Description
Order of Bogdan Khmelnitsky 2nd Class #1970
Awarded to Colonel Ivan Arefievich Didenko (Иван Арефьевич Диденко)
For distinguishing himself in the combat operations to eliminate the German tank group near Lakes Velence and Balaton, and in the subsequent offensive from 15 March to 18 April 1945, which led to the capture of cities in Hungary, and ultimately Vienna
Awarded only 2,390 times in total, of which 850 went to military formations and subunits, leaving roughly 1,500(!) awarded to individual officers
Made of solid gold and silver, it measures 56.30 mm in width, 54.82 mm in height, and weighs 36.4 grams without its screwplate. The serial number and the mint mark “Monetni Dvor” are located at the bottom of its reverse.
In excellent condition, with sharp details even on the raised areas of the gold center medallion. The obverse shows a few small dents and contact marks, but otherwise only light overall wear. The reverse is equally well preserved, displaying an attractive silver patina. The order has not undergone any repairs, and the screw remains unshortened. It is accompanied by its original, well-fitted silver screwplate from the period.
A rare award for a sharp price!
Brief and specific description of the personal feat or merits:
He distinguished himself in the combat operations for elimination of the German tank group near the lakes Velence and Balaton, and in the subsequent offensive during 15 March – 18 April 1945 for taking the towns Várpalota, Veszprém, Szombathely and then all the way to Vienna city. He exhibited high examples of courage and bravery, true Bolshevik’s management skill of his political assets and organisations. This all to provide political support to the combat operations conducted by the division troops. Comrade DIDENKO was constantly present among the fighting formations and rendered direct and persistent help in provision of political work in any combat circumstances.
Comrade DIDENKO conducted extensive work in utmost difficult and complicated conditions with the aim to establish reliable and timely deliveries of ammunition, fuel, and food, and efficient evacuation of the wounded from the battlefield. With his selfless work, comrade DIDENKO significantly assisted the success in our combat operations. He deserves state award order “RED BANNER”.[later changed to the Order of Bogdan Khmelnitsky 2nd class]
Below you can read the full translation of the research:
More information on Col. Didenko can be found here
Next to the ‘standard’ research we have added the combat diary and the combat path of the 19th Artillery Breakthrough Division of the Supreme
Command Reserve in the picture gallery
Please contact us with questions
