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Valentin ZverevCommander of the reconnaissance platoon of the 200th Guards Rifle Regiment, lieutenant, Hero of the Soviet Union
Date of Birth: 01.02.1924
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Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Military Career
- Battle of Dnieper
- Hero of the Soviet Union
- Post-War Service
- Death and Legacy
Early Life and Education
Valentin Pavlovich Zverev was born on February 1, 1924, in the village of Lyapnya, Nizhny Novgorod Oblast, Russia, to a family of hereditary peasants. He graduated from a vocational school in Gorky in July 1942, specializing in blacksmithing.
Military Career
Despite his eligibility for deferment, Zverev volunteered for the Red Army in 1942. Until April 1943, he studied at the 3rd Leningrad Infantry School. From July 1943 onwards, he served as a platoon leader in the 200th Guards Rifle Regiment of the 68th Guards Rifle Division, part of the 40th Army of the Voronezh Front.
Battle of Dnieper
In September 1943, Zverev's platoon participated in the crossing of the Dnieper River near Baliko-Shchuchinka, Ukraine. They stormed enemy fortifications on the western bank and held a strategically advantageous position for two weeks, repelling numerous counterattacks. Zverev sustained serious injuries, and only six of his men remained.
Hero of the Soviet Union
For his actions during the Battle of Dnieper, Lieutenant Zverev was awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union on January 10, 1944. He learned of this honor while recovering in an evacuation hospital in Tambov.
Post-War Service
In 1946, Zverev completed advanced officer training courses and was discharged from active duty due to health reasons. He later served in the Ministry of Internal Affairs and graduated from the Military Institute in 1953.
In 1960, Zverev was recalled to the Soviet Army. He served as Chief of Staff of the Vladimir Oblast Civil Defense unit and later as Deputy Chief of Staff of the Rostov Oblast Civil Defense unit. He retired in 1970 and continued to live in Rostov-on-Don.
Death and Legacy
Valentin Pavlovich Zverev passed away on September 19, 1986, and was buried in Rostov-on-Don. He is remembered as a brave and dedicated soldier who served his country with distinction during the Great Patriotic War.
