Pavel Kozlov

Pavel Kozlov was a Soviet Red Army soldier serving in World War 2
== Biography ==
Pavel Kozlov was born in Kiev 1919 to an alcoholic widowed farther after complications with his birth and the youngest of 5 children. His family was rather poor under the soviet regime and struggled to get by. Despite this Pavel would keep light spirited and had a natural musical talent. He would use his savings to get a hold of various instruments and spent his time learning to play to take his mind of the troubles of his home life. He would pursuit his dreams of becoming a professional musician in his teenage years making a name for himself locally. In 1941 at the age of 21 Pavel would be conscripted into the Red Army to fight against Nazi Germany in the second world war.
After the war he would return to civilian life greatly affected by the war. He would continue his career as a musician creating anti war songs about his experiences using a mix of traditional Russian songs and taking inspiration from American music he had been introduced to by US troops at the Elbe river. The songs, despite their dark lyrical contents would be quite upbeat and relaxing, often times he would use instruments to replicate the sounds of war mixed in with the songs rhythm. His music wouldn't be heard from or recognized outside of the USSR. Despite the songs never truly taking off they were a hit with a fair few number of people allowing him to make a small living off of his lesser known music. His songs were to eventually become lesser known over the years until vanishing into obscurity with a very little number of people recognizing the music. 
In late 1992, Pavel would suffer a stroke, severely effecting his health making him unable to work, he would be looked after by his family until June 5th 1993 when he would have yet another stroke, this time being fatal. Kozlov Passed away 5 months later at the age of 74.
== World War 2 ==
Pavel would be conscripted into the Red Army in 1941 following Germany's invasion of the soviet union. He would assigned to the 1st Rifle Division and would fight in the battle of Stalingrad in 1942. By the end of the year the Division would become the 58th Guard Division. Pavel would see the end of the war and be present during "Elbe day" where he would meet many American troops at the Elbe river where they would dance and sing songs in celebration.
== Trivia ==
* Pavel's favorite song during his stay in the army was "Katyusha" in which he would play the accordion and sing
File:Pavelreal.png|Pavel (centre) with his accordion at the Elbe river
Category:Characters
Category:WW2