Description

Soviet Order of Bogdan Khmelnitsky 3rd class #978

Awarded to Guards Lieutenant Ivan Trofimovich Lyalin (Иван Трофимович Лялин)

This piece is literally a textbook example for it is published in ‘Soviet Orders and Medals’ by Andrew Reznik (page 50)

Made of solid silver. It measures 46.03 mm in height and 45.01 mm in width. It weighs 32.8 gram. The serial number and the mint mark are located at the 6 o’clock position on the reverse. This early variation is made out of two parts; the center piece, portraying Bogdan Khmelnitsky, and the base. It is less seen than the later variation made out on one piece. The minimum know serial number is 35 and the maximum is 3223.

This original order is in excellent, above average condition. Some of the higher parts on the obverse show wear but most details are perfectly visible. The reverse shows less wear and both the serial number and mint mark are crisp. There have been no repairs and the screwpost is full length. It comes with its time period silver screwplate.

A great and rare piece!!!

Brief, concrete description of his achievements:

“During the fighting for the socialist motherland he showed bravery, courage, and heroism. Serving as firing platoon leader, comrade Lyalin makes the utmost effort and uses all his talent to educate his men and impart military skills to them. During the offensive of November 3, the battery commander, who adjusted the fire of the tanks, was absent, and comrade Lyalin commanded the battery. Following the artillery barrage, comrade Lyalin’s battery was deployed in direct fire mode in order to destroy the surviving factory shop and troops with direct fire.

During the period he commanded his firing platoon, comrade Lyalin wiped out up to a battalion of infantry, destroyed 7 machine guns, suppressed the fire of 3 artillery and 2 mortar batteries, and destroyed an antitank gun. While commanding the battery on the right bank of the Dnieper River, with the goal of liberating the city of Kiev and expanding the bridgehead, comrade Lyalin fought off 5 counterattacks by enemy infantry and tanks. He destroyed up to a battalion of infantry, suppressed the fire of 2 mortar batteries and 3 75-mm guns, destroyed 12 machine-gun positions, and knocked out and destroyed 1 tank. 5 of our own infantry attacks were supported.

For his heroic deeds in battle, fir his able leadership, for promptly executing his assignments, and for his bravery and heroism, he deserves the Order of Bogdan Khmelnitsky, 3rd Class.”

The full translation of the research: Translation_Lyalin

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