Description
Soviet Order of Suvorov 3rd class #8644
Awarded to Guards Lt. Colonel Vasilij Georgievich Pichugov (Василий Георгиевич Пичугов)
For personally commanding the forced crossing of the Danube river while being subject to strong enemy fire and defeating the Hungarian 42nd infantry regiment in the process
Recommended for the Order of Lenin
Made of solid silver and enamels. Measures 50.31 mm in width and weighs 25.8 gram without its screwplate. The serial number and the mint mark Monetni Dvor are located on its reverse. Above the mint mark a ‘1’ is stamped often referred to as a ‘makers mark’. The minimum known serial number is 2142 and the maximum is 12247. Despite the high number range, only 4012 of these orders were awarded.
This original order of Suvorov is in excellent condition with flawless enamels. Its details are perfectly visible and the higher parts of the order show light overall wear only. There have been no repairs and the extremely long screw has not been shortened and maintained its full length. Both sides show an appealing medium dark patina and relatively few dings and scratches. The order comes with its time period and well fitted silver screwplate.
A beautiful, rare piece with very interesting research!
Short Description of his feat of arms:
“During the period of preparation for the offensive and the forced crossing of Danube river, comrade PICHUGOV was present constantly on his combat sector and performed detailed surveillance of the terrain near the intended crossing sight, and prepared his officers for the crossing.
Having received the order to commence the attack, comrade PICHUGOV personally commanded the unit during the forced crossing under strong enemy fire opposition. He crossed the river among the 2nd battalion and, exhibiting courage and selflessness, organised the combat operations and the defence of the bridgehead.
His personal example, inspired his men for achieving this very difficult combat mission.
116 Guards rifle regiment, under Guards Lt. Col. PICHUGOV’s command, successfully crossed the river with the limited available floating devices. The regiment engaged the enemy while still on the water, and pushed the enemy from their trenches. With its swift and decisive actions, the regiment captured and secured the bridgehead.
In this engagement, the first battalion of the Hungarian 42nd infantry regiment was fully defeated, 150 Hungarian soldiers were taken as prisoners and their vehicles captured. PICHUGOV has held the bridgehead and then seized control of the town Paks with a surprise attack.
For exhibited courage, bravery, selflessness, and skilful execution of a complex combat mission, Guards Colonel PICHUGOV deserves state award – order “LENIN”.”
Below you can read the full translation of the research:
More information on Lt. Col. Pichugov can be found here
Next to the ‘standard’ research we have added the followinf information in the picture gallery:
- combat diary of the 40th Guards Rifle Division
- combat diary of the 116th Guards Rifle Regiment
- combat order 4th Guards Army
- battle map of the town of Paks
- digital picture of officers of the 40th Guards Rifle Division, inlcuding Lt. Col. Pichugov
- digital picture of Lt. Col. Pichugov wearing this Order of Suvorov
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