Valery Volkov Pioneer hero, scout Date of Birth: 03.12.1927

1. Heroic Pioneer, Reconnoiter
2. Combatant and Intelligence Gatherer
3. Editor-in-Chief of "Trench Truth"
4. Heroic Sacrifice
5. Posthumous Recognition
6. Memorialization
7. Legacy

Heroic Pioneer, Reconnoiter

Orphaned at the tender age of 13 or 14 after his father's tragic demise at the hands of Nazi invaders, Valeriy Volkov became a "son of the regiment" for the 7th Marine Brigade. Cast into the heart of fierce battles, he rose to the occasion, defying his youth.

Combatant and Intelligence Gatherer

Volkov fought alongside seasoned veterans, braving firefights and enemy assaults. He nimbly delivered ammunition to frontline troops, gleaned vital intelligence, and coolly defended his position with unwavering courage. His comrades remember him as a spirited youth who found solace in reciting Mayakovsky's verse.

Editor-in-Chief of "Trench Truth"

Blessed with literary prowess, Volkov took up the pen as editor of the unique handwritten newspaper, "Trench Truth," published in its entirety in the renowned "Pravda" newspaper. The single surviving issue, number 11, showcases Volkov's precocity and unyielding spirit, imbued with patriotism, audacity, and the indomitable will to survive.

Heroic Sacrifice

In July 1942, Volkov met his tragic end while repelling an enemy assault, sacrificing himself to halt the advance of an approaching tank with a barrage of grenades.

Posthumous Recognition

Volkov's heroic deeds remained shrouded in obscurity for many years until his former comrades-in-arms Ivan Petrunenko and Ilita Daurova shed light on his extraordinary life in the mid-1960s. They unearthed the elusive 11th issue of "Trench Truth," making it available to historians.

Memorialization

Through the tireless efforts of Soviet pioneers, the school where Volkov fought was identified and his memory was enshrined. His unwavering courage and exemplary sacrifice stand as a testament to the heroic internationalism of the Soviet people in their fight for freedom and justice.

Legacy

On December 28, 1963, Valeriy Volkov was posthumously awarded the Order of the Patriotic War, First Class, for his bravery and devotion. His name is now etched in the annals of history alongside the legendary young heroes Vladimir Dubinin and Valya Kotik, forever honored as a shining example of Soviet heroism.