Not much is known about Guards Major Vasili Ivanovich Pogotovko, other than what I've been able to gather from his group.  Still, it lends to a fascinating story! 

Major Pogotovko joined the Soviet Army in January 1950, so we can assume that he was born sometime around 1930.  He was probably Belorussian. 

In 1958, we see him with eight years of service, serving in Belorus, with the rank of Senior Lieutenant.   By 1965, he had been promoted to Captain, and in 1970, we see him as a Major.  We can safely assume that he retired in about 1977 or 1978, transferring to the Reserves as a Guards Major. 

Unusual about the group is his "For Saving a Life from Fire" medal, which was issued by the commander of Soviet Forces in Belorus, General Tretyak. 

Quite an interesting guy- hopefully more about him will come to light!