Description
Order of Glory 3rd Class #97413
Awarded to Sgt. Andrey Efimovich Samoilenko (Андрей Ефимович Самойленко)
For excellence in maintaining vital artillery communications on the Karelian Isthmus, personally braved heavy enemy shelling to repair 12 broken communication lines, and successfully neutralized a Finnish submachine gunner who was ambushing the road
Made of silver and enamels. Measures 46.9 mm in width, 48.6 mm in height including its eyelet and it weighs 25.0 grams without its suspension.
This early order is in a nice, above average condition considering it is an early piece. The enamels are fully present without repairs and show several dings and scratches only. The raised areas like the tower and the wreath surrounding it show medium wear. Its reverse shows some dings and scratches and the lettering CCCP and its serial number are still well defined. Its connection ring has not been cut and the order comes with a time period double layer suspension and old ribbon.
Short, concrete description of his combat feat or merits:
Working as a communications squad commander of the battery during the battles on the Karelian Isthmus from June 14, 1944, he proved himself to be a courageous, decisive, brave, and daring junior commander-signaler who knows his specialized trade well.
During the combat period from June 26 to June 30, while being positioned within the infantry’s combat formations at the forward observation post, he excellently organized the telephone communications work. By doing so, he ensured continuous control of the battery’s artillery fire, which secured the advance of the rifle units of the 402nd Rifle Regiment.
He personally went out multiple times to restore the telephone line damaged by enemy artillery and mortar fire. Over the course of these days, he repaired up to 12 line breaks, despite the enemy’s artillery and mortar shelling of the area.
On June 29, 1944, while walking along the line with a signaler, Comrade Samoylenko heard submachine gun fire ahead. He quickly rushed toward the location of the shooting and spotted a Finnish submachine gunner who was firing upon the road. With his own submachine gun, Comrade Samoylenko eliminated him.
For the excellent organization of telephone communication work, demonstrated personal initiative, bravery, and courage, he deserves to be awarded the State Government Award: the Order of “GLORY” 3rd CLASS.
More information on Sgt. Samoilenko can be found here
Please contact us with questions
