Simo Häyhä: The Deadliest Sniper in Military History

Simo Häyhä, famously known as “The White Death,” is celebrated as one of the most effective snipers in history. Born on December 17, 1905, in the small town of Rautjärvi, Finland, Häyhä’s humble beginnings on a farm did little to foreshadow his future legendary status. His early life was marked by hard work and a deep connection with the Finnish wilderness, which undoubtedly contributed to his resilience and patience.

Häyhä’s military journey began in 1925 when he served a mandatory year in the Finnish Army. He later joined the Finnish Civil Guard, where his passion for marksmanship flourished. His skill with a rifle was exceptional, earning him numerous trophies in shooting competitions.

When the Soviet Union invaded Finland in 1939, sparking the Winter War, Häyhä was called to serve. Equipped with his trusted Mosin-Nagant M91 rifle and dressed in white camouflage, he utilized the harsh winter conditions to his advantage. His strategy was simple yet highly effective: he would camouflage himself in snow pits, hold snow in his mouth to hide his breath, and patiently…