 |
Alexander AlekseenkoMachine gun crew commander during the Great Patriotic War, Hero of the Soviet Union
Date of Birth: 15.03.1924
|
Content:
Early Life and Military Career
Alexander Minovich Alekseenko was born on March 15, 1924, in the village of Sukhodolskoe in present-day Ukraine. He lived in Krivoy Rog, a city in the Dnipropetrovsk region. Alekseenko joined the Red Army in 1942 and fought on the Southwestern Front during World War II.
Distinguished Service
Alekseenko distinguished himself in the battle for the Dnieper River on June 26, 1944. Using improvised materials, he constructed a raft and led his comrades across the river into enemy territory. He then defended the bridgehead against four German counterattacks, single-handedly holding off the enemy for an entire day.
On July 2, 1944, Alekseenko further demonstrated his valor by crossing the Berezina River and supporting the infantry in its advance. He destroyed numerous German soldiers and officers, and when his machine gun was damaged, he attacked an enemy trench with grenades and an automatic rifle.
Hero of the Soviet Union
For his heroism and extraordinary bravery, Alekseenko was awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union on March 24, 1945. He was also awarded the Order of Lenin, the Gold Star Medal, and various other orders and medals.
Post-War and Legacy
After the war, Alekseenko was demobilized and returned to Krivoy Rog. However, he passed away on December 5, 1945, and was buried in the military section of the Krivoy Rog cemetery. Alekseenko's memory continues to be honored as a symbol of courage and sacrifice in the struggle against fascism.
