Description
Order of the Red Star #1517269 with booklet
Awarded to Sgt. Vasiliy Mikhaylovich Melnik (Василий Михайлович Мельник)
For displaying bravery and courage during the battle for Sofievka on March 10, 1944. As one of the first to enter the village, Melnik discovered a timed explosive set to destroy a bridge within minutes. At great personal risk, he disarmed it, ensuring the bridge remained intact
Since this Order of the Red Star was Melnik’s only numbered award, it can be considered to be a complete, documented grouping
Made of silver and enamels. Measures 48.30 mm in width, 46.21 mm in height and weighs 30.1 grams without its screwplate. The mint mark is located above, and the serial number underneath the screw post.
In excellent condition with a rich dark patina on both sides. The raised areas like the soldier and the lettering show moderate wear but retain most details. The dark red enamels are well preserved without repairs, showing only a small chip just above the center medallion. The screwplate is original to the period, and the screw remains unshortened.
Its accompanying order booklet is in problem free condition with all pages attached to the cover. This Red Star is the only award listed.
Short translation of the citation
Melnik Vasiliy Mikhaylovich – guard’s sergeant, commander of squad of sapper platoon of 306 Guard’s rifle regiment of 109 Guard’s rifle division.
Melnik displayed bravery and courage during the battle for the village of Sofievka on March 10, 1944. As our units advanced, he was among the first to break into the village, where the enemy was preparing to destroy a bridge using a timed explosive device set to detonate within minutes. At great personal risk, Melnik located and disarmed the mechanism, ensuring the bridge remained intact and enabling the timely and successful advance of our troops.
Recommended for the Order of the Red Star.
Commander of sapper platoon of 306 Guard’s rifle regiment
Guard’s lieutenant Ryabov
march 1944.
More information on Sgt. Melnik can be found here
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