 |
Tulebay AjimovParticipant of the Great Patriotic War, Hero of the Soviet Union
Date of Birth: 05.04.1921
Country:  Kazakhstan |
Content:
- Early Life and Background
- Military Service
- Heroism during the Liberation of Krakow
- Crossing the Vistula River
- Recognition and Awards
- Post-War Life and Death
- Honors and Legacy
Early Life and Background
Born into a peasant family in 1921 in the village of Mumra, Astrakhan Oblast, Tulibay Azhimov's life took an unexpected turn in the mid-1930s. Labeled as kulaks, his family was forcibly relocated to a remote settlement in Tyumen Oblast, where they resided in the village of Cherny Mys. Despite these hardships, Azhimov found employment in a fishing cooperative.
Military Service
In 1942, Azhimov was conscripted into the Red Army by the Surgut RVC of Omsk Oblast. Throughout his service, he fought valiantly on several fronts, including the North-Western, Bryansk, Byelorussian, and 1st Ukrainian fronts.
Heroism during the Liberation of Krakow
Azhimov's extraordinary courage culminated in the battles for the liberation of Krakow, Poland, on July 24, 1944. Amidst fierce enemy fire, he relentlessly pursued the retreating German forces. Crossing the Vistula River, he engaged in intense close-quarters combat, eliminating 15 enemy soldiers.
Notably, Azhimov detected and neutralized an enemy sniper, eliminating a significant threat to his battalion's advance. He ventured into a burning building and eliminated the sniper with a decisive burst of gunfire.
Crossing the Vistula River
On the night of July 31, 1944, Azhimov embarked on a perilous mission to cross the Vistula River under heavy enemy fire. His boat was hit and began to sink. Despite the danger, Azhimov swam to the opposite shore and immediately established a foothold.
During the ensuing battle, Azhimov was wounded, but refused to retreat. With unwavering determination, he pressed forward, fighting back with renewed vigor.
Recognition and Awards
For his extraordinary acts of bravery, Azhimov was awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union on September 23, 1944. He also received the Order of Lenin and the Gold Star medal.
Post-War Life and Death
After the war, Azhimov settled in Alma-Ata, Kazakhstan, where he served as a commandant in the independent military fire department. He passed away on February 14, 1988.
Honors and Legacy
In addition to the Gold Star medal, Azhimov was also awarded:Order of Lenin
Order of the Great Patriotic War, 1st Degree
Order of Glory, 3rd Degree
