Description
Order of the Red Star #78828
Awarded to Major Pavel Ivanovich Maksimov (Павел Иванович Максимов)
For leading the 4th rifle battalion in fierce combat, holding off enemy attacks for six days, destroying a battalion of German infantry and ten tanks. When commanders fell, he took charge, leading the surrounded unit with exceptional bravery
Made of silver and enamels. The order measures 46.99 mm in height, 48.12 mm in width and weighs 28.7 grams without its screwplate. The serial number is located at the 6 o’clock position and the mint mark on the 12 o’clock position of its reverse. This early variation has a round base ‘heel’ of the screw.
In excellent, above average condition. The details of the raised areas of the center medallion are still visible and show few traces of wear. The red enamels are well preserved and without repairs and show some small dings and scratches and a superficial chip on the tip of the 3 o’clock ray only. Its screw has not been shortened and the order comes with its time period and well fitted silver screwplate.
Brief and specific description of the personal feat or merits:
Through his daily agitation work, particularly among non-Russian soldiers, he contributed to strengthening the morale of the brigade’s personnel in their struggle against the German invaders.
During the brigade’s combat operations since 28 November [1942], comrade MAKSIMOV was assigned by the Political Department and command to the 4th rifle battalion, which was considered the most challenging battalion. This battalion had just been formed and was primarily composed of non-Russian personnel who did not speak Russian.
Comrade MAKSIMOV assisted the command in properly assigning the tasks among the Communist Party and Komsomol members. He clearly communicated the combat objectives to everyone and introduced the slogan: “Die, but do not let the enemy through.”
The best Communists and Komsomol members were selected to fight against enemy tanks. As a result, the battalion personnel displayed extraordinary resilience, holding off enemy tank and infantry attacks for six days, destroying more than a battalion of German infantry and knocking out ten enemy tanks.
At the most critical moment of the battle, both the battalion commander and his political deputy were incapacitated. Comrade MAKSIMOV assumed command and for two days led the battalion while surrounded by the enemy forces.
Comrade MAKSIMOV demonstrated exceptional courage, consistently placing himself in dangerous positions where the defensive line was at risk of being breached.
He deserves state award order “RED STAR”.
The full translation of the register card can be read here
More information on Major Maksimov be found here
Also included in the picture gallery are an infosheet and a map of the 31st Separate Cadet Brigade (31CRBr)
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