Exactly one hundred years ago, on May 16, 1920, Maria Bochkareva was executed in Krasnoyarsk, the founder of the first women's military formations in Russia. She was a hero of World War I and represented the White movement in negotiations with the President of the United States, as well as with the military minister and the King of Britain.

Maria Bochkareva's life is full of incredible events that reflect the spirit of the 20th century. In her youth, she faced many hardships: at 13-14 years old, she became disillusioned with her first relationships, and then entered an unsuccessful marriage where her alcoholic husband treated her cruelly. Ultimately, she escaped from him. Maria reached the front after receiving personal permission from Nicholas II to serve in the active army. Soon, her comrades, who initially regarded her with disdain, began to respectfully call her Yashka. Maria fought alongside men and often surpassed them in bravery. In one battle, she voluntarily carried more than 50 wounded soldiers out of the fire.

Maria was wounded twice in battle and received the rank of non-commissioned officer. In March 1916, near the village of Zaronoch, the 28th Infantry Polotsk Regiment fought fierce battles for two weeks. During this time, Bochkareva not only saved the wounded, including the severely injured ensign Grishanov, but also personally led the remaining soldiers into battle.

For her exploits, she was awarded the 4th class Order of St. George, and later received three more medals and a second Order of St. George. The press praised the valiant woman, who was only 26 years old at the time.

After the February Revolution, Rodzianko introduced Bochkareva to the Provisional Government, where she impressed with her patriotic speeches, ability to express her thoughts clearly, and charisma, which even Churchill noted.

Maria expressed her readiness to create and lead a women's death battalion, which was meant to inspire men to return to the front by her example.