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Ivan ZelepukinHero of the Soviet Union
Date of Birth: 09.09.1924
Country:  Russia |
Content:
- Ivan Grigoryevich Zelepukhin
- Early Life and Military Service
- Heroism at the Dnieper
- Recognition and Later Life
Ivan Grigoryevich Zelepukhin
Ivan Grigoryevich Zelepukhin, a Soviet soldier, was born on September 9, 1924, in the city of Atkarsk, Saratov Oblast, Russia.
Early Life and Military Service
Zelepukhin graduated from high school and initially worked as an electrician's apprentice and electrician at the Atkarsk locomotive depot. In 1942, he was conscripted into the Red Army. From August 1943, until the end of World War II, he fought on the Voronezh, 1st Ukrainian, and 1st Baltic fronts. He participated in the Battle of Kursk and the liberation of Ukraine and the Baltic republics.
Heroism at the Dnieper
On September 25, 1943, Zelepukhin's 202nd Rifle Regiment was ordered to cross the Dnieper River near the village of Balyk. As a sergeant and commander of a mortar platoon's control section, Zelepukhin volunteered to lead the initial assault troops.
Despite heavy German fire, Zelepukhin made four perilous trips across the river in a single boat, transporting his platoon and its equipment to the western bank. He then bravely repulsed a German counterattack, preventing the annihilation of his battalion.
Recognition and Later Life
For his exceptional courage and leadership, Zelepukhin was awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union on January 10, 1944. He was also awarded the Order of Lenin and the Gold Star Medal.
After the war, Zelepukhin returned to civilian life. In 1947, he joined the prosecutor's office in Voronezh, where he worked until his retirement. He passed away on August 26, 1993.
