 | This article includes a list of general references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. (October 2013) |
Johan Pitka | |
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| Born | 19 February 1872 Jalgsema, Kreis Jerwen, Governorate of Estonia, Russian Empire |
| Died | 22 November 1944 (aged 72) Estonia[1] |
| Allegiance |  Estonia |
| Service/ |  Estonian Navy |
| Years of service | 1918–1920 |
| Rank | Rear admiral |
| Battles/wars | Estonian War of Independence World War II |
| Awards | Cross of Liberty (Estonia) Order of St Michael and St George Order of Lāčplēsis Order of the Cross of the Eagle |
Johan Pitka, VR I/1, KCMG (also Juhan Pitka; 19 February 1872 – 22 November 1944) was an Estonian entrepreneur and sea captain who served as the Commander of the Estonian Navy during the Estonian War of Independence.
Pitka was one of the main founders the Estonian Navy and the Estonian Defence Forces of the newly established Estonian Republic at the end of World War I in 1918. Pitka was appointed the Commander of the Estonian Navy in December 1918, leading it through the Estonian War of Independence without losing a ship, and acquired important armoured trains and armoured cars for Estonian forces.
Pitka is often called "the Spirit of the Estonian War of Independence" due to his commitment to his country.
- ^ "Kuhu siis ikkagi kadus admiral Johan Pitka?". Kultuur ja Elu. Retrieved 7 September 2019.