Participation of the Kalmyks as a Part of the Don Cossack Military Divisions in the Russo-Japanese War of 1904-1905

The article considers the involvement of the Don Cossacks, including Kalmyks as a part of the Don Cossack regiments, in the Russo-Japanese war of 1904-1905 provoked by Japan. Four regiments of the 4th Don Cossack privileged division and the 3rd artillery division battled against the Japanese troops in the Far East. There were more than 70 Cossack Kalmyks. The division and an artillery division were included in the Western group on arrival to the Far East, and then after reorganization – in the 2nd Manchurian army. The Don regiments actively joined in large fighting, prospecting operations. They caused a stir especially in fights for the Lidiutun settlement, in the region of Sandepu, etc. Many Cossacks and officers (including Cossack Kalmyks) of four regiments of a division and two artillery batteries have received high military awards – the Orders of Saint George, St. George’s Crosses, medals of St. George for the feats shown in fights. However losses were considerable. Due to the invasion of Japanese into Mongolia and their attack on the back of the Russian troops the commander-in-chief A.N. Kuropatkin allocated significant forces, including the 4th Don Cossack division, for a protection of back communications and fight against the Japanese diversionary groups. On the instructions of command they had to carry the active fight against the Japanese saboteurs on the extensive territory of Mongolia. For courage and skillful actions in these fights many Cossacks received awards. The Don regiments and artillery division came back home to Don only in April 1906.