Description
Order of the Patriotic War 1st class #18834
Awarded posthumously to Jr. Lieutenant Vasily Nikitich Komissarov (Василий Никитич Комиссаров)
For flying 11 successful Il-2 assault missions, destroying one tank, three anti-aircraft guns, up to 15 vehicles, and about 32 enemy troops during the Battle of Kursk on the Central Front (July 15-20, 1943). He demonstrated exceptional skill and courage, he led his flight through heavy fire, completed critical strike missions, and took command mid-flight under duress, ensuring mission success despite harsh conditions
Made of solid silver and gold. The main part measures 43.04 mm in width, 47.41 mm in height including the eyelet and weighs 28.8 gram without its suspension. The suspension is 32.37 mm in width at its widest point and 21.64 mm in height without the suspension loop. The serial number is located at the 7 o’clock position on its reverse.
In nice condition with sharp details and few signs of wear. The red and white enamels are flawlessly preserved, free from the typical damage or repairs often seen on the top ray of the star. The reverse is also well-preserved, displaying a dark patina to the gold. The suspension is original, complete with its rectangular plate, ribbon, and hexagonal nut. However, the eyelet on top of the five-pointed red star was cut off at some point and later reattached. Its connecting ring has been cut and its screwplate is authentic but not correct for this award.
Brief, concrete description of his feat of arms or achievements:
A young, fearless pilot. Boldly and bravely carries out combat missions, accurately selects important targets, strikes the enemy with anger in his heart, and conducts precise, destructive attacks.
In battles on the Central Front, during the period from July 15 to July 20, 1943, he carried out 11 successful combat flights with full bomb loads. With accurate fire from machine guns, RS rockets, and bombs, he destroyed: one tank, three anti-aircraft guns, up to 15 vehicles with cargo and soldiers, and up to 32 enemy soldiers and officers.
He skillfully maneuvers his aircraft above the target, masterfully pilots his Il-2 plane, and, thanks to his skill, Comrade Komissarov drops his load directly onto enemy heads and skillfully evades anti-aircraft fire and enemy fighters.
On July 19, 1943, while carrying out a combat mission, the leading aircraft of the group was hit. As deputy leader of the group, Comrade Komissarov took the lead and, in challenging weather and visibility conditions, led the group exactly to the target and successfully returned to the airfield.
For excellent execution of combat missions, he deserves the posthumous award of the Order of the Red Star and serves as an example for the young flight personnel of the regiment.
Commander of the 79th Guards Assault Aviation Regiment
Guards Major [signature] /Chukhar/
21st July 1943
Conclusion of Superior Officers:
Despite strong resistance from enemy anti-aircraft and fighter aircraft,
on July 28, 1943, he completed his combat mission at the cost of his own life.
Having struck the enemy’s anti-aircraft defenses, he perished heroically in the air over the target.
Deserves to be posthumously awarded the Order of the Patriotic War, 1st Class.
Commander of the 2nd Guards Assault Aviation Division
Guards Colonel Komarov
July 30, 1943
More information on Lt. Komissarov can be found here
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