The 4th Aerial Photographic Reconnaissance Company: Two photo albums.

N.p., [1942-1970s?].
Oblong 4to, [24] l. (215 photos: from 8vo to 64mo); [23] leaves (141 photos: from oblong 8vo to oblong 64mo) + 2 photos.

In owner cloth.
In good condition, spine extremities and edges bumped, dampstains to  covers, chipping along spine.

Exceptional example of a woman's photo album of WWII.

These exceptional handmade albums were prepared by Sergeant Nina Rodina (1922-?), who served in the 4th Aerial Photographic Reconnaissance Company during World War II. This company was part of the 1st Bomber Aviation Corps, later renamed the 2nd Guards Bomber Aviation Corps and the 6th Guards Bomber Aviation Corps. Nina, along with two other women, served under the command of First Lieutenant Abram Baron (1912-?), who led the photographic platoon. The platoon's main mission was to develop photographic film and compile maps for Air Force pilots.
The albums, both official and unofficial, contain rare photos depicting soldiers' daily lives: troop deployments, military ceremonies, award ceremonies, and wall newspapers created by the platoon. Several photos of regiment personnel were signed, indicating their dates of death. Additionally, the albums include photos taken after the Battle of Berlin, showcasing scenes from Ukraine, Poland, Germany, and Austria.
Of particular interest are photos depicting the soldiers' work processes: film development using various techniques, photographic equipment and supplies (including German equipment used by the platoon), and the compilation of military intelligence maps.
Despite initial challenges, including limited reconnaissance capabilities and outdated photographic technology until 1944, the albums reveal that the photographic platoon was active as early as 1943. In May 1944, First Lieutenant Abram Baron was awarded the medal 'For the Defence of Moscow', and in May 1945, he received the Order of the Patriotic War (2nd class). Nina Rodina was twice awarded the medal 'For Battle Merit' (in August 1943 and May 1945). One of the albums also includes photos of Certificates of Appreciation for their efforts during the Battle of Berlin.
Photographs suggest that Abram and Nina married and remained in Austria after the war, likely due to the Allied occupation following the Vienna Offensive in 1945.