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Ivan GangelaParticipant of the Great Patriotic War, anti-tank gunner, Hero of the Soviet Union
Date of Birth: 15.10.1924
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Content:
- Early Life and Military Service
- World War II and the Battle of the Dnieper
- Post-War Career and Legacy
- Honors and Recognition
Early Life and Military Service
Ivan Vasilyevich Ganzhela was born on October 15, 1924, in the village of Kovrino, Rostov Oblast, Russia. He hailed from a farming family and completed his secondary education. Before joining the Red Army in 1942, Ganzhela worked as a coal miner.
World War II and the Battle of the Dnieper
During World War II, Ganzhela served as a gunner for an anti-tank rifle in the 7th Guards Anti-Tank Destroyer Battalion of the 61st Army. In September 1943, the battalion participated in the Battle of the Dnieper, where Ganzhela played a pivotal role.
On the night of September 27, Ganzhela and his comrades attempted to cross the Dnieper River near the village of Nivki. Their raft was destroyed by waves, and Ganzhela, with indomitable spirit, plunged into the water, leading his fellow soldiers to shore.
After reaching the enemy bank, Ganzhela and his fellow armorers hurled grenades at German positions, captured a trench, and successfully repelled numerous counterattacks. Their actions helped secure a crucial beachhead, enabling other units to cross.
Post-War Career and Legacy
After the war, Ganzhela graduated from a cavalry school in 1945 and was demobilized in 1946. He held administrative and economic positions in his hometown and in Novocherkassk. Ivan Vasilyevich Ganzhela passed away on September 22, 1968.
Honors and Recognition
For his extraordinary bravery and leadership during the Battle of the Dnieper, Ivan Ganzhela was awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union on January 15, 1944. He received the Order of Lenin and the Gold Star Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon Soviet soldiers.
Additionally, Ganzhela was decorated with the Order of Lenin and several other medals for his service and heroism in the Great Patriotic War.
