A framed medallion of Field-Marshal Kutuzov, Prince Smolenskii

Field-Marshal Mikhail Illarionovich Golenishchev-Kutuzov (1747-1813) was born in St. Petersburg. He entered the Russian army in 1759 or 1760 and under General A.V. Suvorov took part in the Russo-Turkish wars winning considerable distinction. Having taken part in the campaigns against the French he was appointed commander-in-chief of the Russian Army during the invasion of 1812. His brave strategic tactics saved the Army and the nation making him the most famous military leader of the Great Patriotic War and the national hero. For his achievements he was awarded the rank of General Field-Marshal as well as the victory title of His Serene Highness Prince Smolenskii for a victory over part of the French army at Smolensk in November 1812. He fell ill and died while directing the Army at Bunzlau, in Germany on the 28th of April 1813.