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Kirill VertyakovRifle squad leader, junior sergeant, Hero of the Soviet Union
Date of Birth: 14.02.1922
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Content:
- Early Life
- Military Service
- Heroism at the Battle of Desna
- Crossing the Dnieper
- Post-War Life
- Awards and Recognition
- Gold Star Medal (Hero of the Soviet Union)
Early Life
Kirill Romanovich Vertyakov was born on a peasant farm in the village of Mikhailovka, Orenburg province, in 1922. As a young boy, he joined the Komsomol youth organization and worked on the collective farm after completing elementary school in 1934.
Military Service
In October 1941, Vertyakov was conscripted into the Red Army and sent to the front in February 1942. He served as the commander of a rifle squad in the 310th Rifle Regiment under the command of the 8th Rifle Division.
From March 1942 until the victory over Germany, Vertyakov fought on the Voronezh and 1st Ukrainian fronts, participating in the liberation of Ukraine. During his service, he sustained two wounds in battle.
Heroism at the Battle of Desna
Vertyakov's most notable act of heroism occurred during the crossing of the Desna River near Koropa in September 1943. As the commander of a squad, he led his men across the river despite intense artillery and machine gun fire.
In a daring maneuver, Vertyakov charged into the enemy trench and killed seven German soldiers with his rifle and bayonet. Inspired by his bravery, his troops followed suit and drove the invaders back, securing a foothold on the opposite bank.
Crossing the Dnieper
In September 1943, Vertyakov's regiment was tasked with crossing the Dnieper River north of Kyiv. As part of the advance party, he led his squad across the river near the village of Chikalovichi.
Stealthily infiltrating enemy territory, Vertyakov's squad eliminated a German battery, blowing up a bunker and killing the crew. They also destroyed two pillboxes, capturing valuable documents and a staff car.
Post-War Life
After the war, Vertyakov returned to his hometown and worked on the collective farm. He became a Hero of the Soviet Union on October 16, 1943, for his actions at Desna and the Dnieper.
Awards and Recognition
In recognition of his bravery, Vertyakov received the following awards:
Gold Star Medal (Hero of the Soviet Union)
Order of LeninOrder of the Red Banner
