Description
Soviet Order of Bogdan Khmelnitsky 3rd class #1726
Awarded to Jr. Lieutenant Ivan Ivanovich Bazikalov (Иван Иванович Базикалов)
For eliminating 45 Hungarian troops, suppressing 4 machine-gun positions with his platoon and personally taking firing position behind a machine-gun
Made of solid silver. It measures 45.45 mm in height and 44.35 mm in width. It weighs 32.5 gram. The serial number and the mint mark are located at the 6 o’clock position on the reverse. This early variation is made out of two parts; the center piece, portraying Bogdan Khmelnitsky, and the base. It is less seen than the later variation made out on one piece. The minimum know serial number is 35 and the maximum is 3223.
In a nice, about average condition. The higher parts on the obverse show light to medium wear but most details are perfectly visible. The reverse shows several small scratches and its screw has been shortened by a few mm for more comfortable wear. The awardee made a suspension device made from leather to prevent his uniform to be pierced by the screw. It was probably attached to a button on his uniform.
This order was found recently in Germany in the home of a German soldier. It came together with an Iron Cross 2nd class, East Medal, Wound Badge in black and a Kuban shield. The soldier probably took it as a war trophy from the Soviet Lieutenant who was KIA in December 1944.
A rare piece with amazing history
Brief, concrete description of his achievements:
“Comrade BAZIKALOV’s platoon distinguished itself in the combat engagement on 04-05 October 1944 for the hills 842,0 and 886,0 situated on the USSR-Czechoslovakia border. During these 2 days, they repelled 6 enemy counter attacks and inflicted the enemy heavy casualties. Just during the engagement for the hill 886, the platoon eliminated over 45 Hungarian troops, routing the counter-attacking enemy many times. They suppressed 4 machine-gun positions. Personally, comrade BAZIKALOV many times assumed the firing position behind a machine-gun and repelled the onslaught of the enemy.
For determination in battle, fearlessness and steadfastness, comrade BAZIKALOV deserves state award – order “BOGDAN KHMELNITSKY III CLASS”.”
The full translation of the research can be found below:
More information on Lt. Bazikalov can be read here
Also included in the picture gallery is his KIA report, a map of the 274th Rifle Regiment, 24 Rifle Division on October 5th 1944 and a handout protocol
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