Description
Hero of the Soviet Union #3643
Awarded to Sergeant Aleksander Fadeevich Afanasiev (Александр Фадеевич Афанасьев)
For being among the first soldiers to cross the Dnieper on 26 September 1943. As a submachine gunner, he fought bravely, killed about 20 enemy soldiers, and was the first to enter the village of Tolokunskaya Rudnya
Made of solid 23 carat gold. It measures 31.92 mm in height including the eyelet, 29.74 mm in width and it weighs 19.4 grams without suspension. The the text Герой СССР (Hero of the USSR) is located at the center of its reverse right underneath the serial number ‘3643’. The suspension measures 26.17 mm in width at his widest point and 21.74 in height at the sides.
In very fine, about average condition with all parts complete and original. The raised areas show moderate wear, though the details remain clearly defined. The star tips display typical wear, and both sides have several small dings and scratches. The suspension hole has been reinforced, as is commonly seen with these stars.
The suspension includes its time period and original ribbon, rectangular plate, hexagon nut and uncut connection ring. Its screw has not been shortened and its original screwplate fits perfectly well.
Brief and specific description of the personal feat or merits for his HSU
Comrade AFANASIEV has been a part of the detachment led by Lieutenant SOCHENKO, which was the first to force cross the river Dnieper on 26 September 1943. The brave submachine-gunner many time proved the mighty power of his weapon. Going his hard and dangerous path, he firmly relied on his submachinegun and knew, that if it’s his fate to die, then only after his mission was accomplished. When the detachment leader SOTCHENKO asked everyone if they are ready, comrade AFANASIEV replied: “We are always ready to eliminate Germans”. The brave warrior cherishes the honour and independence of the Motherland. Comrade AFANASIEV awaited when his company crossed the river and joined it is the battle for village Tolokunskya-Rudnja. Having eliminated 20 enemy solders, he was the first to enter the village Tolokunskya-Rudnja.
The full translation of the citation can be read here
Brief and specific description of the personal feat or merits for his Medal for Bravery
Section commander of the submachine-gunners company Sergeant AFANASIEV Aleksander Fadeevich is bestowed for the combat engagement on 26 August 1943 [red. A mistake. Correct 10.09.1943], in which he proved himself as a brave and courageous commander. During the battle for the village Karabutovo, comrade AFANASIEV and his section found themself encircled by the enemy for several hours. Having assessed the situation and available options, he took a calculated risk and escaped encirclement. Utilising uneven terrain, comrade AFANASIEV led his section out, literally from under enemies nose, without any losses to his group.
The full translation of the citation can be read here
Biography of Sgt. Afanasiev:
Alexander Fadeevich Afanasyev (22 March 1909 – 3 February 1984) was a Soviet soldier and a Hero of the Soviet Union.
During World War II, after Nazi forces occupied his area in October 1941, he hid from them. In 1942, he returned to his native village and continued hiding until he rejoined the Red Army in March 1943.
He served as a machine gunner and later as a squad leader in infantry units. He fought on the Central and Voronezh fronts and took part in major operations including the Battle of Kursk, the Chernigov–Pripyat Offensive, and the Battle of the Dnieper.
Afanasyev distinguished himself during the crossing of the Dnieper in September 1943. He was the first in his platoon to cross the river and led his squad in capturing a village, killing many enemy soldiers. In October 1943, he was seriously wounded, and his left arm had to be amputated.
For his bravery and heroism, he was awarded the title Hero of the Soviet Union on 17 October 1943, along with the Order of Lenin and the Gold Star medal.
After recovering in hospitals and a sanatorium, he was demobilized in August 1945. Later, from 1948, he worked in Moscow as a procurement agent.
More info about on Sgt. Afanasiev can be found on wikipedia, pamyat-naroda.ru and warheroes.ru
Also included in the picture gallery are:
- combat diary 985th Rifle Regiment in September 1943
- infosheet for his HSU star
- infosheet for his Medal for Bravery
- a digital picture of Sgt. Afanasiev showing him wearing his HSU star
- a digital picture of his gravestone
Please contact us with questions
