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Ivan KrasildikovHero of the Soviet Union
Country:
 Russia |
Content:
- Hero of the Soviet Union
- Valor During the War
- Battle for the Dnieper
- Forcible Crossing of the River
- Defense of the Beachhead
- Aftermath and Legacy
Hero of the Soviet Union
Early Life and Military ServiceIvan Pavlovich Krasnikov was born on June 15, 1910, in the village of Baltae, Saratov Oblast. He worked as a master in the bakery department of the "Konditer" artel in Frunze before being drafted into the Soviet Army in 1931. After serving from 1931-1933, he was recalled to duty in 1941 for service during World War II.
Valor During the War
Krasnikov fought on multiple fronts during the war, including the Battle of Stalingrad and the Battle of Kursk. He was a machine gunner in the 685th Rifle Regiment of the 193rd Red Banner Rifle Division.
On October 30, 1943, Krasnikov was awarded the Hero of the Soviet Union, the highest honor bestowed by the Soviet government, for his bravery and courage during the crossing of the Desna, Sozh, and Dnieper rivers. He had three minor wounds during the war and received the Order of Glory, 3rd Class, as well as medals for his participation in the liberation of Warsaw and the defense of Stalingrad.
Battle for the Dnieper
In October 1943, as the Soviet Army prepared to cross the Dnieper, Krasnikov's unit faced resistance and a lack of supplies. Despite these challenges, they persisted in their preparations.
Forcible Crossing of the River
At dawn on October 15, Krasnikov's company began crossing the river on rafts and boats. German forces opened heavy fire, destroying two boats near Krasnikov. He and six other soldiers swam to shore with their machine gun and ammunition, establishing a position on a hill.
Defense of the Beachhead
The German forces targeted the surviving soldiers, killing most of Krasnikov's squad. He took command of the machine gun and held off the enemy. When his ammunition ran out, he and another soldier used hand grenades and then captured an enemy machine gun, killing numerous Nazis.
Aftermath and Legacy
Krasnikov's heroic actions helped to secure the beachhead, enabling further Soviet advances. After the war, he lived and worked in Frunze (now Bishkek), Kyrgyzstan, until his death on January 13, 1968.
