965 he entered the
Academy of Armored Forces in the Extra-Mural Department. In this regard,
on the orders of the commander of 4 th Army, Lieutenant General Tretyak to
facilitate the study translated in 23 DPA truncated in Kirovabad Chief of Staff
infantry battalion.
The position has been rated, but had to perform various tasks: Deputy Chief of
Staff of the regiment, the head of the secret department, to be chief of courses
and fees, go on business trips, during the drills to connect to the work of the
Operations Division of the division, to serve on the various committees and
even be a senior football team that participated in the championship of
Azerbaijan from the military garrison.
In 1968 he was appointed Chief of Staff 298 Tank Regiment 295 DPA. The
regiment was stationed 25 kilometers from Baku, near a place called Guzdek.
It was a garrison, consisting of a tank regiment, a separate reconnaissance,
anti-aircraft division, repair shops divisions seconded units builders. Life in
this garrison requires a separate description. He was considered remote,
unsettled and, as a political exile, where the officers were sent for the offense.
Breaking the garrison succeeded in a few.

In early 1970, there I was appointed commander of a tank regiment with the
rank of lieutenant colonel early.
Where - in February 1971 went to the teachings of kirovobadskuyu division,
brokered the commander of a tank regiment. We went to the mountains, where
he spent teaching. Regimental commander periodically left to undergo a
medical board. He was preparing to go to South Yemen adviser. When
scientists have been completed and has passed review, he told me with sadness
in his voice said that the medical board of his discarded.
Returning to the exercises, I thought: we have a 4-th Army four tank
regiments. In Nakhichevan tank regiment commander of the new, just arrived
from the Academy. Send him somewhere soon. In Lankaran tank regiment
commander has just arrived from trips abroad. Also eliminated.
Kirovobadskogo rejected. Hence, remains one of my candidacy.
When I arrived home in Guzdek, his wife said that I must immediately report
to the Human Resources Department division that she and her children had
already passed a medical examination and we have to go on a business trip
abroad. Head of Personnel at my arrival said that I urgently need to pass
medical examination and be prepared to go to the People's Democratic
Republic of Yemen to the post of adviser to the commander of armoured
troops.
At that time, every Soldier dreamed of working abroad. Other way to raise
their material well-being was not. Officer who has not been at a foreign, has
been largely limited to financial circumstances.
Commission, we are Julia and youngest son Zhorik passed. After some time, I
was informed that the submission of took me out of the district in Moscow. I
was immediately drawn up and leave I went to Sukhumi to his family, and a
couple of weeks - in Moscow. Being in the capital, I received a message that
should appear at the Military Institute of Foreign Languages, which was to
take preparatory courses.
Seeing me in civilian clothes, head of the institute, Colonel-General Andrei
Andreyev Matveyevich was very angry. My explanation that I leave him no
effect. It turns out that rates have already begun, as I walk. I had to quickly
take shape and justified in a military institute. In the dorm room, where I was
determined, were the chief military advisor to North Yemen, Nikolai
Ivanovich Zaytsev, Deputy Head of artillery, Colonel Alexander Smirnov.
Total in the room were three of us. Adviser to the Minister of Defense of
South Yemen, Major-General Konstantin Gorelenko lived in Moscow.

Our group courses consisted of advisers of North and South Yemen. In the
other groups were military advisers from Egypt, Syria, Libya, and Algeria.
Advisers were several kinds and types of troops. In total there was 50 people.
We were taught the Arabic language, Arab history, their geography. Interest
was the stories about religion, customs, the revolutionary movement and the
political situation. We studied the organization and the state of the armed
forces, methods of their preparation, the level of combat capability and other
issues.
All the teachers previously served in an Arab country, so could share their
experiences and give useful advice. Our courses were generals from the
Ministry of Defence. They organized various interesting excursions: the
Kremlin, Mausoleum, Star City and a meeting with the astronauts, the
museum of criminology, etc. Our team has been friendly. Much talked to each
other, joking, sometimes marked an event. At the end of courses in Moscow
came to Julia and also met new friends. Friendly relations were maintained in
the future, during the trip.

Ancient Arabia.
Historical.
Fate of the Arabian Peninsula is truly dramatic. Finds of Early Paleolithic
tools Olduvai type in the territory of South Arabia from the coastal strip at the
strait to the western parts of Hadramaut, and the discovery of numerous Early
Paleolithic sites along the northern boundary of Rub al-Khali indicate that
South Arabia was part of one of the areas where mankind started its "march on
the planet", having started from East Africa. One of the ways of settlement
was through Arabia, in that distant time, well-irrigated waters of the river
flows, blooming, rich in countless herds of herbivores.

Apparently, no later than XX millennium BC discovered the first ominous

signs of a sharp change in the natural conditions of human habitation in
Arabia, which in the XVIII-XVII th led to absolute dryness of the climate
almost throughout the peninsula. People left Arabia, although it is possible
that at its extreme south and east remain separate, little connected with each
other "eco-havens, where they continued to smouldering embers of life.

With thousands of VIII in the new, this time favourable to the people of
climate change, starting secondary, and final, its first settlement of the eastern
coastal area (Qatar), and then, with the VII-VI thousand, and Central and
South Arabia (south -western part of the Rub al-Khali, North Yemen,
Hadramout, etc.). Apparently, no later than the V th along the eastern coast of
Arabia settled ubeydskoy media culture, and then the culture Dzhemdet-Nasr.
In the III millennium eastern Arabia, especially Oman (ancient Magan), are
included in the maritime trade of the Southern Mesopotamia and the country
Dil-mun "(Bahrain) with the North-West India.
It is possible that at the end of the beginning of the III-II millennium BC. e.
the territory of South Arabia for the first time penetrate Semitic tribes. We do
not know the specific reasons for them to do a complete deprivation route to
the south of the peninsula, but it is clear that even at his ancestral home, they
had reached a fairly high level of development: they were familiar with
farming; they have acquired skills in irrigation and in construction.
Communicate with more cultural sedentary peoples acquaint them with the
script, they already possess and orderly system of religious beliefs.
Features of the natural environment of South Arabia - a large dissected terrain,
the contrasts of climatic zones, the relatively narrow valleys, wadis, suitable
for agriculture have contributed to the aliens, selyas individual tribes or tribal
groups, creating isolated pockets of culture.
One consequence of this isolation was the co-existence in a small area for a
long time of not less than four special languages.
Distinct characteristics and identity have arisen here since the end of II
millennium and up to VI. BC. e. Civilization: Sabean, Katabaiskaya,
Hadhramaut and Mainsskaya, I co-existed for thousands of BC. e. Probably,
during this time, Modern South Arabian civilization in its cultural contacts
with the Middle East remains focus on those areas where they once came to
the founders.
In the culture of ancient Hadramawt occur and elements of borrowing from the
fields in the far east of the Arabian Peninsula, a long time were under the
influence of Southern Mesopotamia. In the first half I thousand BC. e. is
already highly developed society based on irrigated agriculture, with many
towns, the development architecture and art.
Pivotal role is played by the technical culture and, above all, trees and shrubs
yielding frankincense, myrrh and other fragrant resins, which are in high
demand in the Middle East and Mediterranean. Breeding fragrant trees became
a source of prosperity of the Ancient Yemen, "Happy Arabia." The export of
spices has boosted the exchange and trade, increased cultural contacts. In the
X century. BC. e. Saba tying trade and diplomatic relations with the Eastern
Mediterranean.

By the VIII century BC. the Sabean state first enters into contact with the
Assyrian power and, apparently, not later than in VII. BC. e. colonizes the
territory of modern North-Eastern Ethiopia. Production of frankincense,
myrrh, and others were concentrated mainly in the Indian Ocean Rim areas
Hadramawt (and partially - Katabana), and external trade caravan from VI.
BC. e. in the hands of Maina (Oman). This was the beginning the main part of
the caravan "Ways of incense.
Later maintsy pose caravan station and trading colony in Northwest Arabia,
and begin to make regular shopping trips to Egypt, Syria and Mesopotamia,
and then on the island of Delos. The position of South Arabia on the sea route
from India to Africa and Egypt continue, in the Mediterranean, in the first half
I thousand BC. e., well defined and its role as a key mediator in the exchange
of goods between the ancient civilizations of South Asia and the Middle East,
Indian Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.
Harbor Hadramaut and Katabana served as transit points for these products,
which from this caravan went to the north - in Egypt, Syria, Mesopotamia. It
was facilitated by a special regime of winds blowing in the northern Indian
Ocean, which allowed the winter from the west coast of India harbors to sail
directly to the south-western Arabia and eastern Africa, while in summer the
winds provide swimming from South Africa, Arabia and India.
In VII century. BC. e. the entire territory of South West Arabia extends Saba's
political hegemony, but even with the VI-IV vv. BC. e. as a result of
protracted wars Mayne, Kataban and Hadramaut exempt from Sabean
dependence, and this is reflected in the numerous facts of the "national"
cultural renaissance.
War continued throughout the second half of I millennium BC. e. As a result
of their Main absorbed Saboia, but she herself weakened by these wars, a long
time becomes an arena of internecine battles and changes of various peripheral
dynasties.
The relative stability is determined only in III. Mr. E. By this time the
historical arena disappeared Kataban, in itself, Saba is becoming a dynasty of
Hamiyara - the area was situated in the extreme south-west of South Arabia.

By the beginning of our era there is a sharp change in the situation on how the
export of spices, which influenced the subsequent development of local
civilizations. Already in
II in the middle BC
Red Sea and the western part of the Gulf of Aden are mastered by the Greco-
Egyptian sailors and merchants. At their ships, they reach the northern coast of
Somalia and Aden, where goods brought from India by Yemeni and Indian
seafarers on their vessels are overloaded.
At the end of II. BC. e. Monopoly of South Arabia in the transit trade
between India and Egypt suffered a heavy blow.
Opening of the Greco-Egyptian sailors in monsoon allowed them to make a
direct voyage to India and back. Within what a hundred years in India sent
annually from Egypt more than 100 ships. With the capture of Syria and Egypt
by Rome in 1. BC. e. situation even more complicated. Vnutriaraviyskaya
trade withers, the struggle in South Arabia in the I. BC is not for domination
of the trade routes, and directly behind the land where the trees grow, giving
incense, and for coastal areas that housed the harbor for the export of spices.
Founder drevneyemenskih civilizations brought to South Arabia, a strong
knowledge, understanding and skills in many areas of economic and cultural
life. This is evidenced by the magnificent buildings of stone, huge city, built
on artificial hills, in valleys, wadis, the unsurpassed skill of the builders of
giant irrigation systems. The same interpretation and the richness of spiritual
life, reflected in the complex ideas about the world of the gods, to create their
own "intellectual spirit" - the priesthood, in an extremely wide distribution of
the letter.

Ancient yuzhnoaraviytsy speaking languages separate subgroup

"yuzhnoperiferiynyh" Semitic languages, used a special letter, they have
inherited from alphabetic writing Eastern Mediterranean - many characters
have been changed in accordance with the basic idea - giving the whole
system of signs of clear geometric shapes. They wrote on a variety of
materials, cut in stone, wooden boards, on clay, then cast in bronze
inscriptions, scratched on rocks (graffiti), applied as soft pieces, writing
materials.

They wrote it all: the kings and to know, slaves and merchants, builders, and
priests, camel-drivers and artisans, men and women. The newly discovered
inscriptions found descriptions of historical events, articles of law. Also found
dedications and building texts, inscriptions on tombs, business
correspondence, copies of mortgage documents, etc., etc. That is the
inscription along with a special mention in the Bible, the ancient and early
Byzantine authors are an important source of knowledge on the history and
culture of ancient South Arabia. However, the traditional culture known to
few.

Been lost major works of mythological, ritual and other content. The most
important sources to this day remain inscriptions, containing among other
things, the names and epithets of the gods, their symbols, as well as sculptural
and relief images of gods, their sacred animals, mythological scenes. They are
based about the nature of pantheons (single host of the gods in South Arabia is
not formed) and some functions of the gods.

We know that here in the early stages of the enormous role played by the
astral deities, which led pantheons, especially drevnesemitsky God Astar
(Ishtar, Astarte, etc.). His manner was Venus. After Astara followed different
incarnation of the solar deity, and, finally, "national" gods-gods of tribal
alliances, which was the personification of the Moon (Almakah in Saba, Wadd
in Maine, Amm in Kara-bath, and Sin in Hadramaut).
Of course, there were other gods, protectors of individual genera, tribes, cities,
and "functional" deity (irrigation, etc.). In general, joined the pantheon of
ancient obschesemitskie (Astar may llu) gods or clan deity, borrowed from
Mesopotamia (INS) and the neighbors of Central and Northern Arabia, etc. If
we talk about the dynamics of submissions to the "pagan" era it can clearly be
seen, at least from the time shortly before the beginning of our era, the
prominence of "national" gods and the gradual displacement of the main astral
deities Astara. Subsequently, the IV century. Mr. e., Almakah in Saba almost
completely excludes the other gods, which greatly facilitates the transition to
monotheistic religions - Judaism and Christianity. The local population is
increasingly diluted in the mass of the newly arrived tribes and generally lose
their identity and language, "Arabize".

A consequence of the special natural conditions of existence of the ancient

South Arabian civilization and peculiarities of their development was the close
proximity of and interaction with the nomadic tribes of inner Arabia. Some of
these tribes constantly sought to emerge from the desert country in the
agricultural areas and settle down there. Pastoral tribes were at significantly
lower levels of economic and cultural development. Settling in over the
centuries (especially since the II century. N. E.) On the lands of Yemen, they
come into direct contact with the local civilizations. This is in no small part
led to a general decline in economic life and culture, to that irresistible, and all
the growing impact of negative factors determined the gradual decline of
South Arabian civilization from the first centuries of our era, and their deaths
in the VI.
However, the decline of ancient civilizations of South Arabia, and was
accompanied by an extraordinary flight of the spiritual life, which is reflected
in the fanciful form of the totality of the conditions and characteristics of their
development. In the dying societies, it is critically highlighted in the
eschatological tone.
The fact that South Arabia, especially its interior, the most advanced centers of
civilization, less able to benefit from the special position at the crossroads of
trade routes, does not mean that this very situation has lost all meaning in the
eyes of the great empires of antiquity. One could even argue that since the end
of I in. BC. e. is increasing steadily, and Arabia in general and South Arabia in
particular, assumes the character of an essential element of international
relations.
At the turn of our era, the natural centers of distribution in South Arabia
pozdneellinisticheskih influences (and subsequently Christianity) became just
the trading settlements of the Greek-Egyptian merchants in the coastal trading
cities (Aden, Cana, on the island of Socotra). By this time, are attested in the
iconography of the attempts to create allegorical images of South Arabian
gods, and their "Hellenization"
First century AD in the Greco-Roman environment of Aden and Socotra
starting to spread Christianity.
C IV in. Mr. e. Eastern Roman Empire is making efforts to implant in South
Arabia referred to religion, using as a missionary activities of the church of
Alexandria, and Christianized elite Axum - the state that emerged by the
beginning of our era on Ethiopian territory and captured at the beginning of II
century BC. some coastal areas in south-western Arabia.
Soon Arabia fill monofisity, Nestorians, and others to the picture we must add
the local ancient pagan religions and cults of the primitive Bedouin, have
increasing influence on political developments in the southern Arabian
Peninsula.
In the fierce struggle of ideas, accompanied by clashes, incursions aksumitov,
South Arabian drawn into wider circles of society ... It very clearly brought the
main political conclusion of this struggle: Christianity and all sects, Judaism,
and lead to loss of independence, to enslave the country by foreigners.
However, the ideological explosion was impossible to prevent. The struggle of
ideas spread beyond the south of Arabia, drawing into its orbit trading posts
on the caravan routes. Gradually, in this struggle its way home the other
political idea - the idea of unity and opposition. Gave rise to something of
their own, the Arabian, unique. Islam was born.
MODERN YEMEN.
Yemen (and north and south) for many centuries has been a mediator in a
lively trade carried on between the basins of the Red Sea and the
Mediterranean and India. On the territory of Yemen, many extinct volcanoes.
The highest peak of Mount Al-Nabi-Shaib height of 3600 meters. In the east,
large extensive areas of desert. The largest desert of Al-Rub 'al-Khali.
There are no permanent large rivers and reservoirs. There are subterranean
groundwater. The coastal zone consists of a narrow strip of plain and
mountain formations. Climate refers to the tropics. However, in various
regions of the country it varies. The main factors determining the climate, in
addition to height above sea level, is the proximity of the Red Sea and Indian
Ocean with the monsoon winds and the presence in the east of the vast area of
deserts.

A common feature of climate is the presence of only two seasons in a year: the
hot and relatively cool. The hot season begins in late April and lasts until mid-
October. By the time it coincides with the south-west monsoon, which blows
from the north-eastern Africa. Average temperature of the hottest month
(June) in the coastal zone of 30-32 degrees C, and very cool (January) -20-25
degrees C. The annual rainfall in the coastal zone is less than 100 mm.
Wildlife relatively poor. Flora of desert areas represented annual and perennial
grasses, shrubs and stunted trees.
The vast majority of the population - the Arabs. They also live Ethiopians,
Somalis, people from India and Pakistan. Residents of the coastal strip have
noticeable features of the Negro as a result of prolonged confusion with the
various African peoples. In Yemen, it is difficult to divide the population into
urban and selskoe.Promyshlennost poorly developed.
In the early sixteenth century, Yemen was captured by the Ottoman Empire. In
the seventeenth century Turkish yoke was overthrown and the territory of
Yemen, formed an independent state.
In 1839 the British seized Aden and subsequently occupied the whole territory
of South Yemen. In 1878, Turkey re-established their power in North Yemen,
and held her until the end of the First World War.
In 1919, North Yemen was proclaimed an independent kingdom.
In 1959, the British in South Yemen formed the Federation of Arab Emirates
of the South. In 1962 it was renamed the Federation of South Arabia.
In 1962 in September in northern Yemen, a military coup. Kingdom was
overthrown, and proclaimed the Yemen Arab Republic.
September 30, 1967 in South Arabia, the British government was overthrown
and formed the People's Republic of South Yemen. In 1970 it was renamed
the People's Democratic Republic of Yemen.
Most of the border is not demarcated.

After the revolution of 1962 in northern Yemen in the environment of the

tribal elite were serious social change. An capitalization of major sheikhs.
They began to invest in land, construction of tenement houses and hotels, to
transfer funds in banks abroad, to acquire shares of foreign companies. Going
penetration of commodity-money relations in the village, was awakened by
the revolution. Form an integrated national market. Were destroyed tribal
representation. Devalued the traditional national values. Gradually decreased
the value of tribes, as a traditional Yemeni forces on the formation of domestic
and foreign policy.
Along with the increasing role of the major sheikhs. As a result of the
revolution in South Yemen from it ran about a hundred thousand opponents of
the new regime, including sultans, emirs and sheikhs. They established their
base in the border areas of North Yemen and were active in the fight against
the new revolutionary government. Mined the field road, attacked villages,
killing activists who staged the explosions.
June 22, 1969 to power a left-wing National Front. Were reorganized senior
government and party organs. Created by the Presidential Council, headed by
the chairman Rubeyya Salem Ali.

He is wary of scientific socialism, the alliance with the USSR and the world
communist movement. Initiated the events, which inflicted great harm to the
revolution: the forced enrollment of peasants into cooperatives, premature
nationalization of property of small entrepreneurs, traders, owners of vehicles,
workshops, etc. Advocated the idea of establishing a system of pseudo-
democracy. It was against the creation of a vanguard party, infringe upon the
interests of the intelligentsia, indiscriminately enrolled all persons of
intellectual labor in the bourgeoisie.
He and his supporters tried to oppose the National Front for Workers' Control
Committees and People's Committees of Defense, in manners which promote
anarchist and hostility to the state-party apparatus. Opposed to the thesis of the
leadership of the proletariat. They found no support for members of the newly
established vanguard party, bringing together all parties that at the plenum in
December 1977 condemned their opportunistic activities.
In early 1978 he was charged with spying for Saudi Arabia. Effect Rubeyya
Ali greatly decreased. In these circumstances, he provoked a conflict with
North Yemen. June 23, 1978 by contacting the president of the Yemen Arab
Republic al-Gashimi, he asked to take his personal representative with a
message of discretion. During a recent visit to Al-Gashimi in the office of
president was an explosion. Implicit in the messenger briefcase bomb
exploded, while a mortally wounded al-Gashimi. Killed himself a messenger.
At the plenum of the Central Committee convened urgently Rubeyya Ali was
removed from his post. Had been asked to leave the country. But he did not
obey. Barricaded in his residence and tried to raise part of the army loyal to
him. He had long been preparing a coup. At the caches for that collect
weapons and ammunition, military units preparing for his obedient people.
However, it was only supported by their fellow tribesmen and one infantry
brigade. Armored troops were on the side of Nasser Muhammad, his main
opponent. Retractable to Aden Infantry Brigade was stopped by a tank
battalion. Rubeyya Ali was arrested, tried by a military tribunal and executed
along with their closest associates.
Prime Minister appointed Ali Nasser Mohammed, who is also defense
minister.

In the early 70's felt the tension and Rubeyya Nasser Muhammad Ali. Both
sought to win over the army, showed great interest in the armored forces. I had
several occasions to meet them. Their attitude to me was the most
sympathetic.
After removing Rubeyya Ali led the country. Since the Soviet Union
established the closest relations. Under his leadership, the country held great
political and economic transformation. However, relations with other political
faction led by party's general secretary Abdul Fattah Ismail, turned into
confrontation. In 1986, Nasser invited to the residence Fattah supporters,
including the popular army, Ali Antar. In the hall where the assembled waiting
Nasser became adjutant with tray and tea for them. Putting a tray, he pulled a
pistol and opened fire on the crowd. Fattah Ismail, Ali Antar, and several
people were killed. Return fire aide was also killed. There was an armed
struggle with the army. Nasser Mohammed lost and was forced to flee to
Ethiopia. His further fate is unknown.

Secretary-General of the National Front, was elected head of his left-wing

Abdel Fattah Ismail.

In the conflict between the president and prime minister, he sided with the
latter. Long supported Nasser in his transformation. By the mid-80's, Ali
Nasser Mohammed as a result of erroneous actions have lost credibility in the
party and the army. Between their factions arose a sharp conflict. As a result
of the insidious action Nasser Abdel Fattah Ismail was killed.
In all Arab countries came to power with the support of the army. Often they
were a group of officers and generals. Using personal authority, they
overthrew their rulers and took their places. After a while they, in turn, could
topple the other officer group.
The same thing happened in Yemen. Therefore, its leaders tried to conquer the
masses in the army's personal authority, to have personally loyal uniformed
commanders. During my work there (1971 1974g.g.) Experienced a significant
increase in force of armored forces. Once we showed them the live-fire
exercises, they are very interested in us, and each tried to bring us to his side.
Between the above-mentioned leaders was hidden power struggle. She
eventually end their tragic loss.
The officer corps is replaced by 90%, and a soldier - by 70%. Members of the
armed forces increased at the expense of peasants and workers. Reorganized
the security service and police. A people's militia. In the provinces and
districts set up local people's councils, established special courts to deal with
political affairs. Developed activities to strengthen the armed forces.
A law banning the private sector in banking and insurance sector. Eliminated
the "free" status of Aden seaport. Nationalized 36 companies and banks.
Expropriation of all land and immovable property of the former sultans, sheiks
and emirs, federal ministers and counter-revolutionary elements. The peasant
masses were involved in the revolutionary process. On the basis of the
nationalized land to form cooperatives and state enterprises.
In 1970 he was arrested by the group "Muslim brothers". In March, revealed
dangerous anti-government conspiracy.
Relations with Western countries took hostile. With the United States severed
diplomatic relations.
On a territorial basis to set up committees of national defense. They trained a
capable male population of the possession of arms and mobilized the local
population to fight against the counterrevolution.
In early 1972 the exploiting classes in the village were largely eliminated.

Inauguration and start working.

The day after his arrival, we advisor, to be replaced which I arrived, went to
the location of armored forces. On the way to the staff met with the tank
crews. They smiled warmly and greeted us by the hand. We went to the
headquarters. The commander knew of the arrival of a new adviser. He
gathered in the Cabinet officers. We all met, drank coffee and went to inspect
the fleet of combat vehicles.
The tanks were placed in the training center in Salah al - Din, and armored
personnel carriers were included in the infantry and were subordinated to their
commanders. Stationary repair were made. There were several cars "TRM"
(tank-repair shops). The tanks were placed in an excellent English hangar.
Floor and walls were concrete, and the roof - made of white iron. The tanks
were well peeled and painted. Felt that they did not have long exploited.
Separately there were three tank combat training group.
My predecessor had introduced me to the situation. Armored troops were in a
tank battalion of T-34 "and individual companies. Results There were 50 tanks
and 200 armoured vehicles of the British Centurion "and" Ferret ".
Units were fully staffed. The officers and sergeants were part under the
British. They tried to keep order, practical forge with them, to shift the grunt
work of subordinates. Sami is virtually not involved in the maintenance and
repair work. Gradually, some of them had been replaced by sergeants and
soldiers, trained by Soviet advisers.
The year before my arrival, one tank company was transferred to the north to
the border with Saudi Arabia in Al - ADB. To commit 800-kilometer march
took 14 days. My predecessor, which I succeeds, proudly told me that in this
march, he also took part.
The relationship between supervisors and subordinates were simple, without
subordination. Simple soldier could go to the boss and reach out and shake
hands on equal terms. The revolutionary spirit - all are equal.
Immediately on his arrival in Aden continued initiated courses in Moscow to
learn Arabic. Score learned quickly. It was simple and easily pronounceable.
Each day, learn the most practical one or two words. The next day necessarily
apply them in practice. A couple of months I was able to communicate with
podsovetnymi without an interpreter. For technical and complex issues using
its two translators.
After seeing its predecessor, I became better acquainted with their specialists,
with the officers and sergeants Yemenis, so as conducted training, which has a
training base and other issues. In a country dominated by the revolutionary
mood and the spirit of equality; the relationship between commanders and
subordinates were simple. At the same time, all orders were carried out
without question. To us - Soviet specialists - relations were good.

We are perceived as ideological allies. We have supplied free military

equipment, weapons, ammunition and much more. We helped in the
organization of education, health, agriculture, fisheries, and on many issues.
At the same time, Yemen has had good relations with the PRC (China). In the
seventies, with China we have developed strained relations. There were armed
clashes. So sometimes it was thought that someone who is friendly with the
Chinese - is bad for us. Among the leadership of the were also supporters of
this trend. For example, the general secretary of Fatah Ismail and others.
However, openly negative attitude towards us no one showed.
As a result, the first day of work I have a whole formed a definite idea of the
state of the armored troops and the full range of activities to be carried out in
order to dramatically improve combat capability and significantly develop
them. I outlined a plan of action and decided to strictly abide by.
In my team there were experts on the technical parts, armament,
communications and two translators of Arabic and English languages.
By 6 am-45 am, our group gathered in front of my house, approached the car
and we drove to his office. It was a room with air conditioning and furniture in
the hotel complex, where the bachelors live. I put every specialist task and
then we went to the headquarters to the post of lieutenant commander Ali
Obaid. Each met with his podsovetnym and went to work.
Greet each other: "Sabah il Kheir! Il Sabah Nur! Keyf Peleg? Kulyushyu
Tamam." The commander asked: "Eish cabbage? Aqua val shyay? Maalesh.
(Good morning! "Good morning, how are you?" All right. What would you
like? "Coffee or tea? Anyway). The servant brought the drinks. We
commander netoropyas drinking, discussing the next event. Chief of Staff
Captain Sheriff Mansour. He graduated with honors from our armor academy
with the rank of Major and returned to his North Yemen. Revolutionary
Organization, which he supported was defeated. He managed to flee to South
Yemen. Here he was assigned the rank of captain and appointed Chief of Staff
of armored forces. He spoke good Russian, and has been our reliable
supporter. He served me an excellent translator.
I suggested Ali Obaid check the readiness of the tank battalion. He
immediately agreed and declared combat anxiety. We watched as crews tried
to introduce new machinery, went to the assembly area and began to watch the
actions of the battalion. The end result is an area half the tanks arrived.
Some of the tanks stopped on the road, and some could not go out of boxes.
Obaid Ali, I said that the battalion for combat operations is not ready and is
the result of the fact that the tanks for a long time, cleaned, wiped and not
exploited. Its specialists set the task to deal with every tank, troubleshoot and
report back. Ali Obaid said that from tomorrow to begin intensive training.
Made a lesson plan with him and training, was appointed leaders and briefed
them.
The next day, my zampoteh began his studies with the driver, artvooruzhenets
- a gunner, and loader, a specialist in communications - with the tank
commander. We Mansur assembled all the officers, reviewed the basics of
combat readiness. Let's go to the site. Put them to the task of preparing the
tank-infantry training, driving military vehicles, establishment of training
points for the Study of equipment and weapons. After a detailed discussion of
all issues of concern announced the beginning of class tomorrow at 8 00 am.
In my office discussed with experts study plan. By one o'clock, a car drove up,
the working day has ended and we went to his town.

During the month we stepped up the intensity of training, creating new

training places, improved teaching methods in operation brought ten tanks.
And, finally, feel the results. Tankers engaged with pleasure. We have
implemented a competitive, competition. A month later began firing single
bullets. Mechanics and drivers engaged in practical driving. We Mansur
conducted with officers training on tactics, answered many questions.
Begun to tactical exercises with the units. In the early issues of the
nomination, deployment in a combat line and the transition to the attack
worked out a method of "walking the tank, then to the material part, and
finally - the shooting machine guns at targets .. Two months later, it was not
the same battalion. Personnel drawn into combat training.
Officers on all matters of training began to contact me. Felt that I was starting
to gain their credibility. Specialists in my group worked well. With the
knowledge of his case. After a conversation with Sheriff Mansour, I realized
that my predecessor did not show the desire to intensify combat training,
reorganize armored forces, and generally behaved passively. Apparently so
with his departure tankers of it never remembered.
TRIP TO EL ADB.
After reading the state of armored troops in Aden, I agreed with the
commander of BTV Ali Obaid on a trip to Al-Abr. Return to the border with
Saudi Arabia in the past year has been relocated tank company of ten tanks. It
should be familiar with the situation in that area.
Early in the morning with his team and the Chief of Staff, Sheriff Mansour we
arrived at the military airport of Aden. There have already been prepared "AN-
24. Take off over the sea and walked along the shore of gaining height. Was
very interesting to observe from the top of the panorama opened. Left the
ocean stretched out parallel to the chain of mountains, and between them on
flat terrain - green agricultural areas. Right view of the ocean, where one after
the other ships sailed.

Half an hour later the plane turned around and walked toward the mountains.
The picture has changed. Brown chain of mountains without vegetation. They
have sharp outlines. Full lifelessness! Flew ridges. Before we opened the same
barren sandy desert on the horizon blends with the sky. Come to reduce and
sat on the concrete strip. We were met by the commander of a tank company
and infantry battalion commander. Let's go to the location.

Specialists with checking the technical condition of the tanks. I got acquainted
with the personnel and the vicinity of the company.
We set up two tents, one for me, Mansur, and one for professionals. We put
the camp-bed, put dirty mattresses. Make the bed sheets. The tanks were
standing in a number of well-peeled and served. Personnel living in tents.
Meters in eight of the area of the stretched rocky ridge. Sunrise rocks have
escalated, and when his side the wind blew, his face burned with hot air and it
became difficult to breathe. People wrapped in rags. Could see nothing but
eyes.
By twelve o'clock the life of a standstill. All were hiding in their tents and
stayed there until five o'clock. Armor tanks under the sun heated up so that
touching it could burn. Always thirsty. The water was warm unpleasant. I
drank hot tea.
Total area of company arrangement struck me hard and I offer them to think
about changing it.
In the evening the tents spread out on the sand tank tarpaulin. Around him was
located about twenty people. We brought the low bench. The cooks served on
trays boiled goat meat, rice pilaf, bread, herbs, fruits, set out large cups of
broth. Vivid gas lamps lit up our company. Mansoor served as an interpreter
of our quiet current conversation. Alcoholic drinks are not used. Upon
learning that we have with a bottle of whiskey, Mansour, who while studying
in Moscow, learned to drink alcohol, suggested we meet in a separate tent and
there empty it. What we did, as if during a short break.
On the morrow of a tank company had planned a march to the border with
Saudi Arabia.
At night, cool does not occur, it was also hot. Mosquitoes and small flies are
not allowed to sleep. We had to hide his head with a sheet, but it becomes
stuffy, hot and wet, we were met by then. Always felt thirsty.
Since the beginning of dawn, after breakfast, the company commander put the
crew tasks. The tanks lined up in columns. We rode in cars ahead. Tanks -
repairer came last.
Immediately detect weak train drivers. They do not have long practiced in
driving tanks. Also with the start of the march became apparent technical
difficulties. Said Dolgin parking lot without exploitation. Been violated adjust
control linkages. Stalled major clutches, friction clutches worked poorly, etc.
Column stretched. Had to stop and wait for stragglers. My expertise and
technology "TRM" worked hard to eliminate deficiencies. Meanwhile, rapidly
advancing heat. Water in the engines boil. Had to stop for their cooling.
Gradually drived restored driving skills. Major malfunction. By the end of
March the entire company gathered in the column and confidently moving
forward. By the middle of the day passed fifty kilometers and reached the
intended area.

On the hill with a stunning panorama of the distant desert, identified positions
for each tank, the sectors of observation, space for the trenches, tents, kitchen,
"TRM", a truck.

Set the task of preparing the area. It was intended to monitor the border area
and, in sensitive situations, the organization of defensive or offensive. The
same problem and had an infantry battalion, with which a tank company
should interact. In the rear were other parts of the brigade.
Erected a large tent. Its edges have raised half a meter. In the sand tank put
tarpaulin. In mid-day sun was at its zenith. It was very hot. Take a break. Lay
on the tank tarpaulin. Under the tent blew a good breeze and refreshing us.
They drank tea and coffee.
At the end of the day went by car to El ADB. Squadron of tanks left to prepare
the area.
The next day went to the Mansur district in the wells. Having covered several
miles stopped and began to watch a very interesting picture.

On the flat sandy areas in a small distance from each other, there were several
dozen wells without any barriers. Nearly everyone worked well for several
Bedouin. Two were standing, leaning over the well, and the rhythm of a
motive, in turn shifting the hands of each other rope, pulling it up. The wells
were very deep. But finally, appeared a large leather bucket with cold water.
Nearby lay rubber containers. It was the camera car, cut in half and tied at one
end. After filling with water and they are tightly bound up with the other end,
then folded to the side. And so for three days. Nearby stood a tent in which the
Bedouin resting. Far grazing herds of camels. After filling all the tanks drove
camels. They were given plenty to drink water from a special tub filled with
water loaded car camera on camels. Rented tents and formed a caravan. Closer
to sundown he slowly went into the desert, and gradually melted away.
In place of it appeared another caravan. Here it is like to the area wells, stops
and unloaded. They are met in advance envoys arrived here. They help relieve
the caravan arrived give a refreshing drink of water. Camels are led to a long
trough filled with water. They are slowly, slowly draws in the water. Napo,
distilled in the field devour thorns.
Area wells was interterritorialnym. These caravans converged from all parts of
the desert Rub al-Khali, and typing in a few days water, returned to the back.
The route was precious water, without which they would not have survived.
The territory were constructed from cardboard, tin and other available material
small booth. At the gas burners were preparing tea, coffee. We took advantage
of their services. Do not hurry, drank hot coffee. Stayed in the area for several
hours, watching the Bedouins.
For several days we are vEl-Abreu. All this time, we are plagued by
mosquitoes and small flies bestial. They circled around the nose and mouth,
fearlessly sat on his perspiring body, and painful bite. Was impossible to drive
them away. They feared nothing. Few circled, they again sat in its place.
Mosquitoes plagued at night. Flies do not give no rest day or night.
On the next day to plan your trip to the area of a tank company. It was
necessary to check how they coped with the task.
The three cars we drove along the sandy road. On the two machines placed
soldiers protection from the infantry company. Left and right have grown rare
dwarf trees. Among them are sometimes eaten by herd of goats. It was very
hot. The desert was waterless. Hearing the noise of approaching vehicles on
the road jumping woman with pots in hand. With diminishing the expression
on his face, cracked lips from the heat, they shouted to us: "My, my! (Water,
water!). We had a stock of water and they had nothing to give, and we passed.
Our military flask with water, we were tied behind their cars previously
wound with a wet rag. On the run from the wind, water with rags evaporated
and the flask cooled down a bit. Water becomes a little cool. In keeping with
long-worked-out mode, I'm in hot water or drink, gargle and made one sip.

During the trip several times given the introductory infantrymen to attack the
enemy on the right or left. Soldiers quickly out of the car and squat for
tubercles, scattered on the sides and were made to the shooting.
Tank Company has fulfilled all its objectives. The tanks were in the trenches,
camouflaged Masset. Tents are equipped so as to remain out of sight of the
desert.
However, Sheriff Mansour organized classes. They announced an alarm
company. The crew quickly took their places, dropped the gun, set up radio
communications. Reported on their readiness. Mansour filed an introduction
on the radio at the destruction of the enemy. Crews sent the gun to these
guidelines, opened fire on a conditional conditional goals. Reported on the
radio about the destruction of the enemy. This went on for over an hour. Then
the company was tasked to move to the offensive end and defeat the enemy.
The crews of the tanks withdrew from the trenches, the chosen route turned
into a fighting line and attacked the conventional enemy, the remnants of
which fled to the territory of Saudi Arabia. The tanks returned to the place.
With staff conducted a review study. Crew for their good actions announced
gratitude. The actions a company, we were satisfied.

According to the decisions taken at the positions for duty was only one tank
platoon. He had to interact with an infantry company, was situated nearby.
After a month of duty platoon will be replaced by another tank platoon.
These activities were to maintain high combat readiness in the company.
Evening at the farewell dinner, we had a long talk with the officers of the
tanks and infantry battalion. They were interested in life in the Soviet Union.
Asked many questions. I answered them. Mansour translated.

The morning drove to the airstrip. We accompanied Yemenis. We appreciate

your assistance and invited to come more often.
From the mountains came the roar of the aircraft. Appeared and he himself.
Landed. We said goodbye and climbed into the AN-24. As soon as the boys
rushed to Backa with cold water. They drank and could not quench my thirst.
Take off and, making a semicircle, headed toward the mountains. County of El
Abra disappeared behind horizon.
On arrival at Aden Konstantin reported on the visit.
After about a month from the El Abra said that tank crews fired at convoy of
vehicles that appeared on the horizon from Saudi Arabia. Broke several trucks
of American "Fargo." After some time, some of these cars (doors, hood, etc.)
were taken to Aden and exhibited in the museum.

COLLECTION OF NEW PARTY TANKS T-34.

In early February, the Soviet freighter arrived with a party of tanks T-34. We
Ali Obaid went to the port. There have already been prepared by two large raft
and tow boats. The ship was three hundred meters from the shore. Conditions
for unloading at the pier was not. On the barge reached the boat and the rope
ladder up to the deck. Technicians with the machinists went into the hold, and
began to prepare for the unloading of tanks. By evening completed all
preparations. The first raft moored alongside the ship.

When darkness began to discharge. Switched on bright lights. With the ship's
jib crane lowered steel cables. The team fixes them for the hooks on the tanks
and give the signal. Powerful crane lifted out of the womb holds the tank and
gently lowered it to the raft. There it was attached securely and towed to shore.
Cranes tank was loaded on the trailer and took them to the base. During this
time, was loaded on the second raft. Gradually work to normal.

Captain Chekin invited me to his cabin. We met. The ship arrived from the
port of Odessa. The captain himself Chekin too was from Odessa. Had a great
navigation experience. I have visited many ports in the world. Before
midnight, treating me, telling anecdotes, mostly from Odessa. Since we were
his assistants, some left, others came. The table was richly served. Included
the tape-recorder. Sounded Odessa underworld songs. Hearing that I was
going to write songs, the captain called chief of communications. He had
dozens of reels of recordings that are made in different ports of Asia. We have
agreed with him that tomorrow I'll bring a radio cassette player and rewrite the
most interesting songs.

Expedite the preparation of a tank battalion.

In mid-January have a new 1972 we began to transport tanks from Aden in
Salah al-Din. Delivered to the base of all available crews and under the
guidance of specialists, they began to prepare the material part. Was a big job.
At night in the trailer tanks transported in a specially prepared area training
center.

10 tanks, we have put in a line with an interval of 5 meters for fire training.
Another 10 tanks installed in a number of separate training for mechanics,
drivers. Others moved to the park military vehicles. They made a reserve for
replacement of defective tanks.
Where do we get the personnel to form a crew? He was not! Exit found.
The Ministry of Defense organized the delivery of our orphans, children dead
revolutionaries, the children of peasants, Bedouin, from families with many
children aged 15-18 years. They were thin emaciated, hungry guys. We placed
them in tents, and immediately began to feed them well.
We have created a selection committee. They called the guys in turn. They
asked questions such as these:
- Why do you want in the army?
-To protect the people and the revolution against the imperialists!
-Who is Salmin Roubaix Ali?
- Our leader and the president!
A who Lenin?
Lenin, the leader of the world revolution!
- Well done! You're adopted!
They wanted to get into the army. And when they announced that enrolled in
the tankers, their pride was no limit. Ultimately, we all took were assigned to
crews, platoons and the companies. Appointed commander of the mouth.
Platoon commanders to them define the best sergeants, who were then
assigned to the officer ranks.
Engaged in intensive studies. K 6. 00 to my house was driving the car. We as a
group were going to set up camp. To our arrival, all three tank companies were
built. Personnel raised at five o'clock in the morning and spent fizzaryadku.
From seven to nine sessions. Then an hour break for lunch. We went to him
and came back after lunch.

Methodology of accelerated, intensive training of tank crews of the young

guys are not used in any unit of the Army of the Soviet Army. I went to her
practice of a large number of studies with tank crews. In his role as a platoon
leader, company commander I have not thought about planning, not looked
into the program training. He tried to carry out the schedule. In his role as
Deputy Chief of Staff and Chief of Staff of the regiment, I had plans to engage
in combat training. I found a lot of unnecessary programs in the husk.
Calculation of classes on the subject was given a formal education, without
regard to educational facilities and training materiel.
In a few years and I, working in the Directorate of combat training in the
software department, developing programs for armored units fought with the
usual formalism. We had to argue with the formalists. I have been supporters.
Something - what has been correct, but to radically change the situation failed.
And now I have an opportunity to act on their own.
For training, we have identified 20 of the forty transported tanks. Crew. Tank
commanders took from the first operational battalion to make place for the
gunners. In post gunners defined charging. At the vacant seats from among the
loaders were preparing a new replenishment. In the vacant places platoon
commanders have put sergeants. In post zampotehov mouth - the most
experienced driver-mechanic. Thus, made personnel changes in the existing
battalion and consolidated their orders.

Equipped area studies. Front elevation and hills on the left - the sea. For
lessons on shooting training delivered 10 tanks in a line to firing positions.
This educational place? 1. Behind ten meters installed tables, spread out on
their tank guns, stores and ammunition. This educational place? 2. Another set
back 10 meters stands with posters on the device arms. This educational
place? 3.

In the field against the backdrop of rolling hills set goals for each tank in the
form of empty iron barrels. In the field of view designated landmarks:? 1, No.
2, "3, devoted to terrain. Same time by three companies without a driver-
mechanic. One company worked on the tanks. Others were involved in
disassembly and assembly of machine guns, gear shops, setting them on the
machine guns. A third company on the placards studied device armament.
Consistently companies are interchanged. Trained crews of the newly
appointed commanders of tanks and trainers. On the eve of each day's lessons
to my specialists are ready.

On the first day of the young guys showed what should be done in the "Call to
action!". They are without haste to fulfill all actions, gradually increasing the
speed and confidence. On the second day they were taught the treatment of
gun sight, with vision blocks. On the third day of training began in earnest. At
the command "To arms!" he flew on the tank, took their places and perform
the command: Guns up. Guns down. Guns up, right. Guns down the left. Guns
on a landmark one. Guns on the landmark second, etc. The crews of vehicles!
Replaced by an area. Gunner vary with the loader. To arms! Everything
repeats. During the training charge the charging barrel gun, gun store, report is
ready! All repeated long hours again. Tank commander trains his crew. The
platoon commander - his platoon. The lieutenant in command of a company.

At this time, the second company involved in disassembly and assembly of

machine guns, equipment, ammunition stores. Gradually the steps brought to
automaticity. Compete in speed, blindfolded.
A third company on the placards studied device guns, shooting methods and
rules, filing and execution of commands and target designation.
On the fourth day ogneviki started shooting at targets with single shots from a
gun. This went on for two weeks from early morning until nightfall, with a
break in the hottest time of 13 to 17 o'clock. During this period, had lunch and
rested in the tents.

All future of mechanics, drivers were engaged in ten tanks under the direction
of my professional zampotehov mouth and operating engineers - the drivers.
On the first day studying the overall device of the tank, the location of units,
the sequence zavodki engine, the use of levers and other issues. Driver-
mechanic of the first and second company took their seats in the tanks and
consistently mastered the basics of driving. Driver-mechanic from the third
company disclosed the location of transmission was studied aggregates, means
fuel, oil and water and other issues.
Already on the second day they were shown how to break the caterpillars.
When the broken tracks started training in zavodke engines, gear shift, using
the main clutch, the mountain brake pedal, fuel supply, the levers of control.
Long hours every company interchanged. Abide by the rules and the gradual
increase of complexity. This went on for a week. In the second week in tanks
assembled, pulled and adjusted the track. I began to practice driving on the
road.
Practiced starting in first gear, stop, again starting in place. At the beginning of
the main friction clutch, then with the levers. Take short rotations. And so the
whole day. On the second day learn to shift gears from first to second and vice
versa. Moving on the road in second gear and you must turn.
We were engaged in the crew, platoon and company. Tank commander
internal intercom served the driver commands. Instructors were sitting next to
the trainees and tells you how to act. Gunner trained in building shells at a
target. Charging - to load the weapons and surveillance. Shortly interchanged.
The second company as a whole was engaged in tank-infantry training with
shooting vintpatronami.
The third company of the crews engaged in tactical drill method of "walking
on the Tank." Nomination issues were being worked out, keeping a distance,
the deployment of a platoon column, the battle line. Then rebuild in the
company column. The terrain for tactical training has been specially prepared.
Done tanks tracks. We put signs direction. Marked the frontiers of
deployment.
A half hour recess for half an hour. The companies were reversed and training
continued. In the hour of the day classes were stopped. We ate and rested until
five o'clock.
Within an hour preparing for the next day of classes: instruct, serving the
technology, talked with the guys. In their eyes burning enthusiasm. They
quickly grasped all, engaged with great enthusiasm. The boys got into a new
world. Their hearty fed. They are not considered difficult.
Somewhere in the middle of the third week in the early morning, about half of
the eighth, when there were intensive classes, seemed to cars. She moved
toward us. We alert. The car drove up. From it emerged chief of staff. The
commander told him. We greeted each other. He watched with great interest
for the lessons, asking questions. Talked to Ali Obeid. I asked what help is
needed. When the chief of staff had left Ali Obaid said that he was very
pleased. He promised to provide us another "Land-Rover."
About our classes have already spoken in the town. Against the background of
a relaxing and quiet study gunners, college, training center, we stood out their
activity and violent activities.
She went to the fourth week. We continued intensive training. But now we
have been much easier. All have become deeply involved in training, acquired
skills, some knowledge, priterlis to each other in the newly formed crews,
platoons and battalions. All week spent driving in the crew in conjunction with
the tactics and fire training. By the end of the week we made a small march in
the battalion, concentrated in the park combat vehicles and to service the
tanks.
The next day, worked the action of the battalion on alert with zavodkoy
engines, but without the movement of tanks. The method of "walking the
tank" with keeping a distance moved to the area of concentration. Returned to
the park, had a review and set objectives to address the deficiencies.
Then I said to Ali Obeid, that we are ready to invite the Minister of Defense
(also known as the Prime Minister of the country) and show him a new tank
battalion. Ali Obaid went to the Ministry of Defense. In the evening he came
to my house (our house stood side by side) and said that the day after Ali
Nasser Mohammed and his deputies will come to us. We have carefully
prepared for this.
In the morning on April 27, all were in the park military vehicles. Crews stood
in front of their tanks. At several "Land-Rover" arrived Defense Minister and
the accompanying officers. Ali Obaid gave the command and reported to the
Minister. Nasser Mohammed with all of us greeted with curiosity looked at the
crew, standing lane tanks. Some of the crews he approached, and asked
questions. They cheerfully answered. Finally he asked the commander: then
what? More Battalion of the alarm. Allow me to begin? All this, of course, in
Arabic.
Sounded the command "To arms!". Crews flew up to the tanks, started the
engines. Above the park hanging cloud of smoke from the exhaust gases.
Company commanders ran up to the commander. He briefly put his problems.
We offered to go to Nasser concentration area and from there to monitor the
actions of the battalion.
After driving miles and a half, climbed the hill. There have been prepared in
advance benches and tables. From the gates of the park began to leave the first
tanks. Having gone ahead, they waited for the other approach. Each company
was shown before the designated location of the head of the column. We all
watched as the tanks lined up in one big column of battalions, as she, raising
clouds of dust, moved forward.
The first company reinvented itself in the line of platoon columns, then
expanded into a battle line, and then again reinvented itself into a column.
Second, followed by a third company also undertook to rebuild those. Before
we all rehearsed on foot and were placed in the right places pointers.
Battalion at good speed, very dusty, passed us. Commanders mouth, standing
in the commander's hatches, turning his head in our direction and, putting his
hand to her, saluted the Minister.
Passed last tank. Far on the horizon battalion made a big loop back to the old
way and began to approach us. And finally, all tanks, covered with dust, lined
up in front of us. Engine is stopped, the commander of the battalion ran up to
the Minister and announced the readiness of the battalion to carry out combat
missions.

To say that Nasser Mohammed was pleased, therefore, to say nothing. In his
eyes burned with a flame. The battalion was given the command to return to
the park, while they themselves went to the headquarters and filled the office
of Ali Obaid. There were coffee, Pepsi - Cola, Coca - Cola.
The Prime Minister asked us all a lot of questions. Sheriff Mansour was an
interpreter. After a long conversation Nasser Ali Obaid said that for any
assistance call directly to him. He takes patronage over the armored units. It
was on April 27, and already 30-second messenger brought us a thank you
letter from the Prime Minister. This was the first such awards advisers.
Perhaps, and the last.
I reported on a letter to the Chief Adviser. Konstantin was satisfied. The fact
that the leaders of the Democratic Republic of Yemen focused on the USSR,
and some - in China, with whom we have had a strained relationship. His
supporters were, for example, the president Roubaix Ali, secretary general
Fattah Ismail, commander of the Army, Ali Antar, and others. For us it was
important to change their orientation in our favor. Therefore, any success of
the adviser, the specialist raised the credibility of our entire team. Yes, Chief
Adviser to become easier to communicate with the Minister of Defense.
At a regular meeting of the Chief Adviser work tank set an example to all. I
told him about our future plans. We were going over the next two months to
prepare the newly established battalion and hold him flashy tactical exercises
with live firing. The task was very difficult, but we were hoping for success.
Konstantin said that if all will turn well, then take a big step in relations with
South Yemen.

Tactical Exercises tank battalion live-fire.

All the months of May and June, we continued to improve the combat training
battalion. Tankostrelkovye training conducted at the firing range, driving
military vehicles - on the tank ranges. We did not have classes, so the material
of the tank, weapons, rules of operation and maintenance of mastered directly
on the tanks, prepared for this purpose. Half of the studies carried out
separately for the professions and the other half - in a complex consisting of
crews. They learned to hit a target with machine guns with short stops.
Acquired skills to work in the radio and the internal intercom system. The last
three weeks have begun to simulate subjects battalion exercises.
I defined the theme: "The tank battalion in the attack on the defending enemy
with a nomination from the depths." Three kilometers from the forward
positions of selected reference area. From him the nomination marked the
route of the battalion, put pointers to deployment in the company column, then
- in the platoon, and marked the boundary of transition to the attack. Tanks
have done a track.

At this time, a special team equipped the ground. On the trucks were being
taken to landfills empty iron barrel and the old truck. Made into the target.
Each target of four to five barrels. It took two weeks. During this time,
company commanders worked through the issues of nomination and the
deployment method of "walking on the Tank." Everyone had a chance to go
on foot from the source area to the turn of the attack, then the polygon to its
goals.

In the last week engaged in the tanks. Implemented the nomination,

deployment, and stop at the turn of opening fire. Here, the whole battalion
would stop, every tank in its place. Engines jammed with cars and lined up.
You downloaded ammunition and firing performed with short stops. At the
last training session done by one shot from guns standard missiles.
When we discussed with the commander of security, decided to play safe.
The fact is that at the command post equipped on the hill, had to attend the
country's leaders, officers from the Ministry of Defense, the military attache.
If the ammunition loaded into the tanks in the source area, and then put
forward in the direction of the command post, there will be danger of
inadvertent or deliberate shot. The probability of this is very small, but it is
better not to risk it.
By the end of last week, everything was ready. Ali Obaid went to the ministry.
I reported Konstantin readiness. Ali Obaid came back and said that the day
after tomorrow will come and all Rubeyya President and Prime Minister Ali
Nasser Mohammed invited the military attaches. Of course, we hung a huge
responsibility.

On the appointed day I was with his team early in the morning went to the
source region.
The tank battalion was in the company columns. Personnel already
breakfasted and built. The officers put him to task, gave final instructions.
Answered questions. All tanks before were checked for technical condition.
The guns and machine guns were cleaned from the lubricant, verified and
being shot.
We all felt the tank high combat spirit and desire to act.
Check the readiness of the battalion I was with a group went to the command
post.
Some fifty meters from the manual we have been equipped with an
observation post. Arranged tables and benches. Inserted booth, which sported
a large color scheme - a plan exercises. Above it work well Evgeny Kozlov, a
great master of painting and write beautifully. About the scheme was a
commander Ali Obaid with a pointer in hand and trained to report to the
exercises. Before we had good work out.
Since NP is easily visible polygon. Were numerous purposes. Source line for
shooting the entire front of the offensive was signposted, with the notation of
numbers of tanks, so that each has taken its place. Some pointers right on the
sand lying on some boxes with artvystrelami. They - filled with shops for
guns.

Far away from the headquarters BTV seemed a large column of cars. When
they arrived and left the car Ali Obaid gave a loud command, and reported to
the President's willingness to exercise. They all got up the hill and is located
opposite the circuit with curiosity, looking stand. Ali Obaid with a pointer in
hand, loudly announced the theme and plan of exercises. Someone from the
military attaché asked about the battalion. In terms of where it came from you?
After all, it did not exist. Ali Obaid said that the battalion was formed only
three months ago and went through intensive training. His answer greatly
fueled the curiosity of those present. After the report, he announced the
exercises.
I observed him watching while on KP. Seeing the prearranged signal, said
Mansour: we begin, let's team. On radio went off the team "to battle!" and it
all started.

In the distance, picking up dust, tanks appeared. In the eyes of all, they
regrouped in the company column, then - in the platoon, and half a kilometer
from us turned into a fighting line.
The battalion deployed in battle formation at the front than a mile and
continued to move the line of opening fire. When he reached, all the tanks
stopped dead. On radio Mansour gave the command to silence the engines. All
crews performed it at the time. Sounded the team "The machines". Crews flew
from cars and lined up behind them. "Download ammunition. Ammunition
loaded, crews behind the machines. All agog. Finally, the command "To
arms!". Shut the hatches, earned engines, guns have fallen to a horizontal
position.
How to make all the tanks moved forward at a time? We rehearsed this
question. Following the report of the company commanders on the readiness
of Mansour on radio slowly began to count: vahyd (one), itnen, Tagliata,
bullock cart, Hamsa, Sitta, Saab, Taman, yew, and a little pause, Achard!,
Kudam! kudam! kudam! (Forward!). Since the beginning of reference
included the first mechanical transmission and squeezed the main friction
clutch pedal. As the team forward was released by adding the gas pedal. The
entire battle line of the battalion moved forward simultaneously. It was
beautiful, impressive.

I want to emphasize that, besides general Gorelenkova no one ever saw such
exercises. On the territory of Yemen, they were the first time.

Thirty tanks almost simultaneously opened fire with guns. High-explosive

shells exploded, vzmetaya barrels and skeletons of cars. It flared pillar of
flame and black smoke appeared. (Eve to enhance the effect of each of the
target we have set a bucket of fuel.). Proving ground was covered with clouds
of dust and smoke. Almost all gun targets were destroyed. Started shooting
with machine guns. Destroyed the enemy's infantry in the trenches.
The battalion crossed the enemy's defensive positions and stopped. Mansour
on radio gave the order to defuse the weapons and to report. Then the battalion
was tasked to pursue the retreating enemy and complete his destruction. The
companies on the move re-formed in battalion columns and pursued the
enemy to horizon. Then the battalion turned left, made a wide detour and went
on the road leading to the command post. The column stopped in front of us.
Stop the engine. Gradually the dust settled. The battalion commander, you
climb out of the tank, went to the commander and reported on the performance
of combat tasks.

All the observed drove out to inspect the target. They walked among the
scattered explosions empty barrels of old buildings and cars and talking
animatedly among themselves.
Exercises completed collated and presentation of gifts to outstanding.
Received gifts and members of my team. In a gift package includes a bottle of
whiskey and gin and cartons of cigarettes. But I received nothing.
Ali Obaid told me that Rubeyya Ali Nasser Mohammed and go to his
headquarters. Invite me. In the study by Ali Obaid perched on stools. He
secretly told me that is forgotten in the adjutant's office by the President
presents intended for me, and dashed off to Aden for them. This twenty-five
miles there and back forty.

We talked on the topic of further development of armored forces. Finally, the

president drove a Ford. The adjutant made packages with gifts. Rubeyya Ali
handed them to me and with a soft warmth in his voice, thanked for the good
work. He asked whether there were any requests. Sheriff Mansour easily
translated. I told the president that in his work, we rely on the good officers of
Yemenis and use them to conduct training. But for nearly a month since lost
my best assistant to Lieutenant Omar Saleh. It was rumored that he was
arrested. My request that it be carefully sorted out. I am sure that he in no way
guilty and betrayed by their government.

Mansour translated. There was a cautious silence. Here we want to make a

digression. In Yemen, there are cases when officers suddenly disappeared.
They found themselves either in jail or executed. It was the opaque power
struggle between several factions. They headed Rubeyya Ali Nasser
Mohammed and Fatah Ismail. Their supporters tried to get rid of their
opponents, and did so quietly, unnoticed. The man disappeared and all.
Discussions on this topic suppressed. All of this I have no idea. I learned much
later. Mansour secretly told me that Omar Saleh was imprisoned and probably
executed.

After my request to the person the president has changed. He asked with a hint
of resentment at the Mansour: Why adviser intervenes, as it is not in their
affairs? In his study hangs a tense silence. Mansour very sensibly told the
president that the lieutenant Omar Saleh was the most competent officer who
worked hard and helped advisers. They have with them have good relations.
He is needed for armored troops. Rubeyya Ali promised to look into the
matter. (In a few days and I will say that Omar Saleh was released, he is now
recovering after prison, and soon arrive at the service).
By giving gifts and speaking with us, the leaders of the country left. We
Konstanty drove me and noted our success.
Authority advisers in their eyes and in the opinion of those present at the
exercises of military stronger.
In parsing exercises present leadership of the country and the military attache
On one couch on the left of the President and the Prime Minister decides on
the right
issues with the head of the college.

Armored troops have increased by one tank battalion. This is not going to
stop. From Union expects new shipments of tanks.
Soon a squadron of tanks was sent to strengthen Infantry Brigade, stationed in
the area Kharaz, near the Bab al-Mandab Strait

MARCH IN EL ADB. July 1972.

PREPARATIONS FOR THE MARCH.
In connection with the increase on the border with Saudi Arabia, Southern
Yemen Government has decided to transfer to E-Abr tank company in
addition to the already existing there one company. They began preparing to
perform essential tasks. We had to make a 800 kilometer march. We had a
large-scale map. We have studied on her route. We had to walk through the
sandy desert in the very hot weather, to overcome the mountain barriers, go to
the beach I asked the participants in detail the previous March, examined the
experiences and outlined some adjustments.

We had two trawlers with Soviet diesel trucks. We decided on them to carry
tanks on the section of road with asphalt. Our plan area of concentration
within fifty miles from Aden on the outskirts of Zandzhibara. This is a big
green agricultural area.
Moved tanks into the area of concentration. They sent the tank-repair shop,
trucks carrying food, tents, ammunition, fuel, clothing and other things.
Undertook preparatory work and waited for the government team for
relocation.

The tanks were loaded on the trailer directly into the park, maintain, provide
technical support, maintenance and management of complex sections of the
road. Traveled early in the morning, but outside the city have been better. The
transport tanks lasted ten days.
Personnel of going to live in the new location. Took away all their personal
belongings. The column is formed in the area of concentration.

Land along the coast length of 350-400 km. identified pass for four transitions
of 70-100 km. each. On the fifth day, we must turn to the mountains, cross the
passes, go through the valley of Hadramawt, to overcome a desert. Over the
four stages to go about 400 km. Total to pass about 800 km.

MARCH.
The first day of the march. We are the commander and his expertise early in
the morning went to the area of concentration. He was on the outskirts
Zanzhibara. Check the readiness of the column to march, instructed the crews,
officers placed the problem. Column to the movement was ready. Started the
nomination. Ahead of Land-Rover went to the commander of the officers, I
am with my band at the GAZ-67 pick-up - for him. Behind us were the tanks,
"TRM" (tank-repair workshop) and trucks.
The road along the beach was relatively good. They waited ebb and went on
the wet, thick, bare sandy shore. Tanks maximum speed. There was no dust.
Sometimes met stiff volcanic lava. Have to pull to the left on the sand and
make a detour of several kilometers.
Periodically they stopped, waiting for stragglers and pulled up the whole
column. Then continue.
Never in his career I do not have to drive a tank column directly on the beach.
Sometimes the left caterpillar travel along the wet dense sand, and splashed
right in sea water.
It was a good route. The main thing - there was a cloud of dust that enveloped
the column, when we were walking on dry sand.
Along the shore of 100-200 meters and ran kolleyny way. He
50-100 meters wide. The whole width of the traces of the rare cars. Collin was
not permanent. When the wind blew it covered with sand. In this way the
column
walking was difficult. Raised clouds of dust. She sacrificed vision devices.
Persons crews, especially the driver, was not dismantled. Allocated white teeth
and red eyes.
By the middle of the day I felt a pain in my lower back. I could not understand
why she appeared. Sweat? Dry? The wind? From food? Binary heat. Wet
body. Wind from the sea. It was impossible to even sit. At the slightest shake-
up occurred severe pain. I was in a quandary. Had to rely on the seat with his
hands to cushion shaking. The pain in his kidneys. In this state, to make the
long march can not. The fact that it was colic, I learned a year later, when I
was hospitalized.

Passed about 80 km. and made the first halt. Camp. The chefs have to cook
dinner. Crews led by professionals to correct technical problems arising in the
tanks after their long stay in the hangars without exploitation. Adjustment was
carried out with drives gearbox, swing mechanism, onboard and the main
friction clutches, removed the leaking water, pulled up tracks and much more.
We gathered with the commander and officers of our specialists, conducted
the analysis and identify further challenges.
I was given a separate tent. They collected the English cot. When the sun
started dinner. I was invited. Having learned from experience I did not linger.
At pilaf assaulted pieces of meat, they had to quickly pick up. Who has time.
Hungry for the day, crews will proceed immediately to the food. Just
unwashed hands scraped pilaf, dipped in gravy and sent in his mouth.
Remaining food was laid to bury in the ground.
In a large kettle was preparing tea. They did not brewed and cooked. Adding
condensed milk. Is much more tasty beverage. Poured into large plastic mug.
Spoon was just me. I always kept it in his pocket. The first call, like everyone
else, sat down on his heels, got her a few times, and scooped out the food.
Then he thanked all - "shukran" and went into the tent, where I brought her
food separately. To refuse an invitation to the overall meal was impossible to
be offended.
As for my spoon laughed, saying that she was not wanted. God gave hands to
ensure that they could eat.

After eating in a tent pilaf and washing it down with strong tea, I pulled out
after dark, a cot out of the tent and settled under the open sky.
Pain subsided. Into the night could not sleep. I was lying on his back and
stared at the dark, thickly dotted with lush bright stars sky. Not a single cloud.
In feet over the ocean was the Southern Cross. On the northern horizon, Big
Dipper slowly swirled around the polar star. Peering into the bottomless
depths of "Milky Way", I thought about the universe, of life on earth, on other
worlds. What is the place we occupy in it? As we are infinitely insignificant
compared to him! Feeling of detachment consumed me and I fell asleep.
Middle of the night woke up and saw the same place and the Southern Cross
and the North Star. However, the bucket of the Great Bear has fallen behind
the mountains. And so during the night woke up several times.
On the sand, rustling, ran lizards, scorpions and mice.

The second day of the march. Dawn was approaching. Kitchens fuss cook.
Caught fire fires. There were teams, fuss people. Before sunrise breakfast.
Then turned the tent was removed after a rest area and buried in the sand
waste.

The column was built. Postroili crew. Reminded objectives and compliance
with rules on the march. I did not interfere in that. Ali Obaid told me that the
movement was ready. He inquired about my health. I said that the pain
subsided.
Sounded team. All rushed to the cars. We have two cars went to the head of
the column and went along the route. The column moved us. We planned to go
70 miles and make camp in the village Ahvar.

Continued the march. I was going to "GAZ-69" followed by "Land-Rover"

Said.
Our jeep in the desert proved to be better, "Land-Rover" and held other times
where he stuck.
We moved through a narrow valley, a width of 3.10 kilometers, sandwiched
between the sea and mountain range. It was a green agricultural area. Product
breadbasket of the country. Vegetables are grown year round. Hence the
greens were taken to Aden and other cities. The area adjacent to the coast,
consisted mainly of Rakushechny of sand. Villages were located closer to the
mountains. At the seaside fishing villages met. They were constructed from all
sorts of available material and were very miserable. On the shore were dried in
the sun along the cut shark carcasses. Near stacks - have already dried. On the
shore of large boats.

The sun rose over his head and zharilo mercilessly. The road was difficult.
Walked along the sand in a cloud of dust. Again came the pain and all the
stronger. Had to relax shaking, leaning his hands on the seat. So to continue
the march, I could not. In another context, on the radio, Ali Obeid, Chief of
Staff reported about my illness. He offered to send me a plane. I must decide
before the evening radio, because after Ahvara no landing strips for aircraft,
and radio will not.
We came across the counter trucks Japanese and American brands. They were
loaded up to the top zavyalennymi shark carcasses outwardly similar to the
wood. They were transported to markets. They are very appreciated.
Separately sold fins. They bought the pilgrims. In his long pilgrimage way
they eat shark fins, which were light in weight and very high in calories.
At the march in very hot weather all thirsty. It was necessary to rinse your
mouth and drink water. However, a month of Ramadan and it could be done
only after sunset. The crews were ready to break the religious right, but they
were not given water to drink. Company commander and the commander Ali
Obaid were very religious, strictly comply with the requirements of the Koran.
Young was not nearly as religious as the commanders of the old leaven.

By mid-afternoon we arrived at the locality Ahvar, place of our halt. It was

one of the centers of agricultural production based on irrigation system. It
worked for our team from Azerbaijan, which was engaged in the construction
of irrigation canals. Me, as the patient, settled in their two-story house in a
separate room.
I was lying on the iron bed and suffered pain. By the evening I met Azeris. We
quickly made friends. They spoke about their work. Have lived here for three
years families. Upon learning of my distress, they called their doctor. He
examined me and gave some pills. He said that they will help. We had a long
conversation. I told him about the service in Nakhichevan and Baku. Ali
Obaid said of his decision to continue the march.
By morning the pain is really stopped.
On the third day, good-bye to our Azeri experts, started off. Passed about 100
km. and stopped near the settlement of El Hauri. Night. Again I admired the
night bottomless dense star-studded sky. It does not happen clouds. In
southern Arabia rains extreme rarity - two or three times a year.
The fourth day of the march. We were on the difficult road about 120 km.
without significant delays. They made a last halt on the beach at the fishing
village of El Hasi.

Along the beach under the auspices of the UN on several sections of the
Chinese built roads. They had to bring it to Mukalla.

5.6 days of the march. We turned to the mountains and went to the dry river
bed towards Hajr Al-Gabra. It was the depression between the ridges of
mountains. We went from the sea. Change the conditions of the march. Ahead
of us expected steep climbs and descents, serpentines, sparse settlements. If
Sea heat was one hundred percent humidity, the front of the pass, the heat will
dry.

At many sites, instead of the precarious road ruts dry sand. When the motion
raises clouds of dust. If the wind lateral move tolerated. If the counter - a
column of strongly stretched, well go only to the first tank. But if the fair
wind, to move accounts as in the milk. Mechanics, drivers are forced to go
with open hatches, as triplexes quickly captures sand and dust. Through the
open hatch sucked air flow and better engine cooling. The air must cool the
radiator with water. However, warm, and more hot air and ill-cooled. Engines
were heated up to over a hundred degrees, water boils and often had to stop to
cool them. This condition was primarily that limited amount of daily transition
columns.

The mountains were bare, without trees and without greenery, mostly rocky.
Hard, rocky soil. She grew up in places mainly prickly bushes.
Every day, mechanics, drivers become more confident in myself. By mid-
March, passed 300-400 kilometers, it has been completely different people:
very tired, but happy and ready to overcome any difficulties. More recently,
we recruited young boys, skinny and hungry, as a rule, orphans, children of
revolutionaries who died in the struggle for revolution. Regular meals,
exercise, work on the tanks have strengthened them. They grew up in her eyes.
Short halt, to cool down the engines of tanks. Beside me, smiling chief of staff
of Armored Forces Lieutenant Said, his driver and radio operator. Right on the
gas burner cook tea.
The mood of all spirits. Following a short rest went on, climbing higher and
higher into the mountains. On the way to the left in the distance saw the
palace. He stood aside from the route and we did not go to him.
Gone are twenty kilometers and the convoy had to stop. We flew Thirty-one
water pump and poured water. Mechanic driver to stop the engine. With strong
heat of the engine cool down for a long time. In South Yemen water, which
filled up the cooling system, contains many salts and is very aggressive
towards the metal. Most suffer impeller water pumps and gaskets. They are
completely or partially destroyed it
While repairing the tank, I went with a camera to one of the stone towers.
Once upon a time there ran the caravan route and for its protection from
robbers were built of stone watchtowers. Now they have lost their significance
and remained standing dilapidated monuments of that era.
From the tower offers a magnificent panorama. Japanese camera "Minolta"
took a few pictures. Ahead see the mountains that we had to overcome. They
were rocky and the bright sun greatly worsened. Wind blowing on their part,
was dry and very hot.
In the center of the road is our column. On the sublime vision of a small town.
The tower height is about 10 meters was already half-ruined, but the majestic,
formidable and could be seen at a distance.
Repairmen replaced the water pump and we went on.
Away from the sea at 80-90 km. They went to the locality of El Gabra, located
near the foothills, and made a halt. The area was green. There was water,
growing date palm and other trees. Could see the gardens. It was a good place
- an oasis in the desert.

Tanks were placed on a flat surface in the form of a square. Inside set up the
tents.
Serviced equipment. The chefs have to cook dinner. Sun began to set. We are
Ali and Saeed Obaid stood and discussed plans. At this time, to us from the
village went to a group of residents. We were interested to observe them. The
leader was in front, ten men behind him. When they approached us to look at
them. They were dressed in colorful clothes.
Particularly distinguished small stature, thin very dark leader. From it came a
tart smell of some perfumes. From bandage on his head stuck up pretty big
feather. For fabric belt on the stomach - a large, beautifully encrusted dagger
curve Gainer. Very respectfully, he welcomed us. Adverb, which he said
differed from the usual Aden. But to explain everything - still could. The chief
invited us to visit. We politely declined. He offered any assistance, vegetables,
fruit. Agreed that they will be delivered to the camp.

The sun sank behind the horizon. We started dinner. Personnel located at the
tents. Many were included transistors. Suddenly a loud enthusiastic cries
announced area. They long continued. It turns out, the radio announced the
end of the fasting month of Ramadan. That night the Muslim world will not
sleep. I did not sleep and our camp. They sang songs, ate fruit, drank tea and
coffee.
The next day, about any continuation of the march there could be no.
Everyone wanted to continue to rest in the area. We also had to rest. The day
passed. In the evening again to sing songs and continued to celebrate. Ali
Obaid said that all are asked to rest for three days. Had included me. I walked
many, talked. I explained that we can no longer be delayed. Aden watching
our march. The question of how we finish it - the question of our prestige,
pride, which we measure the tankers. With great difficulty, but I managed to
persuade all tomorrow morning to continue the march.

7 day of the march. Morning struck camp, pulled the column, set tasks. A
movement on the mountain sites. Immediately begin a steep slope, 30-35
degrees. I reminded the driver how to drive on the ascent and descent. Warned
of the distance between them. The fact that so far ahead of the tank will not
overcome the ongoing recovery in a straight alignment, we must stand and
wait their turn. Rise to the first or second gear. On the steep mountain slopes
to enjoy and use the brake for braking the motor.
I sat in the head tank next to the driver-mechanic on the seat of the arrow-
radio operator. He suggested the driver, if he himself is not sure, give me a
place. He smiled, and the remnant refused. Behind him is situated gunner.
Tank commander stood in the tower driver started the tank, we went to the
second gear to rise, shifted to first and started to climb. I followed closely to
ensure that the tank, if the stall the engine did not start to slide down. If they
gather momentum, it has brakes will not hold. He will carry back down.

Hundred meters climbed straight, then began the turns and serpentines. After
the rise and coming on top of the ridge, we stopped and waited for the others.
Appeared a second tank, the third. All have successfully overcome the first
rise. This was important, as drivers gained experience and feel confidence.
Collecting column, we went on as usual. I moved into his jeep. The march
proceeded normally without the usual cloud of dust.

Overcame downs, held the plateau and started to descend into the valley. At
one of the serpentine a driver failed to turn. The tank came down the road,
began to slide down into the gorge and stopped at the critical limit. Further
down is impossible, you can collapse down. The column halted. All were
alarmed. I climbed into the tank. Driver-mechanic and gunner seated on the
right were calm. The driver pressed his foot on the mountain brake and tried to
turn back the transfer. Failed. He gave me a place.

I had a great experience driving tanks in mountainous conditions, including

tridtsatchetverok. Holding tank mountain brake, clutch. Together with the
mechanic and a hammer could turn back the transfer. Started the engine, took
both of the control lever to the limit for yourself, let the mountain brake. Now
the big moment: you, releasing the clutch pedal, simultaneously and
synchronously right lower arm to the starting position and increase the engine
speed. Tank twice as easy to start moving back a caterpillar. All engine power
is transmitted to it. At the same time, he begins to unfold.

Realizing that the tank slid back sharply increased the pace and lowered the
second lever. Tank slowly, but quickly came back. Once out on the
Serpentine, including the second transfer and took the tank down the road.
After the ill-fated serpentine she was on the trigger, but straight without turns.
I switched to high gear and we raced at top speed. Having gone from half a
mile, stopped and waited for the entire column. Crews came to us. They began
to question the driver. I heard the astonished questions: eysh, Mukkadam
muhandis? (What, Colonel mechanic?).
They felt more English school, where only the commanders in command and
in the rough work did not participate. For the Arabs it was surprising that the
commander acts as an ordinary mechanic. They went to the locality of El
Malibu, located in the foothills, and made a brief halt.

After resting a little, moved on. Drawn into the valley. Went well and after
going 80 miles per day, near the settlement made Sarab sixth night halt.

Day 8 March. The next day at dawn to resume movement. They walked along
the ridge to valley. The road was good. However, near the village of Buda,
broken tank. I flew off the fuel pump motor drive. The work was difficult. My
technician with the Arab repairers started work. It took several hours. When
completed the mechanical portion of the work begun by the adjusting part.
This was a complex piece of work. Tried engine plant, nothing worked.
I have connected to work. I had to strain the memory, view the manual. The
difficulty was as follows. Tank engine "V-2 was a diesel, four-stroke (intake,
compression, ignition and power stroke, exhaust). Ignition system is absent. In
the compression stroke the air temperature reaches high values. In a strictly
defined position of the piston fuel under high pressure in a spray position
sprinkle into the cylinders and immediately ignited. After the ignition of fuel
continued to burn, and the piston while moving upwards. After the adventures
of the piston top dead center began working course, and the fuel continued to
burn out.
The process of the twelve cylinders of the engine must be synchronized.
Therefore, without accurate and proper adjustment of the fuel pump high
pressure (over 200 atmospheres), the engine will not work. He would not start,
no signs of life.
Examined the adjustment. I understand that the engine must scroll through 180
degrees when uncoupled. Repairers fulfilled. Unlinked one fitting the pump to
control the fuel supply. Like everything correctly. I give the command to start
the engine.
The crew gathered around the tank and watched our work. We switched on the
starter. They came pistons and, suddenly, earned the engine! There were
enthusiastic shouts. From the turn choke hit high fountain of fuel. You can
turn off.
Another took about an hour completing the work. We decided here to make a
night seventh halt.
9-day march. Early rise, curtailing the camp, building columns, setting goals
and moving forward. It is almost 600 km. We leave to the famous valley of
Hadramawt.
While in Moscow for training courses, we became acquainted with the history
of ancient Arabia. I listened with great interest the stories about this teacher
little-studied region. It seemed to me a fabulous, legendary. And so I go there
with a tank column, with the Arabs, the former Bedouins. It was interesting to
observe and compare what he saw with the previous representations.
It is unlikely that the land there is the desert, the harsh terrain, less adapted to
human life than the rocky valleys of South Arabia.
On our way to meet settlements, consisting of high earthen houses built of
adobe (a mixture of straw and clay).
Occasionally we came to the Yemenis dromedary. They looked with curiosity
at the tanks.
By the middle of the day we walked about a hundred miles and made camp
near the town Rahtan. Once settled, Ali Obaid suggested to go to the famous
city of Shibam. Even from a distance could be seen a beautiful majestic
palace. At the adjacent area had a lot of handicraft workshops. Their products
immediately lay and hung for sale. It was a lot of knives, various dishes,
beautiful gifts. Allocated silver inlaid with gold and precious stones curves
daggers Gainer.
We settled in the teahouses under the awning. Drank tea. People were quite a
lot. We have watched with curiosity. We went to the palace to be
photographed on his background. We invited a local resident, a young lad.
The owner of Sultan's Palace, fled after the revolution. Now nearly a half-
empty rooms of the palace. The palace is guarded.
Returned to the bivouac area. Check the readiness to march. For tomorrow
planned to overcome more than a hundred kilometers and complete the march
in the final paragraph, in the Al-Abr.

10 day march. Final. Last segment were mainly in the sand. Every 20
kilometers to take short halts. We all had a sentiment quickly complete the
march.
They waited approach stragglers tanks. They come in clouds of dust. After a
while we heard the enthusiastic voices and saw fleeing to us students. Nearby
was a school and just been changed. Seeing the first time in the life of tanks,
kids rushed to us. They were all in school uniforms, white shirts.
We sat on a large stone next to the tank. Chiquititas surrounded us. An
animated conversation. Ali Obaid told them that something. Among the boys
stood a lad of twelve. He was serious and felt that the guys feel it in his main.
He turned to me with questions. As the forces I do without an interpreter and
the kid replied in Arabic. All listened attentively. The student asked me
another question: kyam umrak? Literally, how do you live? The meaning of
the question: how old are you? I replied: itnen va arbain (two and forty).
Forty-two. There was general laughter. The boy, too, laughed merrily. Again
repeated his question. Again I replied, forty-two. Again, laughter. Finally
cleared up. It turns out, he asked how many times a day, I pray. A small
change in the pronunciation changed the meaning, it seemed, would be a
simple question.
Nearby stood a Negro. I asked him a question, What is thy name. He was very
embarrassed. Instead, he became responsible kid. He said that this Negro
Yuda, a Jew. Since I first saw the Jew-Negro.
Before reaching the ten kilometers to El Abra, we met the brigade commander,
was directed at the disposal of which a tank company. Here in the former
British barracks stationed an infantry battalion and the commander said that
the tankers will be placed with him.
We took place in one of the barracks. It was a one-story Modular
listovstroenie of white metal. Below the windows to the ground from the walls
protruding air-conditioners. Barracks cooled. It was wonderful.
From the brigade headquarters contacted by radio from the General Staff.
Reported for duty in the area. I asked him to convey on this chief adviser.
Before the evening blissfully on iron beds. In the evening went into the tea-
house. The people were many. Most of our party. They sat on the earthen
floor, munching on cat and drank it cold drinks.
Ali Obaid said that tomorrow morning we will fly over the aircraft.
The next morning, flew transport aircraft, it seems "AN" and we flew to Aden.
On arrival, immediately went to Konstantin. He reported on the
implementation of the job. Told the details.
Events in the ED-DALI.
1972. In mid-September we will be Julia returned from vacation. Stopover in
Greece in Athens. Within half an hour we wandered through the Athens
airport and watched the extraordinary for our products offered in numerous
benches for the currency. I tried to talk to a clerk at the Greek. However, the
conversation did not work. My Greek, acquired from childhood from the
Greek kids with whom I grew up in Sukhumi, significantly different from the
Greek modern Greece.
After a long flight over the Red Sea in Hadeyde we boarded, seaside airport of
North Yemen. They met with the principal military adviser, Nikolai
Ivanovich. He came to meet what is a very important guest. Nevertheless, we
talked and from him I learned that at the boundary of North Yemen
accumulate interventionists "murtazyaki" and forward to their early invasion
of South Yemen. Arrival in Aden, I reported this to the Chief Adviser. He had
already been informed.
In North Yemen, there were more than 100 thousand refugees from South
Yemen. They set up camp and trained militias, including mercenaries, to
invade.

Ali Obaid told me that one tank company had already sent the alarm in Ed -
Dali to the area of the alleged invasion of strengthening Infantry Brigade.
Several days. We were training. And on Sept. 26, 1972 armed detachments
PDRY emigrants with mercenaries from different countries invaded from the
north into the territory of Yemen, Southern Yemen in the areas of al-Dali,
Mukeyras and the island of Kamaran. There battles were fought.
27 th Chief of advisers gathered at the meeting and outlined the situation. Data
was not enough and the situation was unclear. He ordered me to fly to the
area, understand the situation, help the tanks. Together with the Acting Chief
of Staff of BTV Said a senior lieutenant, a lieutenant and an interpreter Alvi
we arrived at the airfield, where we had waited for a helicopter. Since we flew
Arab officers and a journalist.
Passed over Lahedzhom, El Anadia, above the gorge, made a circle over the
al-Dali. Examined the location of the top divisions of the brigade. It was
chaotic and resembled a gypsy camp. The enemy had no air. Otherwise I
would air it has caused them great damage.
The helicopter descended to the platform. We met and we went to the
command post team. He was about 20 km. from the front edge of a few tents.
In one of them sat at a table with a fat sweaty face and dazed eyes brigade
commander. I asked him to describe the situation. He fixed his eyes on lying
on the table map. She suffered only a small token of the brigade column and
nothing more. The situation was the commander could not explain.

I realized that in war it is zero, and lost interest in him. We Said found out that
one tank company is at the forefront. Realizing that have nothing to do here,
we intend to go to the front edge of a tank company. At this time, the
commander of ground forces approached the Deputy Defense Minister
Colonel Ali Antar. Not very tall, strong and powerful he used in the armed
forces of unquestioned authority. He had the glory of a revolutionary and
fearless warrior. Previously, I had never come into contact with him.

I spoke to him through an interpreter. He briefly outlined the situation and said
that he was preparing a decisive action. I told him that I wanted to deal with
the tanks and I have to go to them. He explained to me that the presence of
advisers on the best can get publicity, but this is undesirable. I, however, he
stated that it is our duty to be with those whom we teach and assist them. The
rest of us do not care. He did not agree. It took about an hour when he ran
delighted Said. Ali Antar allow us to leave.

In "Land-Rover" we drove to the area of hostilities. We passed the valley and

came to a valley stretching between the two rows of mountain ranges. We
turned left and headed for the dusty rut height of 2401. There was ANC
brigades. From a distance could be seen around periodically exploded single
shells. At our entrance one of them exploded in the road ahead. The
windshield was covered with dust, the engine stalled. We have not suffered,
and bringing the car in order, went to the altitude. From there we watched
advisor for the brigade commander, Colonel Omelchenko and the battalion
commander with the officers.
Counselor our arrival was delighted. Saeed jumped out of the car and ran to
the Thirty-standing away. We climbed to the translator on height. It had been
dug trenches and all were placed in them. Since it was a good review.
Omelchenko brought me into the situation. The valley, running between two
mountain ranges, separated the warring parties.
The front edge of orifice size on Human Settlements Nadib, Habila-es-Souk,
Al-Hussein. He had no form and was pronounced focal character.
"Murtazyaki" Kaataba concentrated in and along the ridge to valley. From
Kaataba walked the road to Aden, to which there were only 120 kilometers -
130.
In the air, sometimes appeared couple of MIGs. One of the MIG was shot
down yesterday, "murtazyakami". The pilot ejected and survived.

With the enemy in 5-10 minutes in our direction, flying projectile and torn in
the height. I watched through binoculars, spotted a place where the shot.
Leaving at the height of an interpreter went to deal with tank crews. Here was
a tank platoon. One tank was left behind and height. Two others could not see.
Found them in a hollow behind the height. When asked who had driven them
there platoon leader referred to the disposal of a sergeant in charge of location
technology.
Crews, told them how to choose the position. The platoon leader instructed to
choose for tanks such places from which the well-observed area, to designate
targets, to put the crew tasks and prepare the sectors of observation and firing.
Appoint observers. Mark way out of tanks in the attack. Check readiness of
weapons and ammunition. Camouflage tanks.
Meanwhile the enemy continued to periodically send shells into our position.
As I understand it, the shells were cumulative. They almost did not give
splinters.
I went to the tank, which climbed Said and also climbed into it. Took the place
of guns and a gunner on previously detected landmarks began to look for the
enemy's cannon. Finally found a flash shot. A few seconds later came and
exploded the bomb. I have brought to this place with arrows, a sight distance
of 2 500 meters, gave way to Said, while he took the place of the commander
and began to observe end.
Said pulled the trigger and the gun slammed. I spotted the track and the
fracture of our shell. Undershoot and a small deviation. Increased sight for two
divisions (200 meters). The enemy again fired. Again, I spotted outbreaks.
Said repeated the shot. Flight. Reduced sight in one division (100 meters).
Enemy shell exploded 50 meters away from us. Said fired a third time. At this
time on the hill there was an enthusiastic roar. They watched through
binoculars projectile hit the target. Firing stopped.
Crews. Talk to them. Explained that when there is a fire must be in the shelter.
No need to waste chances and show their courage. And you also did not hide,
they objected. I replied that this was to ensure that you do not think that I'm
afraid.
Dismantled with the first platoon, we went to the left flank, where two of tank
platoon commander with the company. They were assigned to the infantry
battalion. There was more order. The company commander was positioned
tanks in the line of open space. With him and with the battalion commander,
we discussed issues of mutual action. The tank company commander was
promoted far ahead.

Since the enemy was heard several gun shots. The lieutenant jumped up and
ran to his tank. After some time, made him a few shots. We returned it, along
with the tank back and were busy preparing for battle. Crews with the officers,
I told them in detail how to choose a place for the tank and the position for the
platoon, how to organize surveillance, guidance and choose to use them. With
the officers, including with the infantry, we reviewed the management and
interaction. Nobody could tell how determined he posed the problem.

Organization of the battle at the top and bottom was the weakest. It practically
absent. A few hours dealing with these issues until everyone has not mastered
his task. With the enemy time to time shots were fired. I said that it makes no
sense to answer them. It reminded me about the organization of night outposts.

The mood of the personnel were fighting. Everyone wanted to distinguish

himself, to show himself a hero.
Convinced that the whole tank company was ready for combat operations, in
the evening we returned to the Al-Dali. Ali Antar was in units and preparing
effective action.

At seven o'clock in the dark. For us to come Alvi. He was one of only arrived
lieutenants graduated from Odessa tank school, and spoke good Russian. We
identified a place in the headquarters of the brigade, which was based Ali
Antar. He invited us to dinner. We settled on a carpet on the small bench for a
low round table. Ate pilaf, greens, fruit, drank coffee. Ali Antar rassprossil
about our trip. The conversation was quiet loud.

With us sat his aide-bodied young girl. At her waist hung a holster with a
pistol. Ali Antar went to the troops and instructed her to take care of us. It
revived us talked, asked many questions about the life of youth in the Soviet
Union. It was a militant woman in uniform, who is able to shoot well. She
invited us to play cards. Translator was Alvi. I felt their mutual affection. Then
we said goodbye and went to sleep.
At night sometimes could hear shooting. The next day, after breakfast Alvi
went to find out the situation. When he returned, told me that night a
detachment under the command of Ali Antar made the gorge right round to the
rear Kataba. At dawn brigade units and tank crews fired at the enemy, and
suddenly attacked him.
Hidden passing around the same time, detachment suddenly hit from behind.
The enemy began the chaos, he suffered heavy losses. The success was
complete. The troops reached the area, previously occupied by the enemy. We
are not now recommended to go to the area. There we drove to the middle of
the next day. With Alvi, we became friends and were everywhere together. He
has replaced the interpreter.

Let's go to the village of Habila-es-Souk. There was one of the strongholds of

the enemy. Yesterday tankers fired their cannons. Leaving at the foot of the
car, on foot. Lying about a lot of dead bodies, pieces of bodies. Everything
was in blood. From the intense heat they were dilated. Swarms of flies stuck to
them. It was a stench. On the open ground lay swollen in the burnt clothes
almost naked trupylyudey. The picture was so indescribable that Omelchenko
took some photos.
Returned to al-Dali. There in the valley have already rounded up the prisoners.
There were about fifteen hundred. They sat back with bound hands and waited
for his fate. At another time with them it would have been easy - shot. But
now appeared in the press, including foreign. Cruelty could produce a
backlash in neighboring countries. Therefore the summit to solve their plight.
We went to a Yemeni journalist. He showed us documents, meeting with the
dead. These were mostly mercenaries Arabs. With them is the money of Saudi
Arabia. He showed me two documents of father and son, the Saudis, killed in
battle.
The danger of invasion the invaders were eliminated. Next dealt with the
situation and return to civilian life. Purchased in large quantities from farmers
cheap cat. Marked the victory. In all cases, without alcohol.

This was an area where a large number of grown cat. This dark green
succulent leaves, slabonarkoticheskogo action. Cat in Yemenis do not use
alcohol, was very popular. Succulent leaves laid on the cheek, chew well,
plentifully annually juice swallows. Kat was not all afford it, so now the
soldiers and officers cheaply bought from the peasants.
I decided to return to Aden. After dinner and said goodbye, we are on "Land-
Rover" drove through the gorge in the direction of al-Dali, Carira, El Anade,
Lahedzh.
We will stop in Lahedzhe. In restaurants snack, drank cans of beer. Looked
around. It was a place where we could come to rest. A lot of greens, a good
restaurant. We Alvi decided to visit him later.
In Aden immediately went to the chief adviser. Gorelenkov Konstantin
questioned in detail about everything. He said that in the area Mukeyrasa
invaders also destroyed. President Roubaix Ali talks with Arab leaders.
Planned arrival of an international commission.
Following a trip to Ed Daly, I made certain conclusions. Identified ways to
address shortcomings. We must do more officers. Learn their organization
fighting. Preparation of tank commanders should be improved. Must create a
training base. When armored forces to open a school to train drivers and tank
commanders.

In the past conflict tankers have shown themselves to advantage. Even the
very fact of their participation raised the morale of the infantry and instilled
confidence in victory.
In mid-September 1972 set up a mediation committee of the League of Arab
States, which began work.
October 4 in Aden arrived Mediation Committee LAS. The committee
members visited the areas of military operations. October 13 they published in
Aden appeal to the Governments of the northern and southern Yemen's call to
withdraw part of both sides of 10 km. from the border.

EVENTS IN THE MUKEYRASA.

In Mukeyrase Infantry Brigade was stationed. In a few dozen kilometers from
the border in Northern Yemen, located camp invaders. In autumn 1972, they
are here, as in the area of al-Dali, defeated. However, it became known that at
the beginning of the 73rd at the border once again began to accumulate their
formation. At this time they were preparing to carry out a major invasion,
intending to acquire all of the area and then move to the sea.
The presidential council had decided to reinforce infantry brigade of a tank
company. We commander and Sheriff Mansour at two "Land-Rover" went to
the area Laudara. He was at the foot of a rocky ridge in the agricultural area.
Thus began the road, punched in the steep, rocky ridge. It led to Mukeyras,
located at an altitude of 2 400 meters.
With a group of tankers off the road and explore the surrounding area.
Sometimes drove big trucks loaded with Japanese, Italian and British origin.
They walked very slowly, one by one, hugging, if possible, to the sheer wall
and stepping back from the edge.
We have prepared a pole length of 4 meters. Moving along the road on foot
with a pole in his hands, I'm dubious field measured way. The first quarter of
the way it was tankoprohodimoy. More places narrowed. Some serpentines
and low overhanging rocks, for the tanks were not passable.
Tyazhelogruzhenye trucks are moving cautiously down. Their wheels on the
very edge of the road. Then divide. Above were seen lying at the foot of the
ridge spines crashed in different times of machines from falling into an abyss.
Oncoming cars waited until the road becomes free.
I remembered a similar way to the Caucasus mountains. In Abkhazia's Kodori
Gorge along the river in the mountains led to the pass road. At one site came
up against a steep rocky ridge. It was a hole in an explosive way to narrow
road length of 500-600 meters. This was the famous rock Baghdad.
If the car were the passengers, then they went out and walked. Wheels cars
were a very expensive shotgun. The most difficult parts in turns and in places
where low overhanging rock. In inclement weather on top of the road
sometimes falling stones. This road leads to the alpine village of Lata and
Chkhalta.
Father, in the late forties, working as a driver in the U.S. "Studebaker," went
there to collect wood for the needs of Sukhumi catering. Sometimes he took
with him and me. Loaded to failure body of the car, we are on the right side,
which lapped the rock, left a smaller timber. Bead "Studebaker" were high.
Sometimes scraping the rock. When they returned, as a rule, already in the
dark. The gap was not visible on the left. It just felt. Once in the headlights
flashed a big stone which fell on the road. Together we hardly moved him into
the abyss. After crossing the road brings relief and the way forward seemed to
have a light.
With us was a representative of an infantry brigade. I showed him the place
that had to be expanded. He would mark them.
In "Land-Rover" went to the brigade headquarters. Lunch. The commander
told me in detail what to do. His advisor had lived in Aden, periodically
visited to give advice.
On the outskirts of Lauder identified encampment for a tank company. It was
already dark when we left Aden. Before the beach road was mostly on the
slope of barren volcanic terrain. In these areas were active "murtazyaki. Mined
the roads, attacked the car. We have prepared the machine guns and grenades
and increased monitoring of the road. The moon shines brightly. Sometimes,
when the road permitted, we switched off the lights so as not to unmask
himself. After about a hundred kilometers, Zandzhibar slipped and went out to
the ocean. It was the ebb and nude beach flat as a table, is an ideal way. We
walked at a speed of 150-180 km. hour. In the distance there were sparks of
Aden.
The next day started to prepare a material part of a tank company. We had two
trawlers and two KRAZ serving tractors. Taught the crew to drive tanks on the
trawlers and move out with them. In readiness to begin to transport tanks to
the camp at Lauder.

Days went on as usual. A month passed. One day at five o'clock in the
morning in his sleep and the noise of air conditioner, my wife on the second
floor in the bedroom heard a knock a stone, hit the window. I looked out the
balcony and saw the bottom of Ali Obaid with several officers. Downstairs.
They told me that night at a meeting of the President's Council decided to
accelerate the transfer of the tanks in Mukeyraz. The commander of an
infantry brigade reported that work on expanding the road is completed. The
commander asked where I could go there. I replied that I will be ready in an
hour. It's only dawning, and we are on the two cars raced in Lauder.

In a tank company to select the best driver. The two tanks, we quietly passed a
third way. Then I went forward, and the tank, following my commands, which
I gave her hands, walked behind me. Over the tank were the officers and crews
of tanks. So we've gone half way. I was surprised how much work did the
soldiers Infantry Brigade. Within a month the whole team worked on the
expansion of the road.
We have already climbed quite high. And then began to come across difficult
sites. On the steep streamer caterpillar was already on the edge of the road at
the precipice, overhanging piece of rock ran into the tower and did not allow
in any way take the right. Besides streamer was with enthusiasm. I stopped the
tank. Marching should immediately put it under rollers stones for insurance. I
had a great experience driving in the mountains and I knew that if the steep
rise of thirty-four start to slide, it has no holding brake.
From mechanic agreed, as we shall overcome this plot. Once again, I
instructed him. I suggested that he change seats with you. He refused to dress
length. I was facing the tank and moving back, handed him his arms team. I
had watched both of the tower and for the caterpillars. The critical moment
came when almost half of the caterpillars have already moved beyond the road
and hung over the precipice. It was necessary to simultaneously turn. One
wrong move the driver and the tank could fall into the abyss. I'm for it, too,
bore responsibility. And when we successfully overcame this plot, in the back
there was a sigh of relief.

We have twice come across such difficult places. When we they finally broke,
opened ahead of ideal straight length of about 300 meters, running on the
recovery road. She ended with our hard-mile path. I stopped the tank, got a
head-on armor near the open driver's hatch, and we confidently marched
forward.
Above us and in front of us all the rocks were filled by personnel of the
brigade. They greeted us. When we approached, there was a deafening roar. In
the air flying different subjects, all cheered, heard the shooting. They began to
run out on the road and run towards us. Finally, when we reached the top, I
jumped off the tank, stepped aside and watched as the throw driver. Walked
up to him commander of the brigade, hugged, pulled a pistol from his holster
Makarov and under the jubilant cries handed him. To me approached the
soldiers and officers greeted, shook hands.
Rode my "Land-Rover" with the radio station. I dictated a radio operator
radioed: "Gorelenkovu." Mission accomplished - we are up there. "
After all the rejoicing went to the brigade headquarters to dinner. At the most
risky parts of the road where the turret anchored to the rocks, fired explosions.
As a result, greatly facilitate the driver. Night in the headquarters.
The next day they began to move the remaining tanks.
I already participate in this not taken.

<On reconnaissance in the mountains Mukeyrasa>

Let's go with Ali Obaid, a brigade commander and a group of officers to study
the terrain. We drove on mountain roads. The commander showed me the
most probable direction of enemy attack. Win-win position for a tank
company. She had to sit in the rocks on the flank along the valley through
which the enemy would attack. Together with the commander of a tank
company qualified the position of each platoon and a tank. I told him in detail
what work he has done.
By this time the tanks began to approach the outpost. Crews performed
maintenance, preparing weapons and ammunition. Great excitement reigned.
Personnel was proud that it complied with a difficult task. Came up to me,
communicated. I felt their location and complete confidence in me.
After lunch, we met with the commander and went to Aden. Tank Company
came to the brigade commander. He has to put her problems.
On arrival in Aden, I reported to the Chief of the task and told the details.
About a week later we are with him and a group of staff officers flew by
helicopter to Mukeyras. We met all the brigade commanders and the governor.
He solemnly gave Gorelenkovu beautifully inlaid Bedouin kindzhal Gainer. In
the egotsentre gaping bullet holes. The governor said chtoeto kindzhal
captured belonged to the slain man in the fighting Sheikh. It was a valuable
gift.
We Ali Obaid went to a squadron of tanks. Crews cheerfully greeted us. In a
short time, they are equipped with tanks for the trenches, well-camouflaged
under the background of their locality. Prepared weapons. I have read the
position of each tank. Climbed inside, looking in the fire equipment and
monitoring. Checked the readiness of guns, machine guns, ammunition
stowage. The company commander was built personnel and reported to the
commander.
I explained how we will train. The command to fight! On radio crews reported
on their readiness. Within an hour, they performed various commands.
Conditionally uncover and destroy the enemy. Crews worked quickly and
smoothly. After the tank-infantry training started way companies work out the
attack to complete destruction of the enemy. "Foot the tank" The crew made
an exit from their positions, the construction of the column, the appointment
and deployment in the combat line. After a brief rest is all done already on the
material part. I was convinced that his company is ready for combat operations
and reported this to the Chief Adviser.
Everyone was invited to dinner. A long table sat about 30. Before eating,
hands washed only advisers. Spoons and forks, too, only they use. But after
eating at the basins formed a queue willing to wash their hands. It makes us
laugh.
Climbed into the helicopter. Ascended, circled over the mountains and went to
Aden. By the evening were at home.
Several days passed and we received the complete defeat of the invading
invaders. I learned that the tank company earned the highest evaluations
brigade command. Later I was told the details of the battle. Opponent in cars
and on foot, large masses of advancing, as we expected, the valley between the
ridges in the direction Mukeyrasa.

When the bulk of the positions held by the tank and found itself in the
defensive units of the brigade, tank crews fired guns. Burned cars, scattered
people, caught up with them machine guns. Together with the tank crews
acted and artillery and infantry. The moment complete rout. Tankers
committed maneuver and with the infantry attacked the demoralized enemy.
The victory was complete! It was taken many prisoners.
Killed their leader, who led the invasion. After this defeat the invaders more
never tried in the area to carry out attacks.

A few days later phoned the chief military adviser and offered to fly to
Mukeyraz. I agreed. Konstantin assembled brigade commanders, officers of
Staff. He wanted to discuss with them on the spot boeyh course of action in
the area Mukeyrasa. We flew two helicopters. On arrival we Obeytom Ali
went to the places in the past battles. We are told how everything happened.
Tankers proudly talked about their actions. They were excited and tuned
aggressively. They were considered heroes.
I looked up positions a company and its location. Sure it is ready for action.
They drank coffee and talked, a lot of joking. At the end of the day we all said
goodnight and flew away. I no longer was destined to be in Mukeyrase.
TRIP TO KHARRAZI 1972
After reading Mukeyrasom I suggested Ali Obaid go to Kharaz see How to
equip the newly formed Tank company. Early in the morning I was with
specialists, Ali Obaid and Sheriff Mansour at two "Land-Rover, drove toward
the mountains Kharaz, near which was deployed infantry brigade and a tank
company attached to it. The road ran along the seashore. Few scattered small
fishing villages. On the bank lay the skeletons of large turtles. The heat was a
strong fishy odor.
To the destination was somewhere in 130-140 miles. Halfway we stopped in
the road buffet. It was a little shed, knocked together from pieces of iron,
cardboard, burlap and square iron cans. Rain almost never happen, so instead
of the roof stretched a tarpaulin. Inside, on a low stool sat a few drivers of
passing cars. In a corner of gas from the cylinder working refrigerator. He was
filled with cold bottles of Coca-Cola and Pepsi-Cola. In the intense heat they
were a delicacy. In the middle of the gas plitochke preparing coffee. In a nail
hung a small Japanese radio, from which sounded lyrical Arabic music.
We welcomed those present, seated on a stool and ordered a coffee. Barman in
a skirt (Arab men wear skirts) helped the girl. Sipping coffee, we continued
our journey.
We were met by a tank company commander and other officers. We have read
the conditions in which stationed a tank company. Experts took up inspection
equipment, and we Mansour met with personnel. These were the guys that we
have recently prepared for the accelerated program. They were not to know.
Within months of exercise and good nutrition, they got stronger and matured.
We were greeted with enthusiastic cheers. Mukkadam Shernishov, mukkadam
Shernishev (LTC Chernyshev), treated them to me. It turns out I was not
forgotten. I warned them that tomorrow I will check how they are prepared.
The tanks were kept well. Conditions for living in tents were normal.
Evening in a big tent assembled officers of the brigade, tankers, and we. The
gas lamps shone brightly. Around the central pole sat on the chain dirty little
monkey. She teased and she snapped furiously. I asked where is she? It turns
out that it was caught today and named Faisal, the Saudi monarch's name. I
decided to take it away in the Salah al-Din. They brought a large tray with
pilaf and boiled goat meat. Plastic cups filled with broth. Detached various
vegetables and fruits. We Mansur and my kids for a couple of minutes out of
the tent and took on his chest. " During dinner slowly stirred controversy on
political topics. They are not interested in us and we went to his tent to rest.

The next morning the company raised the alarm. Crews worked vigorously
and soon took the company's position, block off traffic on the main road from
the strait. Performed several input.
Worked the theme of the onset of a tank company in defending enemy. Early
in the method of "foot on the Tank." Then spent an attack on the tanks. In
general, the tankers have shown a good education. After training the personnel
built. We conducted a review Mansour, pointed to the shortcomings and praise
for good actions. I then asked what would be the questions? When Mansur
moved me the first question, I was dumbfounded.

Tankers stated that they were in the morning did not eat or drink. How? Why?
I asked the company commander. It appears in connection with matured some
religious holiday can not eat and drink from sunrise and before sunset.
Mansour strictly ordered him to immediately feed the people. In such religious
holidays, some commanders cunning.
The fact is that for everyday feeding of personnel, the commander is given a
certain amount per month. He buys food and pays the cook.

Some commanders in the religious holidays are trying to save money and do
not do so unselfishly. However, in identifying such facts should be punished
severely. Ali Obaid said that he would deal with the commander. Early
indication was the Minister of Defense, that the observance of religious rules
in the army is voluntary. But during the fighting, training, implementation of
physical works is not allowed. I must say that young people in general,
religion was viewed with some irony.
After a couple of hours fed and contented personnel surrounded us with
Mansur. They asked questions about life in the Soviet Union. We have a good
conversation.
The next day early in the morning, taking Faisal, went to Aden.

MARCH OF Tamudo at Mukalla.

1973. At the meeting the President's Council decided to strengthen the military
garrison on the border with Saudi Arabia in the city Tamudo. This was due to
the discovery of oil deposits and some tension in the region. To enhance
Infantry Brigade decided to move there a tank battalion. This told me Ali
Obaid. Soon I was summoned Gorelenkov KI and said that tomorrow we take
off in Tamudo. We are he, I, Petr Chernov (nachfin), Novikov (assistant
principal). On the Arab side went commander Ali Obaid and several Yemeni
officers.
As a result of the trip we had to decide what path or way to implement the
transfer of a tank battalion in Tamudo. From Aden to Tamudo more than a
thousand miles between them stretch alpine ridges. We had to identify an
opportunity to make a march from Mukalla on mountain roads to Tamudo.

A few days later we were flying by helicopter to Tamudo. Before Mukalla

walked along the shore, then turned left through the mountains. On arrival we
were met by the command of the brigade. We met, studied the route on the
map, a tour of a small ancient town, looked at people. Many of poverty went
barefoot. In the evening gathered at the governor. We sat on a low stool on the
carpet around the round table. Attended and brigade commander with the
officers. The governor was dressed in exotic clothing. Drank coffee, ate pilaf,
fruit. Of course no alcohol.
Chatted on revolutionary themes. General anti-imperialist, especially anti-
American sentiment. Waiting for the world revolution. In the eyes of the
Governor, we, too, were revolutionaries, and were ready to fight together
against the Americans and donated to help Yemenis. Against this background,
did not feel the revolutionary mood Konstantin as a great aid to Yemen said
that the USSR defer payment of debts of Yemen for three years. When the
governor moved his words, he kept wondering what kind of debt can you talk
about when is a joint revolutionary struggle.
After the reception in the evening we had a room assigned to us by grammulke
whiskey all - still missed. Between me and Konstantin took the conversation:
- Eugene how you look, if you stay in Yemen for another year?
- I do not know, Konstantin, to me several times already contacted the
commander of such a request. And how are you? If you are not, then I would
not mind.
- I have consented, and in the "top ten" (ten main control GS) draw up
documents for me and Chernov.
- Konstantin Ivanovich, then I too agree. But I have one problem.
Last year I took the Volga. It is my Sukhumi worth. If you stay for another
year, then it should sell. And you do I can not make a second?
- Why can not, will issue second.
- Then I'll stay.
- Well, fine. How to return to Aden, send documents to the "top ten".

Term trip to Yemen was established for two years. And while there was no
case of its extension. The three is the first. Staying in the third year - it was a
dream of every adviser and expert. Already very well paid there.
I, for example, on the Volga collected for six months. But a warrant for the
GAZ-24 "Get advisers with difficulty and not to all. Distributed personally
chief.

Then, when I told Ali Obaid about our conversation with the Chief, he in turn
said that he had asked Defense Minister refer to Gorelenkovu in order to
extend the trip advisor Chernyshev. Nasser Mohammed promised to do so.

In the morning, after breakfast, we went to the three "Land-Rover" from

Tamudo in the desert on their way. On one machine we rode, the other two,
Ali Obaid and security escorts.
We had to walk about 250 kilometers to the town of Tarim are about 100
kilometers of wilderness and 150 - in the mountains. Next was to overcome
the same distance, but on the ridges and valleys to the port city of Mukalla.

We walked along the sand, in the footsteps of earlier held machines. Around
the desert. There was the heat. After fifty kilometers decided to eat.
Situated directly on the sand. Pyotr Chernov poured whiskey. Obaid Ali, as a
Muslim, abstained. We have eaten well and washed it down with tea. The
mood was good. No snack, security has monitored over the horizon.
The sun rose to its zenith, the heat intensified, but we continued to move.
Sometimes they stopped, surveyed the area, refined route.
Passing through the desert hundreds of kilometers, began a gradual ascent. We
got to the top of the ridge (1 300 m), and went on a steep slope streamers.
Until this point, I appreciated the way how walkable tanks. But the descent
into the valley of Hadramawt has caused some doubts. Descending into the
valley were at the well. He constantly on some Arabs. They have to protect
him and helped get the cold water. Drink it was a pleasure, especially in this
heat.

We drank, chilled water, hands and luxuriate. The Arabs watched with interest
to us. It's not often you can see the Europeans. Perhaps, they are still not there.
We first. They told us that last night at their village, located near the hillside,
was attacked by nomads. Was shooting. There are victims on both sides. But
the attack was repelled. Such cases have already been and the villagers at night
exhibit protection. This saved them.

Rested, we continued our journey. Before Tarim remained about forty

kilometers. They crossed the valley and again went on the rise. The road was
steep and narrow. Before reaching the top we stopped and took a few pictures
on the background of the valley of Hadramawt.
In front of me at the bottom of the valley of Hadramawt. It ran once a Silk
Road. There were numerous caravans of camels loaded the east. Here fork
paths leading to the sea, to sea ports - to Sayhutu and Mukalla.
Again and again descend the narrow road with sharp turns. I already knew that
the tanks we are not to drive. Too large amount of work.

CITY Hadramaut.
As soon as bednela country and it became harder to live, every village, every
house Acquires impregnable tower: the sedentary inhabitants of Bedouin raids,
and threatening neighbors, water and earth, there was not enough. In the city
of rear facades of buildings, adjacent to each other, formed a solid wall. In the
city could enter only through a single login.

Each built a skyscraper - the fortress, consisting of seven to nine floors. First
floor with thick walls served as warehouses, barns and sheds. In the wall of a
little door and the loopholes in its sides. On the fourth floor begin living rooms
and can be seen rows of windows. Big family inhabits all the upper floors.

Between the skyscrapers of narrow streets, which do not even protisnetsya

cart. In the middle of the street is flowing stream of sewage. They flow down
the troughs, sticking out of the windows, are accumulated in special pits.
Special scavengers shovel bucket with long handles dirt, fill their leather bags,
loaded on ishachkov and take out of town.
With a strong heat without windy stench is unbearable. And only on the upper
floors more or less tolerable existence.

In some cities there are beautiful palaces of the sultans.

On the morning of the bazaar are arriving caravans coming from desert
Bedouins.
Villagers are different from urban high straw hat with wide brim. Bedouins are
bandages on their heads, their women do not cover individuals.

Drove to the Tarim. We have already waited. We met well. Placed in the
White storey domesbezhavshego in Kuveyt Sheikh. Near the house was a
"Land-Rover, all riddled with bullets. We are told that last month at the head
of the province was attacked. He and his accompanying were killed. Machine
one now enjoys.

They showed us reserved rooms, dining room, restrooms

other halls. We built his real masters. No trees, no nails are not
applied. Of clay, mixed with straw, to make large bricks,
well dried in the sun. Liners were also made from clay. She was so polished
that it begins to resemble marble.

While we rested in the bliss of beds, the kitchen cooks labored. We have
prepared an excellent dinner. We sat with Arab friends. Decided to have a rest
day here.
It is known that South Arabia had long been inhabited by Arab tribes, the
Semitic group of tribes, is quite different from the northern Arabs, even their
language is different from the classical Arabic - he was close to the Ethiopian.

In the south of the Arabian Peninsula, the city had been formed in the second
millennium BC. By the third century BC. e. they were merged into one
Sobeyskoe state. This is the earliest kingdom. In its territory were busy
caravan route. They fought to the north - to Petra and Syria, to the west -
through the Sinai to Egypt in the north-east - in Mesopotamia and India. From
the Persian Gulf pearls were brought from India - fabric, from China - silk,
from Ethiopia - ivory, gold, ostrich feathers, and monkeys. At Sabean ground
spices growing, sought myrrh, incense.
Communalism small shopping Arab States Mann, Kataban, Hadramaut, and
others. They were based on the oases in the desert mountains of the peninsula
and were not strong militarily. This is a city of merchants, artisans and
peasants. They were surrounded by groves of date palms stretched more arid
mountains - the realm of the Bedouin, independent and beggars.

Power belonged to the priests. In the fifth century BC, it passed into the hands
of secular kings. Sobeyskoe kingdom lasted until the sixth century AD.
The main problem of the peninsula - water. Arabians built canals, dams and
reservoirs. In Marib was built the largest dam was destroyed in the sixth
century. Fertile fields came in zapustenie.Pismennost they appeared long
before our era.

Sabeytsy held a monopoly on navigation in the waters of the Persian Gulf.

From ancient sources: "Sailing along the coast of Arabia is dangerous. There
are no harbors, anchorages and marinas not good places, rocks and reefs, there
are terrible.
Close link with South Arabia supports close to her on the culture and language
of the Ethiopian kingdom.
With the fall of the Roman Empire fell into decay of the city and the caravan
routes. No longer required in silks and spices. In the middle of the desert in the
valley of the former kingdom of Hadramaut is a few cities. They continued to
exist through the caravan trade, the cultivation of dates and breeding camels.
They ruled independent sheikhs and sultans. Towns deserted Hadramawt were
very poor, the population sparse. In a country where every drop of water
weight in gold, population growth is determined by the maximum number of
people whom she can drink. Young Arabs went to India, Singapore and other
cities and only returned to the old age home.

The next day after a good breakfast, we decided to get acquainted with local
dostoprimechatelstvami. The house was not in town, but away from it. In
"Land-Rover" with the commander and the officers went to the city.
Through a single gate, we drove inside the city. They arrived at the square.
Around her numerous traders ovoschamii fruit. We got out of the car and
walked a little. The impression is that back in prehistoric times. From the
windows of skyscrapers, built of clay and straw, stuck wooden troughs, which
trickled down dirt. They fell down to the foot of the houses in the pits. From
the pits scraped out of their scoops scavengers and shifts in leather bags, laid
on the sides of the adjacent ishachkov. Then, on the narrow streets ishachki
trotted out of town.

Approached us a few Arabs, one of which represented the local authority.

They began to invite us to drink coffee. But our patience has been on the
wane. Inside the city a breeze is not felt. It was hot and unbearable stench. We
could not stay in it longer and left him wondering: how could such a city to
live people!
After visiting the Tarim we had lunch and rest, good conditions for recreation,
we have created good.
Snapshot of the magazine.
The morning goodbye with hospitable hosts and set off. The day we passed
about 250 miles mostly on mountain roads. Numerous serpantiny places were
steep hills and turns.
On the left vertical wall, the right gap. Frequent serpentines with sharp turns.
To tanks were needed, some sections of road to expand as it did in Mukeyrase.
The whole question: how many of these sites. I made a mark on the map.

We have already become clear that this route does not drive tanks. But I had to
get to Mukalla, where we waited for the helicopter. On the way human
settlements were practically no. By the end of the day we went to the beach
near the settlement of Al-Riyan and soon moved into the ancient port city of
Mukalla. Konstantin invited to stay overnight in a city hotel. It was interesting
- how is it? Commander of the officers went to the military unit. We agreed
that in the morning they zaedut for us.
The hotel had a lot of people, dominated by Japanese and Chinese, but we
quickly provided seats. We have things in a dilapidated room, sprawled on
iron beds. No, what was not working air conditioners. Novikov went to the
administrator. He offered another room with air conditioning. We moved
again and collapsed on the iron beds. Resting, I drew attention to the
numerous black spots under the window sill. Looking closely, discovered
herds of bedbugs. We jumped up and began to inspect the mattress. Alas, the
bugs were everywhere! We, like scalded, packed their bags and rushed out of
the room.
Novikov had a long argument with the administrator who did not wish to
return the money to us. Finally, the administrator gave up. By phone Novikov
get through to a military unit. Commander came and took us to a military
hotel, located on the outskirts of the city, near the barracks. Hotel rooms were
a dozen empty. It long ago no one stopped. But soon came the military,
including the cook, turn on the light, air conditioners, have started to prepare
dinner. We cheered. Peter took the last bottle of whiskey. Good supper. All
would be nothing, but plagued by mosquitoes. They are many, but it's not
bedbugs! On the backside of our beds had been thrown over mosquito nets. So
that during sleep we are not plagued by mosquitoes.

Near the hotel has a helipad, which was our helicopter. The crew stayed in the
barracks. The next day, after breakfast, did not delay its departure, and said
goodbye, flew to Aden.
We have fulfilled our task. The road had studied and rejected. Remains the
second option - transfer tanks, sea, and then through the desert in Tamudo.
Chief said he would order a landing ship, and I need to prepare for the
exploration of the coast and find a place of unloading tanks from the ship in
proximity to the border with Oman.

EXPLORATION BY HELICOPTER.
After our return from Tamudo took about two weeks. Gorelenkov called me to
headquarters and set the task. It was that close to the border with Oman on the
coast to find suitable landing place tanks. At my disposal is highlighted by
helicopter. I must form a team and fly.
With Commander discussed the details and designated time of departure.
The next day arrived at the airport. We are waiting prepared to take off a
helicopter. The crew of four people - Soviet specialists. The captain's name
was Edward. All of them before arriving in Aden worked in Adler. Almost my
countrymen. I'm from Sukhumi. Quickly met. I explained to the commander
of our task. We flew along the coast to El - Gade. There, on "Land-Rover"
with local commanders who they along the coast, and places suitable for
landing tanks. Then fly to Tamudo and study the route of transfer tanks. In
Tamudo rest and fly to Aden.

Warmed up the engine took off and walked along the shore. There were
relatively high, and watched with interest on top of the shore. About 400
kilometers, landed in Mukalla. Refueled and have a smoke and fly farther.
Above the town, I took a few pictures.
Passed along the coast is 400 kilometers. Landed on the outskirts of El-Gade,
not far from the sea. Around the terrain is flat.
We were met by officers, was invited to the tent. Over coffee, we discussed
the possible landing place of the tanks. They offered two options. The first -
landing in El Gade. The shore here, too, from the stone slabs. But it allows
landing craft close enough. Elsewhere, small bank goes to great length and
discharged the tanks would have to go to sea water far enough. And it's risky.

The second option - in the vicinity of Cape Fartak. It is about the same bank,
as in El-Gade. I'll have to travel 50-60 miles.
Initially, we explored the coast by boat from El-Gade. Identified place
approach the ship. It turned out that the ship will be 30 meters from the shore.
On the bank identified the landing site. The two cars drove along the coast to
Cape Fartak. Caught a few fishing villages. Around them stood in the boat and
the sand dried dissected shark carcasses. It also examined the shore. It was
about the same as that of El-Gade.
We decided to have it spare. If for some - any reason can not be unloaded at
the Al-Gade, will be unloaded here. We were invited to see strong point, are
equipped to protect against attacks from Oman. We took pictures on his
background.
Returned to El-Gade. Had lunch and began to prepare for the exploration of
the route to Tamudo. This is somewhere 280 kilometers.
Approached us a group of rebels from Oman. Seid said that they were asked to
be photographed with us. They were fighting last night in Oman, and returned
to his rebel camp located here. Photographed with the rebels. They are visible
in our image
We were at a height of about 1 000 m above the wadi (dried-up river bed).
Sometimes it appeared extensive date palm groves with human settlements.
Vice-Governor asked that the helicopter sank lower. He was holding a piece of
paper, which wraps a small stone. I just wanted to respond to the request, but
asked why he needs it? It turned out that in front of town and the area in which
many of the rebels.
They have never seen a helicopter. Can take us by the British and bombard.
The note contained an appeal to him, stating that we are Soviet friends and we
do not have to shoot. When I heard this, he immediately looked into the
cockpit and told this Eduardo. The helicopter immediately soared. Vice-
Governor of the stone, wrapped in a note, still threw down.

They flew mostly over the road leading to Tamudo. Obstacles to her was not
observed and we have accepted it as tankoprohodimuyu.
In Tamudo refueled, drank tea, a little rest and headed to Mukalla. We flew
along that route, on which only recently went to the Land-Rover. To the right
of us a boundless desert. Let's go over the lifeless rocky ridges of the
mountains. They crossed the valley of Hadramawt. Flew over the cities, the
skyscrapers Tarim, Sain, Shibam. In Mukalla long delayed. They took on
board several officers.
Even some 400 kilometers flew along the seashore. Safely to Aden. The
results reported to the Intelligence Chief. Konstantin said that in a few days to
arrive BDK and must be addressed as we load it into his tanks. The problem is
big. No one ever here do not.

The next day, the commander learned of Aden coast in the area and concluded
that the option of loading from the beach disappears. Let's go to the port. They
saw the pier for duty. Decided that the thirty tons of it survive. But you have to
do a test drive a tank. Let's go to the Chief of Staff. Decided to focus his
questions, protect and pass on the dock. He reported the main. On the trailer at
night, transported to the port area tanks. They began to wait for the landing
craft.
Voyage.
In mid-July, Chief reported on the arrival BDK (the large landing ship). We
took the commander of the necessary things and went to the port. Met with
representatives of the ship and agreed how to put the ship at berth for loading.
It should come right up to the pier nose and lower on her nose its platform. It
was already evening. For loading, we were ready. On the eve of experienced
marina strength - rode through it on the tank.
We watched as slowly BDK on board which could see the number 344, was
approaching the pier. The sea was calm and it is easier loading. We went to
the pier, dropped anchor. Revealed nasal folds. Slow down to the pier
platform. We had to act vigorously, until the excitement has risen.

Gathered all the driver-mechanic. We went into the hold. In the course of
instructing how to stop off and where to put the tank. On the pier drove the
first tank. I took the place of the driver. His hatch was opened. Started the
engine in first gear drove onto the platform and slowly drove into the belly of
the ship. Immediately became a hollow in a large vat. Ensign Vladimir
goldfinches pointed my way. On reaching the end. Out of the tank and its crew
began to consolidate. Inside the ship was fighting technique: a tank company
"T-55", a company of light amphibious tanks PT-76 "and the commando
company on APC. It was a commando battalion. We, therefore, could
download it no more than ten tanks.
I directed the arrival all the other tanks. Tankers know what it is. This should
be in front of the tank and give signs of driver-mechanic, who is closely
monitoring your hands and quickly responds to their movement. This is
usually done during the loading of the tank on the platform or passage in the
narrow aisles.

After loading, we moved to the ship, met with the command. The ship lifted
anchor, away from the dock, turned to the open sea and headed for Mukalla. It
was already dark. Lights Aden gradually disappeared astern. We took the
cabin. Place all together: I, Ali Obaid, Volodya goldfinches and translator.
Invited to the wardroom for dinner. There are better acquainted. The ship was
already on course and gaining momentum.

After dinner, watched a film. Personnel located directly on the deck. We

brought chairs. Screen is supported on the bottom of the forward mast. When
the weather permitted, the ship's crew watched movies every night. Exchange
already viewed movies they did in the embassies and consulates of ports,
which had to go.

After the film was sold to the personnel of the barracks, the officers - the
cabins. We was on the upper deck. The wide window was brought forward on
the course. One can see the bow of the ship and the sea front. In the open
window sash in it did the sea air, a little refreshing us. I went to board the ship,
and stood a long time, holding the handrails. The shore was not visible. The
dark sky and bright stars. Sea water is black. Circle of light around the ship.

The morning after breakfast in the mess we are together with the deputy
commander of the ship became acquainted with the ship. In the hold was
military equipment. With personnel airborne commanders carried out political
information. Then he carried out practical exercises and a variety of work. In
the hold, and it was hot and humid.
Marines dressed in shorts and striped shirts. Commanders saw to it that
personnel do not sit back and puzzling his works.
Many were Japanese car radio at that time very prestigious, which they bought
in the ports during stops.

During dinner, the officers reluctantly pulled the spoon to a bowl standing in
the middle of the table, filled with what - that temnokarichnevym jam.
However, they grinned wryly. Then I was told that a special jam. It suppresses
sexual desire. It has to swim during the year separated from their wives. On
the command of the ship were photographed for memory.
Commander of the brigade ships maintained radio contact with other ships
crews. One small warship in the distance walked behind us.
By the middle of the day came to the port of Mukalla and began to raid. Go to
the ship approached by several boats loaded with bananas, watermelons,
melons and other fruits and vegetables. We decided to go to the city. Lowered
the boat and the rope ladder descended into it. Large smooth waves that lifted,
the boat was lowered dramatically and therefore fit into it demanded strength
and agility.
Moored to the pier and went to see the city. Local people on us
ignored. Mukalla quite densely populated. As a trading port, he has not lost its
value. However, for receiving large ships dock was too small and they, like us,
grew in the distance on the roads.
In the center of the city was a small palace where the sultan lived before the
revolution. We look inspecting its premises, the throne, clothing, silverware,
weapons Sultan and his other belongings. We went to the beach, where all
together took pictures.
After touring the city center have returned to port. Prichalennyh vessels was
not. Dock did not allow emotion. Several small trading ships, as well as our
"BDK", stood in the roads. From them to the bank and rode back loaded with
boats.
After a few years in Mukalla with the Soviet Union will be built fish-canning
factory capacity of 8,5 million cans a year.
Among the city's population was a lot of Ethiopians. Before they were slaves.
Now, most taxi drivers - Ethiopia.

We are on the pier seaport. We were photographed with a boat

KUKHARENKO.
Then he sent me this photo.

Returned to the ship. Barkas all the time cruising on a ship to shore and back.
Tyloviki buy food.
I stood on the bow of the ship, looked at the sea and city. Until recently flew
here by helicopter, came to the Land-Rover, spent the night. Now here the sea,
watched from a warship.

Over lunch in the mess a lot of talking. They told about themselves, about
their service. The crew of the ship, along with a battalion landing a few
months already runs along the coast of the Indian Ocean between Vladivostok
and our naval base on the southern coast of Africa in Somalia. Their families
in Vladivostok will be a year of waiting. Not all wives are waiting. We got
acquainted with the life of the naval officers, and learned that she was very
heavy, and requires a lot of patience, a lot of restraint, mutual support and
friendship.

When we in the mess-room conversation with the admiral, became a telegraph

operator, reported that he received the signal "SOS". In the Gulf of Aden at a
distance of about two hundred miles from our sinks merchant ship. The
admiral said that the distance between us far and we are at the scene did not
have time. He also said that in the case of death of the court was surrounded
by large schools of sharks and leave no one alive. The sea around turns red.
On the fate of the ship, we know not.
In ports such as Aden and Mukalla command ship in an organized way home
at the shore. There, the sailors at all the money to buy Japanese equipment,
clocks (in the course were SEIK and Orient), clothing. The route was home for
sale, gifts and some for themselves. Arab traders happily greeted them and
offered them vying with each other inexpensive goods. They knew perfectly
well that the offer and waited with impatience the arrival of our ships. Teams
of ships of other countries in the shops did not go. These countries all have
enough. They were interested mainly in restaurants, where you could spend
your time.
Where - that at midnight I woke up and felt that there was no roar of running
engines and the ship is not moving. He stands on the raid. At dawn opened
foggy shore. The commander said that we are in the center of the harbor in
front of El-Gade. Now specify the location of the ship. On one side we could
see fishing village. Fishermen on the long boats rowed into the sea by passing,
with interest looking at us.

After breakfast the ship approached the shore for so much, that it is easily
visible. We Ali Obeytom found abandoned on the shore of benchmarks - two
large heaps of stones. Our chosen site was located between El-Gade and
Hayrutom. They showed the navigator discharge point. He in turn went to the
barge to explore the shore.

The whole team and the paratroopers were on the deck. We have seen how the
shore to the fishing village sailed fishing boats. They took an early catch. On
some boats lying caught sharks. Some hung their carcasses overboard. They
were huge and we could not understand how they were caught. They also
found the so-called shark-hammer. End of their heads had the shape of the
letter "T".
By the board approached by several boats. Fishermen offered fish. Ali Obaid
bought half a sack of dried shark meat. He said that it is very useful. She
walked up the boat. Fisherman shouted something Ali Obaid. It turns out that
he offers to go down to his boat and pick up a huge turtle. The men took her
on board. All looked it inspected. They brought in a large bowl, poured into
the sea water and placed it there. She had just moved his legs. There was fun.
We are Ali Obaid together barely held her hands, and we photographed
KUKHARENKO Then he would send me a picture
We are prepared for unloading. Yemeni personnel, except the driver-mechanic
and tank commander, with all the equipment was sent to the shore.
Direct preparation for the movement of tanks with water immersion was
carried out by crews led by Volodya Scheglyateva. They are tightly caulked
gaps between the turret and. Covered with tarpaulins and tightened
transmission. Caulked cracks hatches mechanics, drivers and other openings
through which could enter the tank water. Towers launched at 180 degrees, so
that the gun looked back. All this work done in advance during the voyage.

Driver-mechanic and tank commander, who would be located in their hatches

and internal intercom system giving them commands, received a detailed
briefing.
After all the preparations for the ship's crew began slowly leads him to the
place of unloading.
Almost the entire southern coast of the Arabian Peninsula consists of stone
slabs. We found a site where meters thirty or forty, he breaks off and forms
deep. Here it allows the landing craft to approach as close as possible. At the
same time, the depth, which should move the tank, was little more than a
meter. The bottom flat, with no obstacles. The most significant point is the
Congress of the ship into the water. Tank comes down from the ship at a steep
slope and the water reaches the top of the tower. She, despite the preparatory
work, poured into the tank from all the cracks. Do not let the engine stops.
Create your own then it will fail.

The ship slowly approached the shore. We stood on the bow and watched.
Finally he became. They flew down the anchor. Slowly opened the nasal folds.
Sat down on a stone slab platform. The ship is ready for unloading. The sea
was calm and favorable for us.

I sat down in the hold, took the place of the driver of the first tank. He was
sitting next to the arrow-radio operator. Started the engine, set speed. Slowly
go. At the platform before going looking for the guidance of a triplex on the
shore. At the levers pulled, the tank sharply bent down and began to descend.
On top of me abundantly poured water.

I increased the engine speed and went forward. Under the tank felt solid stone
slab. Triplex flooded and through them, nothing was visible. However, when
the tank has a horizontal position, I could see through them to shore. At high
revs left on the sandy shore, and rode away from him. Stop the engine and
climbed out of the tank. My clothes all wet. Arabs welcomed me
enthusiastically. Second went airborne tank T-55 ". By comparison with the T-
34 "was adapted to overcome water obstacles. We put him on the bank for
insurance.
Several tanks unloaded successfully. But the fourth or fifth tank got stuck on
the way down from the ship. Driver-mechanic made a jamming of the engine.
It was after this had to remove heavy armored cables, and retain them for the
tow hooks stuck tank. It was hard to do it. This was brought all the crew.
Reverse driven into the water "T-55" and wore it on the tow ropes. With the
tank managed to tow the stranded tank. I had to again collect driver-mechanic
and instruct.

We stood with Ali Obaid on the shore and watched the unloading. I am in wet
clothes. But here is the last tank left the ship and got ashore.
Tanks concentrated in one place and have started their service. Seal, sea water
was removed, dried. After the service a squadron of tanks was sent to El-Gade
to the area of the infantry battalion. There tankers should expect the arrival of
the next two tank companies, which must carry the BDK.

By the middle of the day we returned to the ship. The mood was different.
The first part of the task is done - successfully transferred a squadron of tanks.
Mustered experience. The next two flights will be in a rut.
The ship departed from the coast and stayed until the evening of the raid. We
expect the approach of a ship, with whom he must go to Aden. Time spent on
the deck. The sailors were told that for the one-year voyage in Vladivostok.
completed command. A year later, she disbanded and for the next voyage is
completed with the new. They swim at least another six months.

After dinner, everyone gathered again about turtles. Some offered to make her
ear. They say it's very tasty. But the ship's doctor, who was immediately
announced that the turtles feed on mallyuskami, which in these waters, and
therefore poisonous to eat turtle meat is not. Had to agree with his arguments.
During our conversation I was approached by a young lieutenant paratrooper
and we took him to an amazing conversation.
- Tell your surname Chernyshev?
- Yes, Chernyshev, and How do you know?
- And you Stepanokerte served?
- Served.
- A major Navolokina know?
- Of course! This was our zampoteh shelf!
- So here I am his son. My son and Chumakov (regiment commander) is often
near your home played in the war. You were the commander of a tank
company?
I remembered these guys, though, and took about ten years.

Everything listened with interest to our conversation. And I was just amazed.
Where Stepanokert and where the Indian Ocean, Gulf of Aden! That is how to
meet on a military ship! We have long remembered life in Nagorno-Karabakh,
and acquaintances. Lieutenant Navalokin just finished military school and sent
him to one year of swimming at the BSC.

By the evening approached the expected ship. It turns out that he had to drag
him to Aden in tow. He PA was the engine. Sailors consolidated thick rope at
the stern, one end of which the barge was taken to the towed vehicle. He was
considerably less than our BDK.

We went in the opposite direction. We were accompanied by dolphins. They

occasionally jumped out of the water and were not behind, level with the ship.
After dinner, located on deck to watch a film. However, the wind was strong
and increased agitation. Cinema did not take place. The waves occasionally
splash over the bow. They were big, but smooth. Overboard is a huge basin
was formed, there is a water mountain.

At night, the cable broke. They discovered it at once. We had to deploy a ship
and go back down the course. An attempt at such excitement again to fix the
cable failed. Towed the ship had to leave and he slowly went his own way to
Mukalla.
Another two days we traveled to Aden. It was very interesting to him to
approach from the sea. Its shape gradually emerged with the approach of the
ship. Finally, we were on the roads. From the command ship warm goodbye.
On the barge we were taken to the pier, from which a few days ago loaded
tanks.

We are Ali Obaid agreed to prepare for your next company.

The tanks have already begun to carry in the port area. I returned to my hotel.
With the onset of the summer to escape the heat, most of the wives left the
Union. Gone and my wife Julia. I moved to a hotel. I had a room and office.
When the hotel was the dining room. We passed the cooks dinars and they are
ready to order our food. In Foya was table tennis. In the evenings we arranged
the competition. On a platform mounted portable projector. After dinner,
watched movies often want the same for want of others.

The next day I went to the headquarters (40 km.) And reported to the Chief of
our trip, as well as plans for the next transportation company. He approved
and said that Moscow approved the extension of my trip for the third year.
After transferring tanks Tamudo can I prepare to leave.
However, life has made adjustments to my plans. I fell ill and was in the
hospital. The second and third flights have done without me. The task assigned
the leadership of Southern Yemen, had been successfully completed.
Upon completion of this complex task command ship (ten men) were invited
to the restaurant, located in Lahedzhe. First, there was a very original national
restaurant, and secondly, he was away from prying eyes. In the restaurant they
were treated to first class. Together with our advisers and some Yemeni
officers drank French brandy. On the tables in abundance was brought to
eastern cuisine. On request guests dancers performed the famous belly dance.
In the event money is available, the Chief of General Staff.
The sailors were very happy and, as said Denisyuk, very sorry, that was not
Chernysheva.
A few days later, according to our agreement, to our training center came to
the personnel of the commando battalion of the BDK. Ali Obaid introduced at
his disposal materiel on which the paratroopers were trained. Then he staged a
competition shooting from tanks and actions in combat vehicles. Shooting
won the paratroopers, and boarding and alighting - Yemenis. All took place in
a great friendly atmosphere. Personnel well talked. All were satisfied. Since
the officers of the Yemeni seamen were made good gifts. Who got the
Japanese watches and who the Japanese equipment.

In Tamudo on the border with Saudi Arabia appeared strong by local standards
group. Yemeni leadership was satisfied with us and continue to give us the
greatest attention.
With some officers, I already was in Moscow, maintains relations.
KUKHARENKO told me in a letter that the brigade's commander, Admiral
ships transferred to Leningrad, to the headquarters of the fleet. We are with
him several times exchanged greeting cards.

I, as I said earlier, we had the time to lie in the hospital.

In our hotel lobby at the bottom was hot and humid. When we played ping-
pong, a strong warming up and sweating. This was the cause of colds, some of
which have been subjected. I once overdid in the game and very sweaty went
up to my room. There is air conditioned and it was quite cold. I lay on the bed
and after a while he felt strong cramps in the lumbar region.

Repeat what was in the beginning of the march in El - ADB. The pain
intensified and I could not stay in one place. You could not lie down or sit.
Although the wall climb! On my illness, said the commander. Those two
officers immediately rushed to the "Land-Rover." We took a mattress, pillow,
but I could not lie. He sat, leaning on his hands. Up Aden rode forty miles to
work. They came to the Soviet Embassy. The doctor, examined me. I called in
Arabic the hospital, warned of the delivery of patient and issued a direction.

In the reception room of the hospital I visited the doctor on duty and
determined to put some separation. I was in quite a spacious double room one.
It was cool, air conditioned. But doctors did not. All had already gone. We had
to wait until morning. The night did not sleep, severe pain do not pass. The
morning came an Ethiopian student, practiced at the hospital. She put my
thermometer on the cheek and sat down in anticipation of the result. Following
an Arab came trainee and took my blood from a finger. Then came the
attending physician Soviet Armenian Ruben, a native of Yerevan. Carefully
felt the waist and kidneys. Then the nurse sent to the X-ray. Italian doctor did
X-rays and I returned to my room.

Pain persists. Ruben said that he would not be ready until the tests and shots
can not give medication. Appetite I had, and I did not eat anything. At the end
of the day Ruben showed me a picture and pointed to the ureter. In his
background he could see a white spot the size of polsantimetra. He said it was
probably going a little stone. Let's try to speed up its passage. But now the
cause of colic is understandable, can prescribe medication. First make
cauterized, and tomorrow will begin to take drugs. After the injection the pain
was released and I slept until morning.

The next day, from morning to frequent an Arab nurse. They brought tablets,
measured temperature. I asked Ruben what so often measures the
temperature? He laughed - a trainee independently go to you. They are
interesting to look at the Soviet patient. I tell them to stop bothering.
With Ruben, we quickly became friends. We even found common
acquaintances.
The hospital where I was treated - is a gift to the Queen Elizovety Yemeni
people. It was equipped with modern equipment. It employs doctors from
different countries. At its content Britain annually allocates money.

A couple of days I started to visit counselors and Yemenis. Sheriff Mansour

told that the tankers were arguing whose turn it is to visit Chernysheva. Once
in my ward put patient. He was a Spaniard sailor. He had an attack of
appendicitis. Then he underwent surgery and was transferred to another ward.
The hospital was paid, an expensive. During my stay in it paid the General
Staff of the Yemeni army.
A few more days and re-photograph showed that the stone had not changed its
location. Ruben said that it is possible to conduct an operation to remove the
stone, but it is better to do it in the union. I asked to me write. The next day the
car came behind me and I went to Salah al-Din.
Began preparations to leave. Agreed that the special plane fly away. This is
when the aircraft carried some special transportation and made landing in
Aden.
At the special flight, many dreamed of reach. In this case, the restriction will
be removed in the weight of baggage and could take away all nakuplenny
goods.

This special flight was expected within a few days and I have to prepare for it.
Evening with me to the hotel arrived and Ali Obaid said that the officers want
me to say goodbye to leave and waiting for me in my house. When we came to
see me, they saw a Foé spread out mats on the floor, on which sat along the
walls around thirty Yemenis and my experts. Before them lay the fruit,
watermelons, melons and stood a bottle of cold soft drinks. We had a great
time for talking, jokes, eating and drinking.

Ali Obaid Saeed said that what he brought and parcel. When it launched, I saw
a Bedouin dagger Jambi. Commander solemnly handed it to me, saying that it
is a personal gift from the Commander of the Army, Deputy Defense Minister
Ali Antar. In Yemen, a gift of it to units, was considered very prestigious.

Then they brought cat. I first tasted this light drug greens. A lump in her cheek
was very juicy. Juice swallows and drank water. After some time he felt a
strange sensation in my head for some excitement. More I've never tried, but
realized that it is.
ESTABLISHMENT training base.
After my return from vacation Konstantin gave me the task to carry out duties
under the commander's instruction and teaching sessions with officers of the
Yemeni Army Tank topics. Within two weeks we spent a lot of work: at the
range put tanks around them, tables, stands. On the tables analyzed tank guns,
stores and ammunition. At the tank ranges as set tanks. Equipped tents.
Prepared by the trainers. On the appointed day came to a large group of
officers. They spoke about the general structure of tanks, their purpose and
methods of application. They showed arms, provided an opportunity to go
inside the tank.
In general, classes went well and everyone was happy. We went to the
headquarters. Defense Minister Mohammed Nasser went with us. I asked what
help is needed. We are told that the plan to establish a training school and we
need help financially. He invited Ali Obaid tomorrow to come to him to
resolve the issue.
Training and material base of armored forces virtually absent. It is very
difficult for the training of new staff and improving the existing knowledge.
However, we do not have sufficient funds and personnel for serious work in
this direction. Minister of Defense provided funding and several cars. With the
arrival of ten Yemeni officers who graduated from Odessa tank school, three
tank battalions of advisers, commanders work intensified.

Near the park fighting vehicles were built one-storey barracks, used mainly as
a utility and storage rooms. We agreed with the commander of their release.
Planned to establish two technical, two fire, tactical class, the radio and others.
Warehouses and office tracked down the various posters. Good drawing paper
was enough. Classes were assigned to specific units and their commanders
were responsible for them. Picked up a head of school. Office responsible for
areas of work.

At warehouses were spare parts, some of which we used for classes. The park
was a long-expired tank. We spent a lot of work to dismantle it and refill units
and appliances classes. This facilitated the study of the material part of the
tank. For tactical exercises painted posters. Gradually it progressed. The
ultimate goal was to establish a school for training: tank commanders, gunners
and mechanics, drivers, and improving the knowledge of officers.

Before CTU headquarters was a large concreted area. We have it spaced,

placed at the edges of stands. Appeared drill plats. They began to hold regular
morning construction. Gradually got used to it. With classes for classes has
become a regular. I and my entire group to actively participate in them.
Communication with staff has been more closely. We have received from the
Soviet Union still fifty tanks and have already planned to cook for their crews.

Could officially open the school. Not enough rostrum. There were no boards.
Ali Obaid went to the chief of logistics. He suggested that the empty wooden
boxes from under artvystrelov. On the truck they were being taken to
artskladov, carefully disassemble the board and led the construction site. The
result was a neat little forum. Painted it, on the face of the consolidated
portraits of the Presidential Council. Installed before the parade ground.
Everything was ready. Equipped classrooms, Platz, sportgorodok. Recruited
new arrival. They expected the ship with the new party tanks.

Ali Nasser Mohammed accepted the invitation. Chief Military Adviser was
informed and was going to come with him.
Armored troops lined up on the parade ground, my team - next to the podium.
There was cavalcade of cars. Ali Obaid loudly reported. Went to inspect the
classes. In each class reported to the Minister responsible. He talked about his
vocation and the elements. The Minister asked questions and listened
attentively to the answers. He asked how many people and for how long you
can cook here. They returned to the parade ground. Accommodated on the
platform.

Stands commander. To the left of Nasser Mohammed (hand placed on the

fence), left him Gorelenko. I'm wearing dark glasses standing beside. There
podium three battalion commanders Adviser: Bochkarev, Titov, Denisyuk
specialists. Near lined Yemeni officers.
A presentation was made by the commander Ali Obaid. At the end of his
speech assured the Prime Minister's willingness to speak out against the tank
reactionaries (illyustr. Image).
In conclusion, with a patriotic speech by Nasser Mohammed. In particular, he
said that the armored forces are the reliable support of the Revolution, urged
the personnel to improve readiness and promised to provide necessary
assistance.

After the ceremonial passing units continued their conversation in the

headquarters of Ali Obaid. His office at that time changed. On the wall hung a
large map of South Yemen, drawn Zhenya Kozlov. This card was not even
Nasser. Stands are decorated with photographs that display the combat
training units. Minister drew booth with pictures of our voyage. He pointed to
the photo, where I'm standing in wet clothes, along with Ali Obaid. Asked
him: it is your advisor? Over coffee and Coca-Cola continued the
conversation.
In general, all were satisfied. The Minister promised to continue to pom
ogat BTV.
Looking ahead, I will say: at a critical moment of his confrontation with the
president,
when it entered the army, armored forces played a decisive role, speaking on
his side.
STRENGTHENING ISLANDS Perim.
Autumn of 1973 broke out galloping Arab-Israeli war. In the waters of the
Gulf of Aden started an American warship. The Yemeni leadership has
decided to organize the defense of the island of Perim, and block the Bab el-
Mandeb for passage of warships. To this end, the island were moved infantry
and artillery units, antiaircraft weapons. It was decided to move there and one
tank company.
At the rafts were loaded tanks and towed to the island. The company was
ordered to take up defensive positions in the eastern part of the island and cut
off the fire of the narrow part of the strait.
Gunners must override the western part of the strait.
After move forces to the island we flew there by helicopter. The group, except
for my expertise, was to command an infantry brigade, advisors and specialists
from artillery and air defense.
From the Aden airport, we passed along the coast, flew across the strait,
circled over the island and sat on a small airfield. We met and we started to
work. First of all, reconnoitred.
Perim Island of volcanic origin. No trees, no green. Pile of rocks. At the
highest point stood a lighthouse built by the British. We saw it. Within a few
small rooms. A lot of complex equipment. A spiral staircase up to the top.
Here were the holy of holies - the huge mirror. From the lighthouse was a
good overview of the entire surrounding area. We drank water from a
desalination plant. She has worked since the British and provides water for the
garrison. Experts spoke about the work of the lighthouse. What is still on it
complicated and expensive equipment!

Having the rocky terrain, we have identified sites for each tank. Place them so
that was a good review, the invulnerability of the sea, the opportunity to
change positions.
We had a heavy workload. To equip each tank in the rocks of 2-3 of the
trench. Enough to pick up the notch, to drive into her tank, front and sides to
impose large stones and chunks of rocks. Behind pave the way for maneuver.
Assign sectors of fire. Make a plan of training. Organize monitoring. The
tanks are well mask with camouflage nets.

Possible opponent could carry a landing in the northern shallow part of the
island in the territory of the aerodrome. We have defined the way the
nomination of tanks for him. The artillerymen prepared a system of fire to
destroy the landing.

After our departure, the tankers have completed the equipment of the trenches,
disposed tanks, organized surveillance and fire systems, cleaned the guns and
machine guns, established contact with the infantry commanders, constructed
his life. A plan of training, providing different options of a tank company.
Passed through the Strait of many merchant ships. They followed with interest
seen in binoculars and a telescope sights.
Ended the Arab-Israeli war. However, the units defending the island continued
to perform their tasks.
BATTALION EXERCISE IN 1973.
Prior to my departure on holiday, Ali Obaid began a conversation about what
we need to conduct exercises (lyazim minauer). We Alvi, who is chief of staff
BTV, went to pick up area. During the inspection area, I noticed strange
objects protruding from the sand. On closer inspection it turned out that a large
area of sand protruding bones of hands, legs, ribs, skulls. I called Alvi. Seeing
this picture, he changed color and said he urgently needed to go to the
Ministry of Defense.
This obviously people were shot. They were buried, but the wind blew part of
the sand and exposed them. The picture was very unpleasant. The next day,
Alvi said he reported the find to the Minister of Defense. It turns out that the
conspirators were executed, which last month attempted coup. Now there been
set command, which is filled with sand this area. After conferring, we decided
to exercise at a later date. Especially because I was getting ready to leave.
After my return from vacation, the commander said that Nasser Mohammed
asked when we will be able to conduct live-fire exercises such as performed in
the past year? I realized that it is necessary to raise their prestige.
We have actively begun to prepare. Officers have already gained experience in
such activities. Everyone has certain tasks. At last year's scenario spaced area.
For the construction of the targets were taken from the car graveyard rusty
cars and were being taken to the landfill. The officers conducted tactical drill
method of "walking on Tank, tankostrelkovye training. A couple of weeks we
have completed the preparatory activities. Ali Obaid agreed with the Ministry
of the date of exercise.
There were many guests: staff officers, commanders of brigades, the military
attache. I always kept informed of developments of the Chief Military
Adviser.
As in the past year, elevated a place for guests. They placed a large stand with
the plan of exercises. Commander with a pointer in his hands loudly and
briefly reported all the general situation and task of the battalion.

Tank battalion, received by radio command, was nominated from the source
area. All again, as in the past year. Only this time the crew was given a lot of
ammunition. Clouds of dust, the din of shooting, burning and smoking of the
target (not spare buckets of diesel fuel). The sight was very impressive. After
the crew reported that the weapon is unloaded, set a task to pursue the enemy.
The tanks moved forward, consistently Rebuilding in a platoon, company,
columns, and then - in battalion columns. Raising clouds of dust, the battalion
went into hiding in the desert.

All went into the field to look at the broken target. Admired, asked many
questions, share opinions.
The battalion returned to the area command post. The tanks built in the
company column, and personnel gathered on the analysis. Directly in the field,
put a table with microphones and chairs for the country's leadership. Tankers
were in dusty overalls and is very proud of themselves. We all had a great
upsurge of patriotism. Near the country's leadership. (illyustr. Image).

He made a brief analysis of the exercises and said the leadership of the
country's readiness armored forces to defend their country from the
reactionary forces. To the applause made Rubeyya Ali Nasser Mohammed.
Drove a Ford presidency. Because he unloaded bags with gifts and spread out
on tables. Then they started handing awards to distinguished mainly in the
form of money. This is especially true of certain officers and sergeants. Then
he invited me with my team and Rubeyya Ali personally handed each package
with gifts. The packages were Scotch whiskey, Japanese watches "Orient" or
"SEIC". Someone got kreplenovy length of cloth for a suit.

After the exercises. While preparing to review, I take pictures with his team.
Ali Obaid told me that for BTV allocated additional money and four new
"Land-Rover." President and Prime Minister were very satisfied.

DOCTRINE OF THE MINISTRY OF DEFENSE.

In early 1974 the Ministry of Defense of Yemen with the help of the Chief
Military Adviser conducted a sham tactical doctrine. According to the plan
from the sea to the shore of South Yemen, with air support the invaders landed
landing. He is trying to gain a foothold and to expand it. The Yemeni unit,
raised the alarm, nominated to the place of the invasion of the enemy, with the
course of his attack and destroy. The decisive role in defeating the enemy is
defined Tank Battalion T-34.
The command post, which was attended by the heads of state, commander of
the infantry brigades, staff officers, advisers and other persons located on a hill
with a good review. We Ali Obaid also observed the exercises.
The exercises began. By the shore began approaching three landing craft. In
the sky appeared the plane dropped a bomb on the territory of the landfill at a
designated area with a target. In one hundred meters from the shore with the
boats floating parachuted in armored vehicles and, firing from machine guns,
slowly approaching the shore. They were supported by fire from the landing
craft. Armored personnel carriers drove to the shore. Since they jumped off the
landing. Together they moved half a kilometer ahead and began to prepare for
defense.

At this time, raised the alarm on the infantry and tank T-34 battalions have
taken the source areas in thirty kilometers away from us. The command from
the control point, they were nominated for the attack. Advancing climax. On
the horizon there were clouds of dust, appeared a column of tanks and trucks
with infantry. With elevations from CP was a good review. Tank company,
swung to the combat line, together with the infantry attacked the enemy and
reached the coastline. Exercises ended. On radio tankers gave the command to
line up in the company column and wait for us.
The President and the Prime Minister went to the area in the past exercises.
All went after them. Rode up to the president ran up in overalls and helmet all
covered with dust, with the report of the battalion commander.
I watched the president. He stood as if spellbound, and looked at the tanks.
They were in the dust. Bala middle of the day. It was a heatwave. The engines
continued to work to reduce the temperature of the coolant. Enthusiastic view
Roubaix Ali remembered for long. He's probably at that moment imagine how
the tankers will perform at his side at a critical moment in the struggle for
power. Looking ahead, I will note that in four years and they just play a major
role in his defeat on the side of Nasser Mohammed.

Externally, the teachings of the past did not make a spectacular impression. In
landing from the sea and aviation security were involved in a small amount of
money (one aircraft, three boats) It was not enough explosions and gunfire.
Action units were at a considerable distance from the observers. Striking out
and turned the tanks. But the fire, they also did not lead.

Night live-fire exercises.

By 1974, we already had one and a half, hundreds of tanks T-34.
Organizational formed three tank battalions. In Salah al-Din was basically one
battalion. Others porotno were deployed to strengthen the infantry brigades
stationed on the perimeter of the state border.
Yemenis strongly requested tanks T-55 "(daababad Hamsa wa khamsin).
In mid-1973 the ship brought more than thirty tanks T-55 ". They focused on
the basis of storage. By this time we have personnel changes have occurred.
Before I leave, the commander of an infantry brigades, too, Nasser
Mohammed, was appointed, apparently for political reasons, the commander
of BTV. Mansour Sheriff left the military chief of staff of the college, located
geographically close to us. Often came to our office and shared the latest
news. Ali Obaid returned to the execution of his Chief of Staff of BTV.
In the first conversation with a new team, I raised the issue of transportation
from the base (30 km.) Tanks T-55 "and the urgent preparation of the
battalion. He answered evasively, promise. In the end, I categorically told him
that we can no longer postpone the preparation of the battalion. We had a
dispute. He expressed his dissatisfaction in the sense that we do not have to
command. He was a tanker and tank cases did not understand. Do not know
what to do with T-55 ". This he said to me directly. I replied to him that I
know what to do as his task to listen to me and help.
At the exit from the staff were the commanders. As soon as I left, they rushed
into the office. Voices were heard at the high tones. I was in my office, when
he came Alvi and said that Muhammad asked me to come to him. Along the
way he described how the officers expressed their dissatisfaction with the new
commander. Seeing me, being pardonable Nasser Mohammed said in a tone
that I did not quite understand and that he now goes to the Ministry to solve
the problem.

A couple of hours he returned, he said that the matter had been resolved, and
tomorrow you can start the transport tanks. Then I learned that the Ministry
has called Ali and Obaid said that the new commander to hamper the
preparation of the battalion. When he appeared there he ordered the minister to
immediately commence the voyage, and to continue listening to the counselor.
From Aden called Concerned Konstantin and said that he is leaving
immediately to us. I warned him that all the issues settled and problems no
longer exist. Soon after he arrived. I recounted to him the situation and led to
the team. Our conversation over a cup of coffee held in a friendly atmosphere.
The conflict was settled.
The next day at the base to send the command to prepare the tanks for
transportation. Transfer to the onset of darkness, while police blocked roads
and provided free travel trailer.
We formed a crew, taking them from the tanks T-34 "so that they quickly
mastered the 55-ki. I asked an adviser to do it the 1 st Battalion Valera
Denisyuk. And for the tanks T-34 "began to prepare a new crew.
At this time, along with tanks came and educational kits. They began to equip
new classrooms. I myself left for vacation. Before leaving, the new
commander Nasser Mohammed, with whom we have established friendly
relations, asked me to give him a hunting rifle from the Union. Being in
Sukhumi, I am with school friends bought in the store a good shotgun. I
managed to carry it through customs Sheremet'yevskiy airport, putting 25
rubles customs officer.

When I returned from vacation, Nasser has been appointed commander of an

infantry brigade stationed in Tamudo. With great difficulty he had brought a
gun and ammo I sent him there. As I was later told he was delighted and I was
very grateful. Some time later, a messenger arrived from him, and brought me
a huge Bedouin carpet, woven from camel hair. I gave it lived in a neighboring
house with me Obaid Ali, who once again became the commander. He was
happy to spread a large mat on the tiled floor, where his children played.
For my return from vacation, my boys have already completed training on the
new tank tanks. Yemenis did not cease to admire them. A new tank battalion is
ready to "T-55".
One morning, Ali Obaid told me that a battalion of T-55 "on the orders of the
President early in the morning the alarm left for Ed Daly on the border with
North Yemen. It began talks with the president of North Yemen and the
battalion provided security Roubaix Ali. By evening the battalion returned.
Henceforth he was called a battalion of the president's name. Ali Obaid told
me that a battalion of T-34 ", which we prepared an accelerated method, at the
request of personnel of the battalion received the name Chernyshev.
Shortly after the Ministerial exercises Ali Obaid Alvi and started talking about
the possibility of conducting exercises on the tanks T-55 ". We had to make a
good impression on the country's leaders to make it easier to solve financial
and material problems of armored forces.
Some days we toured the area in search of an acceptable area for the conduct
of tactical exercises with live firing with two tank battalions of the day and
night. With a suitable area defined. Denote it on the map and the terrain.
Developed a plan for conducting exercises and struck him on drawing paper. I
defined the theme: "The onset of a tank battalion in defending enemy during
the day. Entering into battle tank battalion of the second echelon of the night
with the nomination of the source area for the development of the offensive in
depth.

All commanders and chiefs have set specific targets. Are distinguished, special
teams and operations to prepare the entire region. Office responsible for the
preparation of certain sections. Techniques and vooruzhentsy under the
leadership of my team examines the technical condition of the tanks. Made a
lesson plan with the personnel departments. We spent methodical instruction
and training of officers. Over a month was a preparatory work. She was
fascinated by all.
Such exercises in southern Arabia have not yet undertaken. Fired from tanks at
night Yemenis do not represent. We conducted intensive studies on the
development of night vision devices. We were engaged in driving a tank at
night. Conducted tankostrelkovye training at night with shooting at targets
vintpatronami, tactical drill at night by "walking the tank" for an offensive
topic.
Two weeks before the exercise went to comprehensive training day and then at
night. On the big truck built a viewing platform for heads of state. We put
tables and chairs. They put him through binoculars. This mobile viewing
platform on the machine should move from one vantage point to another
behind the advancing units.
My team in 1974. Right to left: Technician Volodya goldfinches, counselors
Valera Denisyuk Mikhail Bochkarev, zampoteh Nikolai Popov, translators
Sasha Alexeev and Farhad, a specialist in communications Evgeny Kozlov,
Alexei Titov advisor, an expert on armament, Igor Krinitsyn.
Every morning I have specified the task to his officers, and at the end of the
day accept the reports of the work done. However, Alvi visiting regions to
verify the training and provide the necessary assistance.
Six weeks had been intense and, finally, we were able to report to the Minister
of Defense of our full readiness. Ali Obaid went to him to coordinate the time
of the exercise. I also reported on the readiness Konstantin.

So, a week is very difficult event. On how they will be, will depend on the
credibility of the armed forces and the whole of South Yemen. It invited all
the military attaches accredited in Southern Yemen, the brigade commander
and other senior officers.

The day of exercises. Home dynamics in 17. 00. The tanks are concentrated in
the source areas in the ten kilometers from the front line: two battalions - one
in the tanks T-34 (daababad tyalyata va arbain) and one - on a T-55 (daababab
Hamsa wa khamsin). Responsible razvezeny on their sites and directions.
Mobile observation point for the guests put on a hill next to the command
post. They prepared cooling drink, cook and servant for service. Initiation of
feeding centers personnel.

I am the Chief of Staff Alvi took their place in the manual, two tanks T-55,
and passenger cars with radios. Ali Obaid at the observation post (OP) with a
pointer in his hand in front of a booth with the plan of exercises preparing this
report. Before that we had great workouts. We all made sure that the advisers
never bulged. At the sight were some Yemenis. Thus showing that they are
trained to act independently.

By four o'clock the guests began to arrive. Arrived Konstantin. I told him in
detail about the exercises. He was to remain with the Prime Minister and
explain some issues.
Seemed cavalcade of cars. They drove to the observatory and were located
near a banner with the plan of exercises. We drove the president and prime
minister. Ali Obaid gave a loud command, and reported to the president's
willingness to exercise. After a short conversation with him he proceeded to
the report, showing the pointer on the big scheme of how to develop the
fighting. At the end of the report and answer questions government leaders
invited to the podium, installed on a large truck (we took her to the parade
ground combatant).

I did not interfere in that. Located on the tank and prompted Alvi what
commands to file units. A battalion of T-34 "produced in the source area.
Crews took place in tanks and waited only team. Exactly at 17.00. Alvi by
radio signaled to the nomination. From that moment dynamics. All watched as
the horizon rose a cloud of dust. There was a large column of tanks. Here are
the general column one company left to the right and one left.
The battalion was rebuilt in the line of company columns. Then the company
re-formed in a line platoon columns and exit to the line of transition to the
attack - in the fighting line on the front half to two kilometers. Company
commanders in their tanks moved two hundred yards of the battle line and
were served by radio command crews. Thus managed to maintain the order of
battle company. We Alvi, who served as the battalion commander, kept by
radio communication with the company commanders, and at the right time
served team.

All this from the NP was looked beautiful. On the eve of opening fire tanks
stopped at each of its pre-designated place. Immediately lay boxes of
ammunition. Crews on the team jumped out of the tanks, loaded ammunition
and lined up behind their tanks. We Alvi they did not hurry. Dali look around,
relax. Looked at the clock. On radio went off the team, the crews flew to the
tanks, took their seats, started the engines, dropped the barrel of guns.

At the command tanks went forward. In short stops made by two shots from
the guns. High-explosive shells scattered iron target. Fire from machine guns
were amazed infantry targets. The tanks were in the rear of the enemy two
miles and stopped doing their tasks. The battalion operated smoothly and
deserve commendation. It looked all with great interest. The sight was
spectacular and often led to cheers and replicas. But the main thing was to
come.
We Alvi moved forward to the new manual. We have the NP and went
traveling cavalcade of cars. Housed at the new location. I went to six o'clock
in the evening. It began to get dark. The transition from light to dark time
occurred just after sunset.

All watched as the distance in a cloud of dust are nominated by tank columns.
By seven o'clock it became quite dark. In the absence of the moon shone
bright stars. And in the darkness began to hear the growing roar of running
engines. All of them peered intently into the darkness to see the tanks. But
they saw only the flashing marker lights. The headlights also were not
included. The crews used night vision equipment installed on the tanks T-55 ".
And they all felt the appearance of right and left of a powerful movement. Past
us through the combat orders thirty-fours, on a broad front, in the dark was
moving battle line of tanks. They went to their initial positions and stopped
three hundred yards from us. Engines drowned.

With a very difficult task secretive nomination to their starting positions at

night a battalion of T-55 "coped successfully. Even in the daytime on the
teachings of the Union is not always like that. Most often violated military
orders. Some tanks and units stray from the prescribed directions, unable to
bear the battle order. Tankers know how hard to navigate the crew through
hatches closed-vision devices, especially in a big dust. At night the task even
more complicated, so the crews, when conditions allow, try to operate with
open hatches.

I have known curious cases. For example, in large exercises in ZAKVO

scrambled overtook the regiment on the march some logistics units. They
hinder the movement and the commander went to deal with them. It turned out
that this division of his regiment, the regiment moved to a closed circle. This
happens when poorly implemented commandant's office.

Thus, the battalion successfully reached the initial positions. The officers
reported on their readiness for battle. We gave the crew time is well oriented.
With a view to training to show observers combat orders on our team every
tank commander fired a flare bomb. They soared at the same time and in their
light tanks could be seen, get ready for an attack on a broad front. All the
actions we are well rehearsed in advance.

Principal moment has come. We Alvi on KP on a tank. He went into radio

contact with the crew. Gave the necessary commands. From company
commanders received reports of readiness for battle. At the point of
observation guests in anticipation of intense curiosity. Before that, I went
there, talked to the chief military adviser.

Spoken Alvi, to start. He consistently gave the command to start the engine,
charge the gun, bring the target and, after a pause, - fire!
On regular exercise is not grandstanding this was not done. Issue commands,
tanks rushed forward and as target detection fired. But we had to produce the
maximum effect on the audience. Therefore, our team of almost thirty tanks at
the front and a half kilometers, almost simultaneously shot from a 100 MM
guns. High-explosive shells, followed by the tracer lights traced the night
darkness and landed at standing targets 500-700 meters away. Raised therein
fuel in buckets when the projectile hit ignited, adding to the explosion.
After the shot the tanks moved forward. In the large space was shooting guns,
exploding shells, burned a target, the engines rumbled, moving tanks was
rumbling. Shoot the guns, went to the firing of guns. Fire trails flew over the
field. The attacking line of tanks was removed to the horizontal. On reaching
the targets set, they stopped. Combat mission accomplished.
The weapon is unloaded and unspent ammunition cartridges are collected and
packed in boxes. Company commanders personally inspect each tank and only
once for compliance with all safety rules, report to the battalion commander.
From the vantage point the officer ran up and warned that to us are the
President and the Prime Minister. We Alvi prepared for their meeting. Led
them to us Ali Obaid. They helped up on the tank. They examined him with
curiosity, and then volunteered to climb inside the tank. In turn sat on the
ground commander, gunner's gun, the driver. With great curiosity in the night-
vision devices, asked questions, listened to explanations. After familiarization,
and saying goodbye to us, they expressed great admiration for what he saw,
warmly thanked us and went to their cars. They left, and guests also curiously
climbed on the tanks. They also gave the watch to night-vision devices.

Exercises ended. The leaders left. Company commanders tasked to

concentrate tanks in the park military vehicles. And we all advisers, including
the Chief Adviser, and the guests invited to Ali Obaid "haflyu" ie, the
reception. In the hangar, next to the dining room right on the concrete floor
and spread out the tank tarpaulins. We are a group settled on them. Servants
ran down bananas and other fruit, chilled bottle of coca-cola and Pepsi-Cola
trays with pilaf and other food. Our group set apart from other Scotch
whiskey. Yemeni officers discovered alcohol is not consumed. And only those
who studied in the Soviet Union, from our treats have never refused.
It was a hubbub. All told, shared their impressions. Successful effective action
Yemeni tank caused the rise of patriotic forces at present and in personnel.
This spectacular actions of their units before they can see do not have to.

We settled on the canvas. In the foreground in white shirts left to right: Igor
Krinitsyn, General Konstantin Gorelenkov, right and left of the general staff,
more visible to my face for the head nachfina Peter Chernoff, Eugene Kozlov,
new zampoteh and Yemeni officer. In the background - Yemeni officers were
invited to the exercises.

After the exercise.

A few days later, Konstantin Ivanovich decided to invite the Chief of Staff and
several other officers at a friendly picnic. He invited me to discuss
organizational issues. Given my experience in these matters, he asked me to
lead this event. Decided to hold a picnic on the beach in the training center on
Friday night (output).

Before the meeting we went to Julia Aden market, bought fresh mutton,
vegetables and fruits. Prepared basturmak (pieces of meat drenched with
pomegranate juice, with finely chopped onion and lightly prisolennymi),
bought fresh bread, cooked dishes and other necessary things. Whiskey and
beer to take Konstantinovich Ivanovich. By evening picnic spot was prepared.
Supplied with two tables, expanded dishes, bread, snacks, and everything you
need. Meat threaded on skewers alternately with onion and tomatoes.

Kosterchik broke. It was filled with charcoal. Were displayed cars. Konstantin
rode with their alternates and guests.
Work boil. Kebab cooked together.

Konstantin took the sample and assessed the readiness kebab

At tables set up whiskey, beer, cold drinks. Pieces of ice in a thermos.
The company received a friendly and cheerful. Yemenis studying in our
schools and could be explained in Russian. Naturally there and learned to
drink alcohol. Jokes and anecdotes interspersed with serious conversations,
which were conducted in a fiduciary capacity. We have learned much of what
was going on in the political summit, the leaders of the relations of the country
and much of what we have been useful to know.
In general, picnic turned out well. We fried skewers on the second circle.
They did not like. Long goodbye, and agreed to regularly hold such a picnic.
Organization of the next meeting of Yemenis have undertaken.

Everyday life.

The town where we lived, consisted of three parts. Town in which lived
Yemenis - military families. There were a grocery store and sanitary facilities.
War College and Training Center, train officers and NCOs. There was a
armored troops with tanks, hangars, two-story hotel for bachelors. It housed
our offices. The first floor was a dining room, spacious hall and a playground
for viewing movies.

Half a kilometer of the territory were ground and tankodrom. Near - helipad.
Separately, three hundred meters at the foot of the rocky mountains, in the
form of a horseshoe located town of advisers (the former town of the British).
It consisted of a two-storey kotedzhey, with courtyards surrounded by a stone
fence. The adjacent territory kotedzham grown trees, shrubs and flowers.
Inside the horseshoe is a sporting ground. The whole area is enclosed by
barbed wire and it was accessible only through a guarded gate.

In the town worked sanitation and plumbing. For underground cables with
electricity. In advisers in the small town inhabited by several families of
Yemeni officers, including the family of Commander Ali BTV Obeyta. His
house was adjacent to ours.
Every house is air conditioned, under the ceiling hung a large fan. Sleep
without a working air conditioner was not possible. Under damp muggy. The
body was covered with abundant then.
In kotedzhe on the first floor is a kitchen and a large hall with a tile floor.
On the second floor - three rooms, toilet and shower.
Senior Advisers relied separate kotedzh, advisers, experts and interpreters -
house for two families.
View from the roof of our house

Spacious rooms on the first floor. On the right is seen conditioner. Here we
rested. receive the guests. Interestingly, the walls sometimes running lizard
At the entrance to the house of a good site. In the evenings you can relax in an
armchair, knitting,
listen to music from the Japanese MAGNETOLAS. In front of greenery and
flowers.
Early in the morning came the call kid, carrying bread: Ruthie, Ruthie, Ruthie.
Women came out of the house to the bread carriage, surrounded by Arab
youngsters. All bought up Ruthie (bread). Julia holds a hot fresh buns.
Between the houses volleyball and tennis courts. There is a competition
between teams of college, training center, tankers and artillerymen. The game
is played and a woman. Played recklessly. Sometimes competed with the
Cuban pilots who came to Yemen in the 73-m and settled on the mountain in
the former home of the English manager of the refineries. Here already
exhibited our collective team, which included our best players.
In 1971-74-ies, we had high interest rates, allowing for a good eat and buy
beautiful things. South Yemen was a zone free of duty-free trade. In the port
of Aden to bring goods from all countries and sold at cheaper prices, without
duty taxes. When you enter a Soviet ship, the orderly withdrawal of marines in
the city under the supervision of the commander.
Sailors in large quantities purchased gas headscarf. At one dinar could buy a
dozen scarves. In the Union they cost ten times more expensive. High demand
they used belonged to the Italian fashion paralonovye coat. In Aden, coat
worth one dinar, and in the Union - 180 - 200 rubles. Sailors and Soviet
tourists were buying their bags. Dealers were preparing for the arrival of the
sailors.
In shops and corner shops selling Japanese audio equipment, cameras,
watches, beautiful Italian, Japanese, Chinese dishes. Strong demand, Chinese
pens. In fashion included kreplenovaya matter. She was beautiful and cheap.
Many countries import goods duty free. Therefore, prices were low. Twice a
week for a trip to Aden stood bus.
Once went to buy food at the market and in English shop. In the market our
bus met guys. In their hands they carried large wicker basket. When
approaching a bus, each searching for their "madam". Having seen running up
and offered his services. As the market went with Madame, showing where to
buy. Shopping piled in a basket and carried to the bus. Then get a decent
reward.
At the market in large quantities of vegetables, fruits, meat, fish. Refrigerators
were not, but the heat was great. Therefore, the meat was in a living form.
Seller is able, in the presence of the buyer skinned lamb and give fresh meat.
Women tend to make orders, and then come to shop.

In large quantities in a separate hangar offered a rich fish. We have strong

demand, grouper, parrot fish and tuna.
Once a week, stood a bus to town for various purchases. At the disposal of
senior advisers had a sedan car "image. The picture shows her driver
Muhammad waiting for our house. But we preferred to go with all of the bus.
It was friendly and cheerful.

Every Friday we went to the sea. Got up early in the morning, brush up and
have a snack in front of the house went on the road. With a take snacks and
cold drinks.
Well, one must both chased after a man,
yes even for your own husband!
Sasha and Zavyalov battle in chess

The water in the sea was warm. Swim, sunbathe, play chess, taking pictures,
kids frolic, were engaged in hunting for fish and at 12 00 left in the town.
Enough sleep till evening. Then we went to the office to watch film.
Sometimes, though rarely, we went on trips. Acquainted with the surrounding
Aden region.

In late 1972, I traveled to the area of Bab al-Mandab Strait, where the
mountains Kharaz located our new tank company. There tankers caught a little
monkey, named her the name of Saudi King Faisal and offered it to me. It was
so hilarious creature that does not take it I could not.

After all the work early in the morning we left for Aden. On my knees, I sat
Faisal. Around his neck was a rope to escape. He was very dirty, and from it
proceeded a strong smell .. After some time I had to remove him from his
knees, to stop the car and we clean pants. They built it on the floor "Androver.
He kept twitching and trying to escape. In general, with great difficulty able to
take him to the Salah al-Din.

The first task was to wash it. The kitchen was a large oval metal grid. We Julia
in the yard on a concrete floor was covered with Faisal that the grid and from a
hose poured warm water. Incredible cry rang out over the town. Faisal terribly
afraid of water and tried to escape. However, we have continued to be washed
and it flowed muddy streams. When released it into the house, he strongly
rumbling, looked at us and clearly expressed its resentment.

However, when Julia offered him bananas, he quickly forgot everything. With
theatrical skill peeled banana and sent him into his mouth. With great pleasure
we were treated to cake and very soon ceased to have offended. We called him
Tom. It was incredible humorist, drove us from laughter to tears. But at home
he was very sticky and had to let him go to town. Soon he became a general
favorite. In the town only, and could hear Tom, Tom, Tom.

Vecherkom we Yulia called Tom, Tom, and he, hearing us, ridiculous sped
across to us. Rushed up, stand up on his hind legs and demanded that Julia
banana. Julia offered him unpeeled banana. He immediately grabbed him and
began to peel, such as in a special way. Palm of the left paw holding a banana
base, so that he stood upright, and fingers of his right foot, starting from the
top, slowly and gently just an artistic shot with his strip of peel.

Cleared a banana, with great pleasure, not paying any attention to anybody, ate
it. Then looked inquiringly at Julia in the hope of getting something else. I
showed him a handful of raisins and slowly poured it into his trouser pocket.
Tom carefully watched over me and when I turned away, sneak up behind
him, ran his paw into his pocket, emptied the raisins and quickly ran off.
Neighbors gathered to look at his self-indulgence.

Whelp one of the dogs in our town. Puppies have grown up a bit and Tom
took over their patronage. He sought them fleas, turning from side to side,
looking under the tail, carefully growling. Puppies have enjoyed it immensely.
Among them, he never let anybody. If someone was holding out his hand to
puppies, Tom fiercely bared his teeth, growled and made threatening
movements. Everyone laughed heartily.

Among the day Tom liked to wander through the town. On the second floor in
the kitchen preparing dinner hostess, as thought, raises his head and the
horror! In the open window, comfortably, the little devil sitting and watching
the hostess. Up against the home grown trees. Tom loved to climb on them on
the second floor and in the absence of the hostess, than - any profit. Finally,
the hostess recognize Tom. How you frightened me! Tom was in no hurry to
get out. I was waiting for the food. Having something tasty, way down and
headed to another house.

Our guys played with him, trained him to perform different commands. The
whole town there doted. But come the sad end. One afternoon we Julia rested
on the second floor. Through the noise kondishina heard a voice from below.
When I went, I saw our guys. With tears in his eyes, they reported that Tom
tore dog Alexeyev. They asked for a shovel to bury him. I gave the boys a
shovel. Laugh the whole town has none.

Evenings in the town were volleyball battles. Played all comers. Around the
seated fans and their support. Came and Yemenis. Sometimes come and Ali
Obaid. He played awkwardly, but very recklessly. Our women are more
interested if they have any panties under her skirt. They could not manage a
peep.

After volleyball conveniently arranged on platforms in front of the houses

included Japanese MAGNETOLAS and fought in chess. And when, after
payday, went to town to shop, then showed each other who had acquired. This
product was beautiful. And in the Union is very scarce.

Many, like we have with Julia, the children were in the Union and we are
behind them were bored. Once a week, when the plane arrived from Moscow
to deliver mail, the town lived letters. Got them each in a few pieces,
especially after the delivery delays. Sending mail to "dozens" was expensive
and the means to pay was limited. There were weeks when the mail is not
delivered or visit her very little. Почтовики took her weight and bundles of
letters, it does not meet, were left before the next flight. At the end of the
month came special flight. It delivers the mail that has accumulated for the
month. After reading the letters to share the news and then all night writing the
answers. We had to have time to answer all the aircraft to fly back the next
day.
The big problem was to take place in the Union nakuplenny goods. Weight
limit of luggage limited to the ticket. Every extra kilo cost dearly. Rescued the
special flights. There, the excess weight cost is cheap and it being in rubles.
The crew on that something was. Senior advisers to use it. But others take a
special flight could not always. We had to find ways. Thanks to good relations
with the staff of the Chief Adviser, I have all my kids travel on a special flight
suit.
The biggest challenge was to get a warrant for the purchase of the Volga. Over
rubles in the Soviet Union "Volga" was only available on the speculative
price. But we in the Democratic Republic of Yemen received in Yemeni
dinars and bespolosyh certificates. Proportions determined themselves. On the
certificates in the Union could buy imported goods at the "Birch".
At the same Dinar could cheaply buy almost any thing deficient in Yemen.

These things are then handed over to the commission store and receive
benefits in five or even ten times. They do not always reach komissionok. Sold
out friends and acquaintances. Japanese umbrellas, fixings, lace, gas
headscarf, Japanese electronics, watches, Chinese dishes and much more. The
Union was all deficit. Our shops and stores were flooded with cheap but low-
quality goods, demand for which has long passed.

Money was nowhere to spend. There remained only "Birches"

and commission shops. The enterprises are sometimes distributed by lot of
tickets to the Czech footwear. Sometimes the shoe stores selling imported
shoes. In the evening took place, were long lists and periodically they
occurred, or could roll with the strike. This was a period of total deficit.

The Union of certificates could be sold with it for rubles. Bespolosye (both
Yemen) were one to ten. With a yellow stripe (Egypt, Algeria, Syria) - one to
five. With a blue stripe (socialist countries) - one to one. In the birches on the
goods was written for which certificates are sold. At bespolosy were no
restrictions.
Almost all my friends I was able to secure a warrant for the Volga. Went to
serve in Moscow, and owning a friends, I have all of their children after their
period of travel arranged to serve in places where they asked: Krinitsyna at
Odessa College, Denisyuk in Kiev, Titova in Minsk, in Scheglyateva
Novocherkask and so forth.
(Son Scheglyateva arranged to study at the Moscow border school. He
finished it and went to serve in Central Asia).

For a long time we corresponded, congratulated each other on holidays,

sometimes met. I have already mentioned that maintained relations with my
Yemeni tank crews, who came to study at the Academy of Armored, on our
own application.
He came to them in the academy. There were and are my guests. Gradually the
relationship lost.

DEAR READERS YOU BIG HELLO

From our friend BIMA!
==================================================
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FEEDBACK colleagues and their photos from an album.

(chapter in progress)
Dear readers, Looking at pictures can
anyone know their colleagues, friends. Such
case let us know.

From the album VLADIMIR Dudchenko

In a friendly company. Vladimir on the right, with a mustache.

A military delegation from GSH in Southern Yemen
headed by General Dagaeva

From the album Lion RASPBERRY

On the beach. From left sitting: in the dark glasses on his forehead - Leo
Malin,
right-Valera Shvaiko, above it is Zavialov. Rest
names are forgotten.
Summer playground for showing movies
Here we are 2-3 times per week watching movies and listening to information
Interpreters holidays in Tariq

From the album Valentina LEVADKO

Denisyuk Valery and Nadia, Volodya and Valley Levadko

In shops. Alekseeva Gal (wife interpreter Sasha) and daughter Julia, then
Valia and Volodia Levadko

.
Wives and children :1-th number of children Jura Levadko, Julia Alekseeva,
Lena Levadko, Nelly Alenina, Natasha (name forgotten).
Moms: Galina Alekseeva, Valya Levadko Raya Alenina, Rima.
By boat: Counselor Petrov Igor Pavlovich-in center
Alenin Toll-left and the interpreter trainee.
Bedouins in the market.
Our Tom bliss in the arms
Volodya and Wali Levadko.