Description
Soviet Medal for Combat Merit #1808347 with document
Awarded to Corporal Nikolai Semyonovich Gogolenko (Николай Семенович Гоголенко)
For energetically reloading the [Katjoesja] rocket launcher while being subject to heavy enemy mortar fire and preventing a catastrophic incident with primers
Gogolenko was recommended for a Red Star
Made of solid silver and enamels. Measures 32.39 mm in diameter, 37.30 mm in height including its eyelet and weighs 17.7 gram without its suspension.
In about average condition with several dings and scratches but most details still present. All of the fragile red lacquer is lost and both sides show a medium dark patina to the silver. Its connection ring has not been cut and the medal comes with its time period double layer suspension and old ribbon.
The booklet is in excellent condition with all pages firmly attached and mentions this medal only.
Short excerpt of the citation:
Wounded 21.10.1943
Decree #02 on 21.01.1945 by 15 Guards mortar “Vistula” brigade, 1 Ukrainian front.
Executing the combat objective near the settlement Białoborze on 12 January 1945, comrade GOGOLENKO exhibited courage and bravery, selfless attitude and boldness. The enemy conducted intensive artillery-mortar fire at the area, where our firing positions were located. Disregarding this mortal menace, he was energetically reloading the rocket launcher.
Apart from this fact, he also distinguished himself during the rapid barrage phase. He carried out away two cases with primers from the firing position. This prevented possible catastrophic incident and ensured the combat objective was not in jeopardy.
He deserves a state award – order “RED STAR”.
Commander of the 2nd Guards mortar squadron
Guards Major PRYANIKOV
16.01.1945
More information on Gogolenko can be found here
We also included a scan of a battle map of Białoborze (mentioned in the citation) in the picture gallery
Please contact us with questions
