Life story
Balagardash Ismayil oglu Kuliyev was born in 1908 in the village of Gashymkhanly in the Ali-Bayramli (now Salyan) district of the Republic of Azerbaijan into a peasant family. He grew up in a large family with five children. Unfortunately, after the untimely death of his parents, the children were placed in an orphanage. This challenging childhood shaped Balagardash into a resilient and hardworking person, helping him to overcome many obstacles later in life.
Balagardash began his working life in 1927 as a tractor driver in the village of Kerimbeili, where he worked until 1929. During this time, he gained valuable experience in working with the land, fostering a strong sense of responsibility. From 1929 to 1930, he completed preparatory courses, marking the first step on his path to further education and professional growth.
In 1939, Balagardash graduated from the Institute of Oil and Chemistry named after M. Azizbekov, earning a degree in mining engineering. His education and determination allowed him to start a career in the oil industry, quickly rising to leadership positions. He dedicated himself to this field, which held strategic importance for both Azerbaijan and the Soviet Union.
With the onset of the Great Patriotic War in 1941, Balagardash Kuliyev was called to the front. He distinguished himself as a brave and skilled commander, becoming a well-known Azerbaijani who participated in key battles. His leadership qualities and resilience allowed him to reach Berlin, becoming part of the Victory over Nazi Germany. This period of his life became a symbol of loyalty to the Motherland and heroism.
After completing his service with the KGB, Balagardash returned to the oil industry, working in various leadership roles in oil organizations from 1954 to 1973. His knowledge and dedication contributed greatly to the development of Azerbaijan's oil industry.
Throughout his career, Balagardash Kuliyev received several state awards. Among them were the medal "For Victory over Germany in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945," the medal "30 Years of the Soviet Army and Navy," and the medal "For Valiant Labor. In Commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of the Birth of Vladimir Ilyich Lenin." These awards reflect his contributions to his country in both peacetime and wartime.
Balagardash Kuliyev was also a caring father to two sons, raising them with the same values he held: honesty, hard work, and loyalty to principles.
Balagardash Ismayil oglu Kuliyev passed away on December 30, 1993, from a stroke. He left behind a legacy rich in hard work and achievements that will forever remain in the memory of his family and colleagues.