 In the second half of 1919 Balodis led the 1st Courland division in battles against the Red Army in Latgale.During the panic that followed the sudden attack of West Russian Volunteer Army (Bermontians), Balodis was appointed the Commander-in-Chief on 16 October 1919.After the victory over the Bermontians, Balodis was promoted to General on 23 January 1920.