Description
Order of the Red Star #35515
Awarded to Major Viktor Yefimovich Ivanov (Иванов Виктор Ефимович)
For effectively putting a halt to enemy advances and scatter their forces with precise artillery strikes In 1941, during the Defense of Odessa. He also gathered vital intelligence on enemy positions, engaged with the local population, and maintained high morale among his troops
This Red star was hist first of 3 Red Stars he was awarded
Made of silver and enamels. The order measures 49.59 mm in width, 47.44 mm in height and weighs 30.3 grams without its screwplate. The serial number is located at the 6 o’clock position and the mint mark on the 12 o’clock position of its reverse. This early variation has a round base ‘heel’ of the screw. The minimum known number is 27919 and the maximum is 44938.
In superb, well above average condition, especially considering it is an early WW2 piece. Its details are perfectly crisp on even the raised parts and both sides show an appealing layer of patina to the silver. The enamels are extremely well preserved without repairs or chipping with some minor contact marks only. Its screwpost has not been shortened and the order comes with its time period and well fitted silver screwplate.
An early award with great eye appeal and interesting research. Scarce as such
Brief, concrete description of his feat of arms or achievements:
On 03 September [red. 1941], the mighty storm of his artillery battery fire stopped the advance of the enemy infantry and tanks near the hill 60.3.
On 09 September [red. 1941], his artillery battery precise fire scattered concentration of enemy infantry and tanks attempting to break through our line.
On 10 September [red. 1941], he fired 24 shells at the enemy infantry near the hill 63.9 and forced the enemy to run away.
He built a cohesive initiative team at the battery, which provides reconnaissance information on the enemy positions and movements.
He conducts extensive work among the civil population present around the battery positions.
He ensured high moral and political spirit among the personnel, despite daily enemy barrages aimed at the battery. He deserves to be recommended for state award order “RED STAR”.
The full translation of the citation can be read here
More information on Major Yefimovich can be found here
Also included in the picture gallery are:
- an infosheet
- a picture of a cannon in Odessa under commander Dennenburg
- a picture of a book mentioning Ivanov
- a newspaper article in the ‘Red Star’ about the battery
- battle maps of Odessa in 1941
Please contact us with questions
