There is a statement that Stalin was very fond of reading and calmly read 500 pages in one day. The main literature that the leader of the USSR preferred was historical works. He read almost all the works of ancient Greek and Roman chroniclers, read Stalin and the book written by Hitler - Mein Kampf.
Stalin's passion for historical works was also reflected in Soviet literature. So, the famous work of Alexei Tolstoy "Peter the Great" was written by order of Stalin. During the writing of the novel, the author, on the instructions of Stalin, received access to state archives, and it was thanks to the data received that the book turned out to be truly historical. Stalin was well aware that without knowledge of the past it is impossible to build the future, and therefore, in the midst of the Great Patriotic War he made an attempt to show his people how the formation of a great state took place.
It is obvious that it was the Russian Army of Peter I that prompted Stalin to introduce Soviet army guard units. Many took the decision to rename the four rifle divisions - 100, 127, 153 and 161 into the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Guards - ambiguous and even somewhat hostile. First of all, this was due to the emerging associations with the White Guard, but Stalin was not in vain a competent strategist and tactician, because it was at this time that the work of Alexei Tolstoy "Peter the Great" appeared, in which the guards are shown as real heroes who do not retreat from the battlefield , but showing heroism in confrontation with the prevailing enemy forces. This is exactly what Stalin was counting on.
Guards units became models of heroism for the rest of the military units, and each of these units sought to prove that it was also ready to bear the valiant name - Guards. In May 1942, a badge of distinction was introduced - the guards, in appearance it resembled the Order of the Red Banner, and each soldier considered it the highest award to wear this badge on his chest.
The guardsmen were Alexander Matrosov, who covered the enemy bunker with his body, Alexei Maresyev participated in air battles with prostheses instead of legs, Ivan Kozhedub, who shot down 62 Nazi planes according to official statistics. Indeed, Soviet soldiers cherished the honor of bearing the proud title of guardsman, and in every battle they proved that they were not awarded such an honor in vain.
During the Great Patriotic War, other state awards were introduced for courage, valor and bravery.
In May 1942, the Order of the Patriotic War of the 1st and 2nd degree was adopted. There is no such family in the cities and villages of our Motherland, wherever the military awards of soldiers deserved by them during the Second World War are kept. One of these awards is the Order of the Patriotic War.
The badge of the order shines with golden rays that emanate from a five-pointed star, and the star itself lies on a cavalry checker and a rifle. The first Soviet soldier who was awarded the award was Captain Ivan Ilyich Krykliy. Under his command, the artillery battalion of the 13th Guards Rifle Division destroyed 32 German tanks in the battles near Kharkov. For this feat, on July 2, 1942, the hero was awarded the Order of the Patriotic War, 1st degree.
On July 29, 1942, the Order of Suvorov of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd degrees was adopted. There is no peace without victory. “Victory is the enemy of war,” said the great commander Alexander Suvorov. The commander always taught his soldiers that one should never fold, even in front of a strong enemy, and one should always be ready for battles and campaigns. It is Suvorov who owns the words: "Nothing but an attack." During the Great Patriotic War, the Order of Suvorov became the highest award for Soviet generals. The first to be awarded the highest award of commanders was Georgy Zhukov. He was awarded the award for the victory at Stalingrad. He had the Order of Suvorov under No. 112 and Stalin. Zhukov perfectly spoke about the significance of the award: “To receive the first Order of Suvorov for me was not only an honor, but also an incentive for further victories. I could not disgrace the honor the greatest commander Alexander Suvorov, whose order was presented to me by my state.
On July 29, 1942, another of the orders was adopted, which marked the merits of Soviet commanders - the Order of Kutuzov 1st, 2nd and 3rd degree. One of the main mottos of Mikhail Kutuzov were the words: "One of the main goals of all our actions is the destruction of the enemy to the last opportunity." This motto inspired the Soviet commanders during the Great Patriotic War, and many of them were awarded the Order of Kutuzov for their courage. The first order bearer was General Ivan Fedyuninsky, who proved himself during the breakthrough of the blockade of Leningrad. Fedyuninsky received his award at the hospital, where he was treated after his injury.
Along with the orders of Kutuzov and Suvorov, another order was adopted, which was awarded to Soviet officers for their courage and heroism, the Order of Alexander Nevsky. The order depicts the image of Alexander Nevsky. His words: “Whoever comes to us with a sword will die by the sword. On that stood and will stand the Russian land ", were like a motto for everyone Soviet people. The first order was awarded to Senior Lieutenant Ivan Ruban on November 5, 1942. Battalion commander marines Senior Lieutenant Ivan Ruban received an award for courage, ingenuity and military skill, which the young officer showed during the defense of Stalingrad. The battalion under the command of Ruban defeated the enemy regiment, which was supported by a huge number of tanks.
In 1943 there were bloody battles for the liberation of Ukrainian cities and villages from the fascist occupation. On October 10, 1943, four days before the liberation of Zaporozhye, the Order of Bogdan Khmelnitsky of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd degrees was adopted. The first holder of the order was the commander of the 12th Army of the 3rd Ukrainian Front, Major General Alexei Danilov. So his merit in the liberation of the Ukrainian city was noted.
Soldiers' roads are shrouded in powder smoke, soldiers' banners are burnt with flames, perhaps that is why the ribbon on which the soldier's Order of Glory is worn is made in the color of gunpowder and fire. During the Great Patriotic War, the Order of Glory was awarded to soldiers and sergeants for their courage in battles with the enemy. The first holder of the Order of Glory was the deputy commander of the sapper platoon of the 140th regiment of the 182nd rifle division Georgy Israelyan. For all the years of the war, 2456 soldiers of the Soviet army became holders of the order. The order was awarded not only to individual military personnel, but also to entire units. So, for the breakthrough of impregnable enemy shelters, which was made by the soldiers of the 1st battalion of the 215th regiment of the 77th guards rifle division, the military unit was awarded the honorary title "Battalion of Glory".
An order that no one has ever been awarded is the Order of Stalin. The reason why the order, fully developed and adopted by the Presidium of the Supreme Council, never became a state award lies in the person after whom it was named. It was Joseph Vissarionovich who refused in 1949 to approve the order as a state award, as a result, the order remained just a development.
WWII ORDERS AND MEDALS
Military awards are the brightest monuments of our military history, reminiscent of the glorious pages of the struggle against the enemies of the Fatherland.
MEDAL "GOLD STAR" OF THE HERO OF THE SOVIET UNION
Date of establishment: April 16, 1934
First award: April 20, 1934
Last award: December 24, 1991
Number of awards: 12772
The highest degree of distinction of the USSR. An honorary title that was awarded for accomplishing a feat or outstanding merit during hostilities, and also, as an exception, in peacetime.
The title was first established by the Decree of the Central Executive Committee of the USSR of April 16, 1934, an additional insignia for the Hero of the Soviet Union - the Gold Star medal - was established by the Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of August 1, 1939.
On April 16, 1934, by a decree of the Central Executive Committee of the USSR, the title of Hero of the Soviet Union was established in the wording: "To establish the highest degree of distinction - the assignment of the title of Hero of the Soviet Union for personal or collective services to the state associated with the accomplishment of a heroic deed." No insignia was provided, only a letter from the Central Executive Committee of the USSR was issued.
The Order of Lenin to the title was received by all eleven pilots - the first Heroes of the Soviet Union. The practice of awards was enshrined in the Decree of the Central Executive Committee in the Regulations on the title of Hero of the Soviet Union on July 29, 1936. In this edition, citizens who were awarded the title, in addition to letters, were also entitled to the Order of Lenin.
By decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of August 1, 1939, a special distinguishing sign was introduced for the Heroes of the Soviet Union - the medal "Hero of the Soviet Union". Another Decree of October 16, 1939 approved appearance medal, which was called the "Gold Star". In contrast to the original Regulations, the possibility of multiple awarding of the "Gold Star" was now provided. Twice the Hero of the Soviet Union was given a second Gold Star medal and a bronze bust was erected for him at home. Three times the Hero of the Soviet Union was given the third Gold Star medal, and his bronze bust should be installed at the Palace of Soviets in Moscow. The issuance of orders of Lenin when awarding the second and third medals was not provided. The Decree did not say anything about conferring the title for the 4th time, as well as about the possible number of awards for one person.
The numbering of medals for the first, second and third awards was separate. Since the construction of the grandiose Palace of Soviets in Moscow was not completed due to the war, the busts of Heroes three times were installed in the Kremlin.
MEDAL FOR MILITARY MERIT
Established by Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of October 17, 1938.
The Medal for Military Merit was awarded to:
. military personnel of the Soviet Army Marine, border and internal troops
. other citizens of the USSR,
. as well as persons who are not citizens of the USSR.
The medal was awarded to distinguished persons for:
. For skillful, enterprising and courageous actions in battle, which contributed to the successful completion of combat missions by a military unit, subdivision;
. For courage shown in the defense of the state border of the USSR;
. For excellent success in combat and political training, mastering new military equipment and maintaining high combat readiness of military units and their subunits, and other merits during active military service.
The medal "For Military Merit" is worn on the left side of the chest and, in the presence of other medals of the USSR, is located after the Ushakov medal.
As of January 1, 1995, 5,210,078 awards were made with the Medal for Military Merit.
MEDAL OF HONOR"
Diameter - 37 mm
Date of establishment: October 17, 1938
Number of awards: 4,000,000
State award of the USSR and Russian Federation. It was established on October 17, 1938 to reward the soldiers of the Red Army, the Navy and the border guard for personal courage and courage in battles with the enemies of the Soviet Union while protecting the inviolability of state borders or in the fight against saboteurs, spies and other enemies of the Soviet state. Among the first to be awarded this medal were border guards N. Gulyaev and F. Grigoriev, who detained a group of saboteurs near Lake Khasan. By Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Council of the Russian Federation of March 2, 1992 No. 2424-1, the medal was left in the system of awards of the Russian Federation. Established again by Decree of the President of the Russian Federation of March 2, 1994 No. 442.
The medal "For Courage" is awarded to military personnel, as well as employees of the internal affairs bodies of the Russian Federation and other citizens of the Russian Federation for personal courage and courage shown by:
. in battles to protect the Russian Federation and its state interests;
. when performing special tasks to ensure the state security of the Russian Federation;
. when protecting the state border of the Russian Federation;
. in the performance of military, service or civil duty, the protection of the constitutional rights of citizens in conditions associated with a risk to life.
The medal "For Courage" is worn on the left side of the chest and, in the presence of other medals of the Russian Federation, is located after the medal of the Order of Merit for the Fatherland, II degree.
MEDAL FOR THE DEFENSE OF LENINGRAD
Diameter - 32 mm
Material - brass
Number of awards: 1470000
Established by Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of December 22, 1942. The author of the medal project is the artist N. I. Moskalev.
The medal "For the Defense of Leningrad" was awarded to all participants in the defense of Leningrad:
. military personnel of units, formations and institutions of the Red Army, the Navy and the NKVD troops, who actually participated in the defense of the city;
. workers, employees and other persons from the civilian population who participated in the hostilities to defend the city, contributed to the defense of the city with their selfless work at enterprises, in institutions, participated in the construction of defensive structures, in air defense, in the protection of public utilities, in the fight against fires from enemy air raids, in the organization and maintenance of transport and communications, in the organization Catering, supply and cultural services for the population, in caring for the sick and wounded, in organizing child care and carrying out other measures for the defense of the city.
The medal "For the Defense of Leningrad" is worn on the left side of the chest and, in the presence of other medals of the USSR, is located after the medal "For Saving the Drowners".
Persons awarded the medal "For the Defense of Leningrad" have the right to be awarded the later established commemorative medal "In memory of the 250th anniversary of Leningrad."
In 1985, about 1,470,000 people were awarded the medal "For the Defense of Leningrad". Among them are 15,000 children and adolescents under the siege.
MEDAL FOR THE DEFENSE OF ODESSA
Diameter - 32 mm
Material - brass
Date of establishment: December 22, 1942
Number of awards: 30000
Established by Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of December 22, 1942. The author of the drawing of the medal is the artist N. I. Moskalev.
The medal "For the Defense of Odessa" was awarded to all participants in the defense of Odessa - servicemen of the Red Army, the Navy and the NKVD troops, as well as civilians who were directly involved in the defense. The period of defense of Odessa is considered August 10 - October 16, 1941.
The medal was presented on behalf of the PVS of the USSR on the basis of documents certifying the actual participation in the defense of Odessa, issued by unit commanders, heads of military medical institutions, the Odessa Regional and City Councils of Workers' Deputies.
The medal "For the Defense of Odessa" is worn on the left side of the chest and, in the presence of other medals of the USSR, is located after the medal "For the Defense of Moscow".
In 1985, about 30,000 people were awarded the medal "For the Defense of Odessa".
MEDAL "FOR THE DEFENSE OF SEVASTOPOL"
Diameter - 32 mm
Material - brass
Date of establishment: December 22, 1942
Number of awards: 52540
Established by Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of December 22, 1942. The author of the approved drawing of the medal is the artist N. I. Moskalev.
The medal "For the Defense of Sevastopol" was awarded to all participants in the defense of Sevastopol - servicemen of the Red Army, Navy and NKVD troops, as well as civilians who were directly involved in the defense. The defense of Sevastopol lasted 250 days, from October 30, 1941 to July 4, 1942.
The medal "For the Defense of Sevastopol" is worn on the left side of the chest and, in the presence of other medals of the USSR, is located after the medal "For the Defense of Odessa".
As of January 1, 1995, approximately 52,540 people have been awarded the medal "For the Defense of Sevastopol".
MEDAL FOR THE DEFENSE OF STALINGRAD
Diameter - 32 mm
Material - brass
Date of establishment: December 22, 1942
Number of awards: 759560
Established by Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of December 22, 1942. The author of the drawing of the medal is the artist N. I. Moskalev
The medal "For the Defense of Stalingrad" was awarded to all participants in the defense of Stalingrad - servicemen of the Red Army, Navy and NKVD troops, as well as civilians who were directly involved in the defense. The period of the defense of Stalingrad is considered July 12 - November 19, 1942.
The medal "For the Defense of Stalingrad" is worn on the left side of the chest and, in the presence of other medals of the USSR, is located after the medal "For the Defense of Sevastopol".
As of January 1, 1995, approximately 759,560 people have been awarded the medal "For the Defense of Stalingrad".
MEDAL FOR THE DEFENSE OF THE CAUCASUS
Diameter - 32 mm
Material - brass
Number of awards: 870,000
The medal "For the Defense of the Caucasus" was awarded to all participants in the defense of the Caucasus - the military personnel of the Red Army, the Navy and the NKVD troops, as well as civilians who were directly involved in the defense.
The medal "For the Defense of the Caucasus" is worn on the left side of the chest and, in the presence of other medals of the USSR, is located after the medal "For the Defense of Kyiv".
In 1985, about 870,000 people were awarded the medal "For the Defense of the Caucasus".
MEDAL FOR THE DEFENSE OF MOSCOW
Diameter - 32 mm
Material - brass
Date of establishment: May 1, 1944
Number of awards: 1,028,600
Established by Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of May 1, 1944. The author of the drawing of the medal is the artist N. I. Moskalev.
The medal "For the Defense of Moscow" was awarded to all participants in the defense of Moscow:
. all servicemen and civilian personnel of the Soviet Army and NKVD troops who participated in the defense of Moscow for at least one month during the period from October 19, 1941 to January 25, 1942;
. persons from the civilian population who were directly involved in the defense of Moscow for at least one month during the period from October 19, 1941 to January 25, 1942;
. military personnel of the Moscow air defense zone and air defense units, as well as civilians - the most active participants in the defense of Moscow from enemy air raids from July 22, 1941 to January 25, 1942;
. military personnel and civilians from the population of the city of Moscow and the Moscow region, who took an active part in the construction of defensive lines and structures of the defensive line of the Reserve Front, Mozhaisk, Podolsk lines and the Moscow bypass.
. partisans of the Moscow region and active participants in the defense of the hero city of Tula.
The medal "For the Defense of Moscow" is worn on the left side of the chest and, in the presence of other medals of the USSR, is located after the medal "For the Defense of Leningrad".
As of January 1, 1995, approximately 1,028,600 people have been awarded the medal "For the Defense of Moscow".
MEDAL "FOR THE DEFENSE OF THE SOVIET POLAR REGION"
Diameter - 32 mm
Material - brass
Date of establishment: December 5, 1944
Number of awards: 353 240
Established by Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of December 5, 1944. The author of the image of the medal is Lieutenant Colonel V. Alov with modifications by the artist A. I. Kuznetsov.
The medal "For the Defense of the Soviet Arctic" was awarded to all participants in the defense of the Arctic - the military personnel of the Red Army, the Navy and the NKVD troops, as well as civilians who were directly involved in the defense. The period of defense of the Soviet Arctic is considered June 22, 1941 - November 1944.
The medal "For the Defense of the Soviet Arctic" is worn on the left side of the chest and, in the presence of other medals of the USSR, is located after the medal "For the Defense of the Caucasus".
As of January 1, 1995, the medal "For the Defense of the Soviet Arctic" was awarded to approximately 353,240 people.
MEDAL "FOR THE DEFENSE OF KYIV"
Diameter - 32 mm
Material - brass
Date of establishment: June 21, 1961
Number of awards: 107540
Established by the Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of June 21, 1961. The author of the medal project is the artist V. N. Atlantov.
The medal "For the Defense of Kyiv" was awarded to all participants in the defense of Kyiv - servicemen of the Soviet Army and the troops of the former NKVD, as well as all workers who took part in the defense of Kyiv in the ranks of the people's militia, in the construction of defensive fortifications, who worked in factories and plants that served the needs of the front, members of the Kyiv underground and partisans who fought the enemy near Kyiv. The period of defense of Kyiv is considered July - September 1941.
The medal "For the Defense of Kyiv" is worn on the left side of the chest and, in the presence of other medals of the USSR, is located after the medal "For the Defense of Stalingrad".
As of January 1, 1995, approximately 107,540 people have been awarded the medal "For the Defense of Kyiv".
MEDAL FOR THE LIBERATION OF BELGRADE
Diameter - 32 mm
Material - brass
Number of awards: 70,000
Established by the Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of June 9, 1945. The design of the medal was created by the artist A. I. Kuznetsov.
The medal "For the Liberation of Belgrade" is awarded to servicemen of the Red Army, the Navy and the NKVD troops - direct participants in the heroic assault and liberation of Belgrade in the period September 29 - October 22, 1944, as well as organizers and leaders of military operations during the liberation of this city.
The medal "For the Liberation of Belgrade" is worn on the left side of the chest and, in the presence of other medals of the USSR, is located after the medal "For the Capture of Berlin".
The medal "For the Liberation of Belgrade" was awarded to about 70,000 people.
MEDAL FOR THE LIBERATION OF WARSAW
Diameter - 32 mm
Material - brass
Established: June 9, 1945
Number of awards: 701,700
Established by the Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of June 9, 1945. The author of the medal project is the artist Kuritsyna.
As of January 1, 1995, approximately 701,700 people have been awarded the medal "For the Liberation of Warsaw".
The medal "For the Liberation of Warsaw" is awarded to servicemen of the Red Army, the Navy and the NKVD troops - direct participants in the heroic assault and liberation of Warsaw in the period January 14-17, 1945, as well as organizers and leaders of military operations during the liberation of this city.
The medal is presented on behalf of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR on the basis of documents certifying actual participation in the liberation of Warsaw, issued by unit commanders and heads of military medical institutions.
Delivery is made:
. persons who are in the military units of the Red Army and the Navy - commanders of military units;
. persons who have retired from the army and navy - regional, city and district military commissars at the place of residence of the awarded.
The medal "For the Liberation of Warsaw" is worn on the left side of the chest and, in the presence of other medals of the USSR, is located after the medal "For the Liberation of Belgrade".
MEDAL FOR THE LIBERATION OF PRAGUE
Diameter - 32 mm
Material - brass
Established: June 9, 1945
Number of awards: 395,000
Established by the Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of June 9, 1945. The authors of the drawing of the medal are the artist A. I. Kuznetsov and the artist Skorzhinskaya.
The medal "For the Liberation of Prague" is awarded to servicemen of the Red Army, the Navy and the NKVD troops - direct participants in the heroic assault and liberation of Prague in the period May 3-9, 1945, as well as organizers and leaders of military operations during the liberation of this city.
The medal "For the Liberation of Prague" is worn on the left side of the chest and, in the presence of other medals of the USSR, is located after the medal "For the Liberation of Warsaw".
As of 1962, over 395,000 people were awarded the medal "For the Liberation of Prague".
MEDAL FOR THE CAPTURE OF BERLIN
Diameter - 32 mm
Material - brass
Established: June 9, 1945
Number of awards: 1,100,000
Established by the Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of June 9, 1945 in honor of the capture of Berlin during the Great Patriotic War.
According to the Regulations on the medal "For the Capture of Berlin", it was awarded to "military personnel The Soviet Army, the Navy and the NKVD troops are direct participants in the heroic assault and capture of Berlin, as well as the organizers and leaders of military operations in the capture of this city.
In total, more than 1.1 million people were awarded the medal "For the Capture of Berlin".
Medal "For the Capture of Berlin" - round, with a diameter of 32 mm, made of brass. On the front side of the medal in the center is the inscription "For the capture of Berlin". Along the lower edge of the medal is an image of an oak half wreath intertwined with a ribbon in the middle part. Above the inscription is a five-pointed asterisk. The medal is bordered on the obverse side. On the reverse side of the medal, the date of the capture of Berlin by Soviet troops is minted: “May 2, 1945”; below is a five-pointed asterisk. All inscriptions and images on the obverse and on the reverse side of the medal are convex. In the upper part of the medal there is an eyelet, which is connected by means of a ring to the metal pentagonal block, which serves to fasten the medal to clothing. The shoe is covered with red silk moiré ribbon 24 mm wide. In the middle of the ribbon are five lobal stripes - three black and two orange.
MEDAL FOR THE CAPTURE OF BUDAPEST
Diameter - 32 mm
Material - brass
Established: June 9, 1945
Number of awards: 362,050
The medal "For the Capture of Budapest" was awarded to servicemen of the Red Army, the Navy and the NKVD troops - direct participants in the heroic assault and capture of Budapest in the period December 20, 1944 - February 15, 1945, as well as organizers and leaders of military operations during the capture of this city.
The medal "For the Capture of Budapest" is worn on the left side of the chest and, in the presence of other medals of the USSR, is located after the medal "For the Victory over Japan".
As of January 1, 1995, approximately 362,050 people have been awarded the Medal for the Capture of Budapest.
MEDAL FOR THE CAPTURE OF VIENNA
Diameter - 32 mm
Material - brass
Established: June 9, 1945
Number of awards: 277 380
Established by the Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of June 9, 1945 in honor of the capture of Vienna during the Great Patriotic War.
The medal "For the Capture of Vienna" is awarded to servicemen of the Red Army, the Navy and the NKVD troops - direct participants in the assault and capture of Vienna in the period March 16 - April 13, 1945, as well as the organizers and leaders of military operations during the capture of this city.
The medal "For the Capture of Vienna" is worn on the left side of the chest and, in the presence of other medals of the USSR, is located after the medal "For the Capture of Koenigsberg".
As of January 1, 1995, approximately 277,380 people have been awarded the Medal for the Capture of Vienna.
MEDAL "FOR THE CAPTURE OF KONIGSBERG"
Diameter - 32 mm
Material - brass
Established: June 9, 1945
Number of awards: 760,000
Established by the Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of June 9, 1945. The author of the medal project is the artist A. I. Kuznetsov.
The medal "For the capture of Koenigsberg" is awarded to servicemen of the Red Army, the Navy and the NKVD troops - direct participants in the heroic assault and capture of Koenigsberg in the period January 23 - April 10, 1945, as well as organizers and leaders of military operations during the capture of this city.
The medal "For the Capture of Koenigsberg" is worn on the left side of the chest and, in the presence of other medals of the USSR, is located after the medal "For the Capture of Budapest".
In 1987, about 760,000 people were awarded the medal "For the Capture of Koenigsberg".
MEDAL "FOR VICTORY OVER GERMANY IN THE GREAT PATRIOTIC WAR 1941-1945"
Diameter - 32 mm
Material - brass
Established: June 9, 1945
Number of awards: 14,933,000
Medal "For the Victory over Germany in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945" established by the Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of May 9, 1945. The authors of the medal are the artists E. M. Romanov and I. K. Andrianov.
Medal "For the Victory over Germany in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945" were awarded:
. all military personnel and civilian employees who took direct part in the ranks of the Red Army, the Navy and the NKVD troops on the fronts of the Patriotic War or ensured victory by their work in military districts;
. all military personnel and civilian employees who served during the Great Patriotic War in the ranks of the active Red Army, Navy and NKVD troops, but who left them due to injury, illness and injury, as well as transferred by decision of state and party organizations to another work outside the army.
Medal "For the Victory over Germany in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945" worn on the left side of the chest and, in the presence of other medals of the USSR, is located after the medal "For the Defense of the Soviet Arctic".
As of January 1, 1995, the medal "For the Victory over Germany in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945." awarded approximately 14,933,000 people.
MEDAL FOR THE VICTORY OVER JAPAN
Diameter - 32 mm
Material - brass
Date of establishment: September 30, 1945
Number of awards: 1,800,000
Established by the Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of September 30, 1945. The author of the medal project is the artist Lukina M.L.
The Medal "For the Victory over Japan" is awarded to:
. all military personnel and civilian personnel of units and formations of the Red Army, the Navy and the NKVD troops who took a direct part in the hostilities against the Japanese imperialists as part of the troops of the 1st Far Eastern, 2nd Far Eastern and Trans-Baikal Fronts, the Pacific Fleet and the Amur river flotilla;
. military personnel of the central departments of the NPO, the NKVMF and the NKVD, who took part in supporting the combat operations of the Soviet troops in the Far East.
The medal "For the Victory over Japan" is worn on the left side of the chest and, in the presence of other medals of the USSR, is located after the anniversary medal "Forty Years of Victory in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945." Interestingly, Stalin looks to the right (towards Japan), while in the medal "For the Victory over Germany" he looks to the left (towards Germany).
The total number of those awarded the medal "For the victory over Japan" is about 1,800,000 people.
MEDAL FOR VALIANT LABOR IN THE GREAT PATRIOTIC WAR 1941-1945
Diameter - 32 mm
Material - copper
Date of establishment: June 6, 1945
Number of awards: 16,096,750
Established by the Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of June 6, 1945. The authors of the drawing of the medal are the artists I. K. Andrianov and E. M. Romanov.
Medal "For Valiant Labor in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945" are awarded:
. workers, engineering and technical personnel and employees of industry and transport;
. collective farmers and agricultural specialists;
. workers of science, technology, art and literature;
. workers of the Soviet, party, trade union and other public organizations - who ensured the victory of the Soviet Union over Germany in the Great Patriotic War with their valiant and selfless work.
Medal "For Valiant Labor in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945" worn on the left side of the chest and, in the presence of other medals of the USSR, is located after the medal "For the Liberation of Prague".
As of January 1, 1995, the medal "For Valiant Labor in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945." awarded approximately 16,096,750 people.
I degree
Diameter - 32 mm
Material - 1st degree - silver
Number of awards: 1st degree - 56,883
MEDAL "PARTISAN OF THE PATRIOTIC WAR"
II degree
Diameter - 32 mm
Material - Grade 2 - Brass
Date of establishment: February 2, 1943
Number of awards: 2nd degree - 70,992
Established by Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of February 2, 1943. The author of the drawing of the medal is the artist N. I. Moskalev, the drawing was taken from the unrealized project of the medal “25 Years of the Soviet Army”.
The medal "Partisan of the Patriotic War" was awarded to partisans, commanding staff partisan detachments and the organizers of the partisan movement for special merits in organizing the partisan movement, for courage, heroism and outstanding successes in the partisan struggle for the Soviet Motherland in the rear of the Nazi invaders.
The medal "Partisan of the Patriotic War" 1st and 2nd degree is awarded to partisans of the Patriotic War, the commanding staff of partisan detachments and the organizers of the partisan movement, who showed courage, steadfastness, courage in the partisan struggle for our Soviet Motherland in the rear against the Nazi invaders.
Awarding the medal "Partisan of the Patriotic War" 1st and 2nd degree is made by decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR.
The medal "Partisan of the Patriotic War" 1st degree is awarded to partisans, commanding staff of partisan detachments and organizers of the partisan movement for courage, heroism and outstanding success in the partisan struggle for our Soviet Motherland in the rear of the Nazi invaders.
The medal “Partisan of the Patriotic War”, 2nd class, is awarded to partisans, the commanding staff of partisan detachments and organizers of the partisan movement for personal military distinction in carrying out orders and tasks of the command, for active assistance in the partisan struggle against the Nazi invaders.
The highest degree of the medal is the 1st degree.
The medal "Partisan of the Patriotic War" is worn on the left side of the chest and, in the presence of other medals of the USSR, is located after the medal "For Labor Distinction" in order of seniority.
Until 1974, this medal was the only medal of the USSR that had 2 degrees. As of January 1, 1995, 56,883 people were awarded the medal "Partisan of the Patriotic War" of the 1st degree, 70,992 people of the 2nd degree.
MEDAL NAKHIMOV
Diameter - 36 mm
Material - bronze
Established: March 3, 1944
Number of awards: 14,000
The medal was designed by the architect M. A. Shepilevsky.
The Nakhimov medal was awarded to sailors and soldiers, foremen and sergeants, midshipmen and ensigns of the Navy and naval units of the border troops.
The Nakhimov medal was awarded to:
. for skillful, enterprising and courageous actions that contributed to the successful completion of the combat missions of ships and units in maritime theaters;
. for the courage shown in the defense of the state maritime border of the USSR;
. for dedication shown in the performance of military duty, or other merits during the passage of active military service in conditions involving a risk to life.
The Nakhimov medal is worn on the left side of the chest and, in the presence of other medals of the USSR, is located after the medal "For Military Merit".
In total, more than 13,000 awards with the Nakhimov medal were made.
USHAKOV'S MEDAL
Established by the Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of March 3, 1944.
The Ushakov Medal was awarded to sailors and soldiers, foremen and sergeants, midshipmen and warrant officers of the Navy and naval units of the border troops for courage and bravery shown in the defense of the socialist Fatherland in maritime theaters, both in wartime and in peacetime.
The Ushakov medal was awarded for personal courage and bravery shown by:
. in battles with the enemies of the socialist Fatherland in the maritime theaters;
. when protecting the state maritime border of the USSR;
. when performing combat missions of ships and units of the Navy and border troops;
. in the performance of military duty in conditions associated with a risk to life.
The Ushakov medal is worn on the left side of the chest and, in the presence of other USSR medals, is located after the medal "For Courage".
BADGE "GUARDS"
On May 21, 1943, for military units and formations awarded the title of guards, the badge "Guard" was established. The artist S. I. Dmitriev was instructed to draw a drawing of the future sign. As a result, a laconic and at the same time expressive project was adopted, which is a five-pointed star framed by a laurel wreath, above it is a red banner with the inscription "Guard". On the basis of the Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of June 11, 1943, this sign was also placed on the banners of armies and corps that received the title of guards. The difference was that on the banner of the Guards Army the sign was depicted in a wreath of oak branches, and on the banner of the Guards Corps - without a wreath.
In total, during the war, until May 9, 1945, the title of Guards was awarded to: 11 combined arms and 6 tank armies; horse-mechanized group; 40 rifle, 7 cavalry, 12 tank, 9 mechanized and 14 aviation corps; 117 rifle, 9 airborne, 17 cavalry, 6 artillery, 53 aviation and 6 anti-aircraft artillery divisions; 7 rocket artillery divisions; many dozens of brigades and regiments. In the Navy, there were 18 surface guard ships, 16 submarines, 13 divisions of combat boats, 2 air divisions, 1 brigade of marines and 1 naval railroad artillery brigade.
ORDER OF THE RED BANNER
Date of establishment September 16, 1918
First award on September 30, 1918
Last award 1991
Number of awards 581 300
Established to be awarded for special courage, dedication and courage shown in the defense of the socialist Fatherland. The Order of the Red Banner was also awarded to military units, warships, state and public organizations. Until the establishment of the Order of Lenin in 1930, the Order of the Red Banner remained the highest order of the Soviet Union.
It was established on September 16, 1918 during the Civil War by decree of the All-Russian Central Executive Committee. It was originally called the Order of the Red Banner. During the Civil War, similar orders were also established in other Soviet republics. On August 1, 1924, all the orders of the Soviet republics were transformed into the “Order of the Red Banner”, uniform for the entire USSR. The statute of the order was approved by the Resolution of the Presidium of the Central Executive Committee of the USSR of January 11, 1932 (on June 19, 1943 and December 16, 1947, this Resolution was amended and supplemented by Decrees of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR). The latest edition of the statute of the order was approved by the Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of March 28, 1980.
The Order of the Red Banner was awarded to the Komsomol, the newspaper Krasnaya Zvezda, the Baltic State Technical University Voenmekh, the cities of Leningrad (Petrograd), Kopeysk, Grozny, Tashkent, Volgograd (Tsaritsyn), Lugansk, Sevastopol.
ORDER OF THE RED STAR
Established: April 6, 1930
First award: V.K. Blucher
Last award: December 19, 1991
Number of awards: 3876740
Established by the Decree of the Presidium of the Central Executive Committee of the USSR of April 6, 1930. The statute of the order was established by the Decree of the Presidium of the Central Executive Committee of the USSR of May 5, 1930.
Subsequently, changes and clarifications were made to issues related to the awarding of the Order of the Red Star by the General Regulations on the Orders of the USSR (Decree of the Central Executive Committee and the Council of People's Commissars of the USSR of May 7, 1936), Decrees of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of June 19, 1943, February 26, 1946, October 15, 1947 and December 16, 1947. The Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of March 28, 1980 approved the Statute of the Order of the Red Star in a new edition.
THE ORDER OF LENIN
Dimensions: height: 38-45 mm
width: 38 mm
Material: gold, platinum
Established: April 6, 1930
First award: May 23, 1930
Last award: December 21, 1991
Number of awards: 431 418
The history of the order dates back to July 8, 1926, when the head of the Main Directorate of the Red Army V.N. Levichev proposed to issue a new award - the "Order of Ilyich" - to persons who already had four orders of the Red Banner. This award was supposed to be the highest combat insignia. However, since the Civil War in Russia had already ended, the draft of the new order was not accepted. At the same time, the Council of People's Commissars recognized the need to create the highest award of the Soviet Union, awarded not only for military merit.
At the beginning of 1930, work on the project of a new order, called the "Order of Lenin", was resumed. The artists of the Goznak factory in Moscow were given the task of creating a drawing of the order, the main image on the sign of which was to be a portrait of Vladimir Ilyich Lenin. From the many sketches, the work of the artist I. I. Dubasov was chosen, who took as the basis for the portrait a photograph of Lenin taken at the Second Congress of the Comintern in Moscow by photographer V. K. Bulla in July-August 1920. On it, Vladimir Ilyich is depicted in profile to the left of the viewer.
In the spring of 1930, the sketch of the order was handed over to the sculptors I. D. Shadr and P. I. Tayozhny to create a model. In the same year, the first signs of the Order of Lenin were made at the Goznak factory.
The order was established by a decree of the Presidium of the Central Executive Committee of the USSR on April 6, and its statute - on May 5, 1930. The statute of the order and its description were amended by the Decree of the Central Executive Committee of the USSR of September 27, 1934, the Decrees of the Presidium of the Supreme Council of June 19, 1943 and December 16, 1947.
By decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of March 28, 1980, the statute of the order was approved in its final version.
ORDER OF PATRIOTIC WAR
I degree
Date of establishment: May 20, 1942
First award: June 2, 1942
Number of awards: more than 9.1 million
ORDER OF PATRIOTIC WAR
II degree
On May 20, 1942, the Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR "On the establishment of the Order of the Patriotic War of I and II degrees" was signed, and with it the statute of the new order. For the first time in the history of the Soviet award system, specific feats were listed, for which an award was given to representatives of all major military branches.
The Order of the Patriotic War, I and II degrees, could be received by privates and commanding officers of the Red Army, the Navy, the NKVD troops and partisans who showed courage, stamina and courage in battles with the Nazis or contributed to the success of military operations of the Soviet troops by their actions. The right to this order was especially stipulated for civilians, who were awarded for their contribution to the common victory over the enemy.
The Order of the 1st degree is awarded to those who personally destroy 2 heavy or medium or 3 light enemy tanks, or as part of a gun crew - 3 heavy or medium tanks or 5 light ones. The Order of the II degree could be earned by one who personally destroys 1 heavy or medium tank or 2 light tanks, or as part of a gun crew 2 heavy or medium or 3 light tanks of the enemy.
ORDER OF ALEXANDER NEVSKY
Diameter - 50 mm
Material - silver
First award: November 5, 1942
Number of awards: 42 165
The competition for the drawing of the Order of Alexander Nevsky was won by the architect I. S. Telyatnikov. The artist used a frame from the film "Alexander Nevsky", which was released shortly before, starring the Soviet actor Nikolai Cherkasov. His profile in this role was reproduced in the drawing of the future order. A medallion with a portrait of Alexander Nevsky is in the center of a five-pointed red star, from which silver rays depart; along the edges - ancient Russian military attributes - crossed reeds, a sword, a bow and a quiver with arrows.
According to the statute, officers of the Red Army (from division commander to platoon commander) were awarded the order for their initiative in choosing the right moment for a sudden, bold and successful attack on the enemy and inflicting a major defeat on him with low losses for his troops; for the successful completion of a combat mission with the destruction of all or most of the superior enemy forces; for commanding an artillery, tank or aviation unit that inflicted heavy damage on the enemy.
In total, during the war years, the Order of Alexander Nevsky made more than 42 thousand awards to Soviet soldiers and about 70 foreign generals and officers. More than 1470 military units and formations received the right to attach this order to the battle banner.
ORDER OF KUTUZOV
I degree
Date of establishment: July 29, 1942
First award: January 28, 1943
Number of awards: I degree - 675
II degree - 3326
III degree - 3328
ORDER OF KUTUZOV
II degree
ORDER OF KUTUZOV
III degree
The Order of Kutuzov (project by the artist N. I. Moskalev) of the 1st degree could be received by the commander of the front, the army, his deputy or chief of staff for the good organization of the forced withdrawal of large formations with counterattacks on the enemy, the withdrawal of their troops to new lines with low losses; for the skillful organization of the operation of large formations to combat superior enemy forces and to keep their troops in constant readiness for a decisive offensive.
The statute is based on the fighting qualities that distinguished the activities of the great commander M. I. Kutuzov - skillful defense, exhausting the enemy and then moving on to a decisive counteroffensive.
One of the first orders of Kutuzov II degree was awarded to Major General K. S. Melnik, commander of the 58th Army, which defended the sector of the Caucasian Front from Mozdok to Malgobek. In difficult defensive battles, having exhausted the main forces of the enemy, the army of K. S. Melnik launched a counteroffensive and, having broken the enemy’s defense line, went out with battles to the Yeisk region.
In the regulation on the Order of Kutuzov, III degree, there is such a clause: the order can be given to an officer "for the skillful development of a battle plan that ensured a clear interaction of all types of weapons and its successful outcome."
ORDER OF Suvorov
I degree
Date of establishment: July 29, 1942
First award: January 28, 1943
Number of awards: 7267
ORDER OF Suvorov
II degree
ORDER OF Suvorov
III degree
In June 1942, a decision was made to establish orders named after the great Russian commanders - Suvorov, Kutuzov and Alexander Nevsky. These orders could be awarded to generals and officers of the Red Army for distinction in battles against the Nazis, for skillful leadership of military operations.
I degree of the Order of Suvorov was awarded to the commanders of the fronts and armies, their deputies, chiefs of staff, operational departments and branches of the fronts and armies for an excellently organized and conducted operation on the scale of the army or front, as a result of which the enemy was defeated or destroyed. One circumstance was specifically stipulated - the victory was to be won by smaller forces over a numerically superior enemy, according to the famous Suvorov rule: "The enemy is not beaten by numbers, but by skill."
The Order of Suvorov II degree could be awarded to the commander of a corps, division or brigade, as well as his deputy and chief of staff for organizing the defeat of a corps or division, for breaking through a modern enemy defensive line with its subsequent pursuit and destruction, as well as for organizing a battle in encirclement, exit from the environment while maintaining the combat capability of their units, their weapons and equipment. The badge of the II degree could also be received by the commander of an armored formation for a deep raid behind enemy lines, "as a result of which the enemy was dealt a sensitive blow, ensuring the successful completion of an army operation."
The Order of Suvorov III degree was intended to reward the commanders of regiments, battalions and companies for the skillful organization and implementation of a victorious battle with fewer forces than the enemy.
ORDER OF BOGDAN KHMELNYTSKY
I degree
Diameter: 55mm
Date of establishment: October 10, 1943
First award: October 28, 1943
Number of awards: 8451
ORDER OF BOGDAN KHMELNYTSKY
II degree
ORDER OF BOGDAN KHMELNYTSKY
III degree
In the summer of 1943, the Soviet army was preparing for the liberation of Soviet Ukraine. The idea of an award bearing the name of an outstanding Ukrainian statesman and commander belongs to the film director A.P. Dovzhenko and the poet M. Bazhan. Pashchenko's project was recognized as the best. The main material for the order of the 1st degree is gold, II and III are silver. The statute of the order was approved along with the Decree on the establishment of the order on October 10, 1943. The Order of Bogdan Khmelnitsky was awarded to soldiers and commanders of the Red Army, as well as partisans for distinction in battles during the liberation of Soviet land from fascist invaders.
The Order of Bogdan Khmelnitsky, I degree, could be received by the commander of a front or army for a successful operation, using skillful maneuver, as a result of which a city or region was liberated from the enemy, and the enemy was seriously defeated in manpower and equipment.
The Order of Bogdan Khmelnitsky II degree could be earned by an officer from a corps commander to a regiment commander for breaking through the enemy’s fortified zone, a successful raid behind enemy lines.
Along with officers and partisan commanders, the Order of Bogdan Khmelnitsky III degree could be received by sergeants, senior officers and ordinary soldiers of the Red Army and partisan detachments for the courage and resourcefulness shown in battles, which contributed to the fulfillment of the assigned combat mission.
In total, the Order of Bogdan Khmelnitsky produced about eight and a half thousand awards, including the first degree - 323, the second - about 2400 and the third - more than 5700. Over a thousand military units and formations received the order as a collective award.
ORDER OF GLORY
I degree
Diameter: 46mm
First award: November 28, 1943
Number of awards: more than 1 million
ORDER OF GLORY
II degree
ORDER OF GLORY
III degree
In October 1943, the project of N. I. Moskalev was approved by the Supreme Commander-in-Chief. At the same time, the color of the ribbon of the future Order of Glory proposed by the artist was approved - orange and black, repeating the colors of the most honorable military award in pre-revolutionary Russia - the Order of St. George.
The Order of Glory was established by the Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of November 8, 1943. It has three degrees, of which the highest I degree is gold, and II and III are silver (in the second degree the central medallion was gilded). This insignia could be issued for a personal feat on the battlefield, they were issued in a strict sequence - from the lowest degree to the highest.
The Order of Glory could be received by the one who first broke into the enemy’s location, who in battle saved the banner of his unit or captured the enemy’s, who, risking his life, saved the commander in battle, who shot down a Nazi aircraft from a personal weapon (rifle or machine gun), or destroyed up to 50 enemy soldiers, etc.
In total, about a million badges of the Order of Glory III degree were issued for distinction during the Great Patriotic War, more than 46 thousand - II degree and about 2600 - I degree.
ORDER "VICTORY"
Total weight - 78 g:
Material:
platinum - 47 g,
gold - 2 g,
silver - 19 g,
rubies - 25 carats,
diamonds - 16 carats.
Date of establishment: November 8, 1943
First award: April 10, 1944
Last award: September 9, 1945
(February 20, 1978)
Number of awards: 20 (19)
By decree of November 8, 1943, the order was established, its statute and description of the badge were approved. The statute said: “The Order of Victory, as the highest military order, is awarded to senior officers of the Red Army for the successful conduct of such military operations, on the scale of several or one front, as a result of which the situation is radically changing in favor of the Red Army.”
In total, during the years of World War II, 19 awards were made with the Order of Victory. Twice it was received by the Generalissimo of the Soviet Union I. V. Stalin, marshals G. K. Zhukov and A. M. Vasilevsky. Marshals I. S. Konev, K. K. Rokossovsky, R. Ya. Malinovsky, F. I. Tolbukhin, L. A. Govorov, S. K. Timoshenko and Army General A. I. Antonov. Marshal K. A. Meretskov was awarded for distinction in the war with Japan.
In addition, five foreign military leaders were awarded the Soviet military order for their contribution to the common victory over fascism. This is Supreme Commander People's Liberation Army of Yugoslavia Marshal Broz Tito, Supreme Commander of the Polish Army Marshal M. Rola-Zhymerski, Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Armed Forces in Western Europe General of the Army D. Eisenhower, Commander of the Army Group in Western Europe B. Montgomery and former king Romania Mihai.
ORDER OF NAKHIMOV
I degree
Established: March 3, 1944
First award: May 16, 1944
Number of awards: more than 500
ORDER OF NAKHIMOV
II degree
Artist B. M. Khomich.
It was established on March 3, 1944 by the Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR: "On the establishment of military orders: the Order of Ushakov I and II degrees and the Order of Nakhimov I and II degrees."
The Order of Nakhimov was issued “for outstanding success in the development, conduct and support of naval operations, as a result of which an offensive operation of the enemy was repelled or active operations of the fleet were ensured, significant damage was inflicted on the enemy and its main forces were saved; for a successful defensive operation, as a result of which the enemy was defeated; for a well-conducted antiamphibious operation that inflicted heavy losses on the enemy; for skillful actions in defending their bases and communications from the enemy, which led to the destruction of significant enemy forces and the disruption of his offensive operation.
ORDER OF USHAKOV
I degree
ORDER OF USHAKOV
II degree
Established in 1944. Artist B. M. Khomich.
The Order of Ushakov is the highest in relation to the Order of Nakhimov. The Order of Ushakov is divided into two degrees. I degree of the Order of Ushakov was made of platinum, II - of gold. For the Order of Ushakov, the colors of the Andreevsky naval flag of pre-revolutionary Russia were taken - white with blue. It was established on March 3, 1944 by the Decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR: "On the establishment of military orders: the Order of Ushakov I and II degrees and the Order of Nakhimov I and II degrees."
The Order of Ushakov could be issued for an active successful operation, as a result of which victory was achieved over a numerically superior enemy. It could have been a naval battle, as a result of which significant enemy forces were destroyed; a successful landing operation, which led to the destruction of enemy coastal bases and fortifications; bold actions on the sea lanes of the Nazis, as a result of which valuable warships and enemy transports. In total, the Order of Ushakov II degree was awarded 194 times. Among the units and ships of the Navy, 13 have this award on their banners.
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The first new combat award - the Order of the Patriotic War, began to be developed on April 10, 1942, and on May 20 it was already established. Initially, the order was planned to be called "For military valor", but then the name was changed. This, according to the plan of the founders, was to reflect the general idea of the people's struggle against the fascist invaders. For the first time in the history of the award system of the USSR, the order was issued in two degrees. The first degree differed from the second in that its central part was made of gold. It was awarded to servicemen of any branches of the armed forces, including fighters and commanders of partisan formations. At the same time, the military feat was concretized, i.e. military distinctions for which he was given were formulated in the statute of the order, of which there were more than 30 points. For example, the 2nd degree was awarded to those who personally destroy 1 medium (heavy) or 2 light tanks with artillery fire, and for the destruction more enemy equipment, let's say 2 medium or 3 light thanes, the artilleryman was already awarded the order of a higher, 1st degree.
It is noteworthy that for 35 years this order was the only award that could remain with the veteran's family after his death. Unlike him, all other Soviet insignia, the relatives of the recipient, after his death, were obliged to return to the state. This rule was abolished only in 1977.
During the years of the Second World War, about 350 thousand cases of awarding the Order of the Great Patriotic War of the 1st degree and about 926 thousand cases of the 2nd degree were made. Since 1947, such awards have been stopped and carried out only periodically. For example, in the 60s. rewarded foreigners who assisted Soviet soldiers who were captured, as well as partisans and underground fighters. In 1985, in honor of the celebration of the 40th anniversary of the Victory, this order was revived again.
In the same 1942, the first orders were established to reward commanders in honor of the great Russian commanders - Alexander Nevsky, Suvorov and Kutuzov. Hero commanders could receive them for the skillful leadership of a successful military operation and for saving the lives of subordinates during the execution of a mission. In March 1944, orders were added to them, designed to reward officers of the Navy - Ushakov and Nakhimov.
The continuation of the restoration of the traditions of the glorious Russian military history found in the establishment of the Order of Glory, which became an analogue of the St. George Cross of the main soldier's award. Wearing an award on a black and orange St. George ribbon covered with military glory (albeit for political reasons full name they did not return it, calling it the guards), the conciseness and expressiveness of the execution of the order, the division into degrees, the manufacture of the highest degree from pure gold - all this is taken from the main soldier's award in Russia - the St. George Cross.
The Order of Glory was established on November 8, 1943. They were awarded to sergeants and privates of the Red Army and junior lieutenants of aviation who showed heroic deeds in battle. The Order of Glory consists of three degrees, the highest of which is the 1st. The awarded are awarded the right to an extraordinary assignment of a military rank.
At the same time, the Order of Victory was established, the highest military award USSR, which was awarded to only 17 gentlemen. It was awarded to senior officers of the Red Army for the successful conduct of military operations on a frontal scale, as a result of which the situation radically changed in favor of the Soviet troops.
Medal of Honor
One of the first decrees of the Soviet power was "On the destruction of estates." This document of the All-Russian Central Executive Committee and the Council of People's Commissars, issued in early November 1917, in particular, abolished all the insignia that existed at that time. At the beginning of 1919, the Order Chapter also ceased to exist.
But the war that soon began against the interventionists and the White Guard troops showed the need to establish awards to encourage soldiers who distinguished themselves most in battles, who showed personal courage and outstanding abilities in battles with the enemies of the country. As a result, in the fall of 1918, the first Soviet order, the Red Banner, appeared. He became the first distinction in the system of awards of the RSFSR. After the advent of the USSR, the order became all-Union.
Pre-war medals
In the 30s, several more orders were established, as well as the title of "Hero of the Soviet Union". As a result, by the beginning of 1936, there were 5 orders and the golden star of the Hero in the country. The very first medal appeared only at the beginning of 1938. Its establishment was timed to coincide with the 20th anniversary of the KA, it was called. A little later, the following USSR medals.
The Decree of the Presidium of the Armed Forces of the Soviet Union on the basis of the award was signed on 01/24/1938. It encouraged military personnel belonging to the command staff of the spacecraft and the Navy,
served for at least 20 years. Awarded to individuals who civil war became the owners of the Order of the Red Banner.
A silver medal was minted. Until the end of 1940, it was awarded to more than 32 thousand people.
The second medal in the USSR, established on 10/17/1938, was "For Courage". She was celebrated by people for their personal courage in the performance of military duty. It was considered the highest medal in the system of awards of the Soviet Union.
A silver medal was minted. Before the start of the Second World War, approximately 26,000 people became its owners. From 1941 to 1945 over 4 million servicemen were awarded. Front-line soldiers valued "For Courage" more than other awards, since it could only be received for personal qualities.
There was a person who received a medal 6 times - S.V. Gretsov. 4 people became the owners of 5 medals, including one woman - guard sergeant V.S. Potapov.
The medal was established at the same time as "For Courage" - 10/17/1938. The award was presented to servicemen of the SA, Navy, border troops and explosives, as well as other persons who skillfully acted in battle, and other merits. From 1944 to 1957 The medal was awarded to persons who served for at least 10 years.
A silver medal was minted. Until the beginning of 1995, it was awarded to more than 5.2 million people. The reputation of this award was ambiguous, so many women did not advertise it.
At the end of the same year, 1938, the medal "For Labor Valor" was introduced, which was intended to reward people for selfless work. The award was presented to citizens of the Soviet Union, as well as to foreigners. In 1980, the Regulations were changed.
A silver medal was minted. The design was developed by the artist I.I. Dubasov. The first award ceremony took place on January 15, 1939. Until 1941, 8,000 people became owners of the badge. Until the beginning of 1995, more than 1.8 million people received the medal. All awards were carried out exclusively by Decrees of the Presidium of the USSR Armed Forces.
It was established simultaneously with the previous award - 12/27/1938. It was awarded for hard work. The award was presented to citizens of the Soviet Union, as well as to foreigners. It was considered the youngest among the medals that were awarded for labor merits. In 1980, the regulations on the medal were changed.
A silver medal was minted. The design was developed by the artist I.I. Dubasov. The first award took place on 01/15/1939. The award was received by 19 employees of the plant named after. Kalinin. In total, at the beginning of the war, more than 11 thousand people became owners of the medal. Until the beginning of 1995, more than 2.1 million people received the medal.
Establishment date - 08/01/1939. Awarded to people who received the title of Hero of the Soviet Union. At first, the award was also called the "Hero of the SS", but after changes in the Charter it became the "Gold Star". The design was developed by the artist I.I. Dubasov.
The medal was made in the form of a 5-pointed star. 950 gold was used for its minting. The first award took place on November 4, 1939. The award was presented to pilot A.V. Lyapidevsky. He became a hero of the SS 5 years earlier. Before the beginning of the Second World War, 626 people became the owners of the medal.
A total of 12,776 medals were awarded. 156 people received the medal 2 times, 3 times - 3. These are A. Pokryshkin, I. Kozhedub and S. Budyonny. L.I. became the cavalier of 4 medals. Brezhnev.
The medal, founded on May 22, 1940, was intended to reward people who received the title of Hero of Socialist Labor. The design was developed by the architect M.I. Merkanov. The medallion was made of gold.
A total of 20,605 medals were awarded. 205 people received it 2 times, 16 people received it 3 times. This medal was the last one founded in the pre-war period.
Medals during the Second World War
The war showed that the medals, which at that time were provided for in the country's award system, were not enough. Therefore, new USSR medals.
In December 1942, several medals appeared, which were awarded to participants in the heroic defense of cities. Among them was "For the Defense of Leningrad". It was awarded to people who participated in the defense of this city, both military and civilian. The design was developed by the artist N. Moskalev. The material from which the sign was minted was brass.
Before the end of the Second World War, about 600 thousand people received the award. In total, until 1985, it was awarded to 1.47 million people. Among them are 15,000 children who survived the blockade. A.A. became the first gentleman. Zhdanov.
It was also founded on 12/22/1942. It was intended to encourage military and civilian people who personally participated in the defense of Odessa from 08/05/1941 to 10/16/1941. The metal from which the signs were minted was stainless steel until 1943, and later - brass. The design was developed by the artist N. Moskalev.
In total, 30 thousand awards were made. Among them N.Ya. Gordienko, Ya.Ya. Gordienko, who fought in the partisan detachment.
It was founded on 12/22/1942. It was intended to encourage military and civilian people who personally participated in the defense of Sevastopol from 10/30/1941 to 07/04/1942. The badge was brass. The design was developed by the artist N. Moskalev. In total, 52.54 thousand people were noted.
It was founded on 12/22/1942. It was intended to encourage military and civilian people who personally participated in the defense of Stalingrad from 07/12/1942 to 11/19/1942. The badge was brass. The design was developed by the artist N. Moskalev.
A total of 759,560 individuals were marked. Medal No. 1 belonged to General M. Shumilov, who commanded the 64th Army.
At the beginning of 1943, another medal appeared, which was awarded to partisans, commanders of partisan detachments. Their organizers were also awarded. There were 2 degrees of sign. 1 st. minted from silver, 2 tbsp. - from brass.
In total, about 57 thousand awards of the 1st degree were carried out. and almost 71 thousand 2 tbsp. Not only citizens of our country, but also foreigners became the owners of the award. Badge No. 1 in the summer of 1943 was received by E.I. Osipenko.
On 03/03/1944, the Ushakov medal was established to reward privates and lower officers of the Navy. The design was developed by the architect M. Shepilevsky. The basis for the award was courage in defending the country during the war or in peacetime. The material for it was silver.
Appeared simultaneously with the previous award. It was awarded to privates and lower officers of the Navy. The design was developed by the architect M. Shepilevsky. The basis for the award was merit in the performance of combat missions. The medal was made of bronze. On the this moment 14 thousand people were awarded.
It was founded on 01.05.19424. It was intended to encourage military and civilians who personally participated in the defense from 07/01/1942 to 10/31/1943. The badge was brass. The design was developed by the artist N. Moskalev. In total, 870 thousand distinguished people were noted.
Appeared simultaneously with the previous one. It was intended to encourage military and civilian people who personally participated in the defense of Moscow from the Nazis from 10/19/1941 to 01/25/1942. The badge was brass. The design was developed by the artist N. Moskalev. In total, more than 1 million signs were awarded. The owner of medal No. 1 was I.V. Stalin.
This award was established in the middle of 1944. It was divided into two degrees. 1 st. was awarded to women who gave birth and raised 6 children, 2 tbsp. - 5. By the beginning of 1995, over 13 million women had been awarded medals. 1 st. was silver, 2 - bronze.
This award sign appeared on 12/05/1944. It was intended to encourage military and civilian people who personally participated in the defense of the Arctic from 06/22/1941 to 11/30/1944. The item was brass. More than 350 thousand people became its owners.
The establishment took place on a memorable day - 05/09/1945. The design was developed by 2 artists - E. Romanov and I. Andrianov. The military personnel of the spacecraft became its owners. Production material - brass. 14 million 933 thousand copies of the award were presented, it became the most massive one. All holders of the sign were further entitled to apply for awards issued for the 20th, 30th, 40th, 50th, 50th, 70th anniversary of the Victory.
This sign, intended for presentation to people who worked in the rear, was introduced on 06/06/1945. The design was developed by 2 artists - E. Romanov and I. Andrianov. Production material - copper. In total, over 16 million copies of the award were presented.
The award was made on 06/09/1945. Its owners were the military serving in the spacecraft. Navy and NKVD troops who personally participated in the hostilities during the capture of the capital of Germany. The design was developed by the artist A. Kuznetsov. Production material - brass. 1.1 million copies of the award were presented.
The date of foundation of the sign is the same - 06/09/1945. Its owners were the military serving in the spacecraft. The Navy and the troops of the NKVD, who personally participated in the hostilities during the capture of the capital of Hungary from 12/20/1944 to 02/15/1945. The design was developed by the artist A. Kuznetsov. Production material - brass. Approximately 360 thousand copies of the award were presented.
The date of establishment is the same - 06/09/1945. Its owners were the military serving in the spacecraft. The Navy and the troops of the NKVD, who personally participated in the hostilities during the capture of the capital of Austria from 03/16/1945 to 04/13/1945. The design was developed by the artist A. Kuznetsov. Production material - brass. Approximately 277 thousand copies of the award were presented.
Date of establishment - 06/09/1945. Its owners were the military serving in the spacecraft. Navy and NKVD troops who personally participated in the hostilities during the capture of Koenigsberg from 01/23/1945 to 04/10/1945. The design was developed by the artist A. Kuznetsov. Production material - brass. Approximately 760,000 copies of the award were presented.
Day of establishment - 06/09/1945. Its owners were the military serving in the spacecraft. Navy and NKVD troops who personally participated in the hostilities during the assault and capture of the capital of Yugoslavia from 09/29/1944 to 10/22/1944. The design was developed by the artist A. Kuznetsov. Production material - brass. Approximately 70,000 copies of the award were presented.
Date of establishment - 06/09/1945. The military personnel serving in the spacecraft became the owners. Navy and NKVD troops who personally participated in the hostilities during the assault and capture of the capital of Poland from 01/14/1945 to 01/17/1945. The design was developed by the artist A. Kuznetsov. Production material - brass. Approximately 700,000 copies of the award were presented.
Day of foundation - 06/09/1945. The military personnel serving in the spacecraft became the owners. Navy and NKVD troops who personally participated in the hostilities during the assault and capture of the city of Prague from 05/03/1945 to 05/09/1945. The design was developed by the artist A. Kuznetsov. Production material - brass. Approximately 395 thousand copies of the award were presented, among them 40,000 Czechs and Slovaks.
Date of establishment - 09/30/1945. The military personnel serving in the spacecraft became the owners. Navy and NKVD troops who personally participated in the hostilities against the Japanese army. The design was developed by the artist M. Lukina. Material - brass. Approximately 1.8 million copies of the award were given out. The holders of the badge were further entitled to apply for awards issued for the 20th, 30th, 40th, 50th, 50th, 70th anniversary of the Victory.
post-war period
The main task of the country after the end of the Second World War was the restoration of the destroyed economy. And the first post-war USSR medals were appropriate.
Date of appearance - 09/10/1947. The owners were people who had significant achievements in the revival of the Donbass coal industry. The design was developed by the artist I. Dubasov. Material - brass. More than 36 thousand copies of the award were presented.
Date of appearance - 09/20/1947 in memory of the anniversary of the capital. Applicants for the medal were broad sections of Muscovites who lived in the capital or its suburbs for at least 5 years. The design was developed by artists I. Dubasov and S. Tulchinsky. Production material - copper. Over 1.7 million copies were handed out.
Medal of the USSR "30 years of the Soviet Army and Navy"
Date of foundation - 02/22/1948 in honor of the 30th anniversary of the SA. The entire personnel of the SA and the Navy, who were in the service on the day of February 23, 1948, became applicants for the medal. The design was developed by the artist N. Moskalev. Material - brass. Over 3.7 million copies were handed out.
It was founded on May 18, 1948. The owners of the medal were people who had significant achievements in the restoration of the coal industry in the southern regions of the country. The design was developed by the artist I. Dubasov. Production material - brass. More than 68 thousand copies were handed over.
Date of appearance - 07/13/1950, in honor of the 30th anniversary of the SA. The owners of the medal were the military, serving in the border troops of various departments, as well as civilians. The design was developed by the artist P. Veremenko. Production material - silver. The position for the award has changed several times. More than 67 thousand copies were handed over.
Date of appearance - 11/01/1950. The owners of the medal were the personnel of the internal affairs bodies, as well as members of the people's squads, who took an active part in the protection of law and order. Until 1960, the sign was minted from silver, later from nickel silver. About 47 thousand copies of the medal were awarded.
Date of establishment - 20.10.1956. The design was developed by the artist N. Filippov. The owners of the medal were agricultural workers for their merits in the development of virgin lands in the Urals, Siberia, Kazakhstan, and the North Caucasus. The applicant had to work on the development of virgin lands for at least 2 years. More than 1.3 million copies of the medal were issued.
Establishment date - 02/16/1957. The design was developed by the artist A. Shebalkov. Rescue service personnel, as well as other citizens of the country and foreigners for courage in rescuing people on the water, became the owners of the medal. Production material - brass. About 24 thousand copies of the medal were issued.
Date of establishment - 05/16/1957. The design was developed by the artist N. Sokolov. This commemorative sign was awarded to Leningraders for their significant contribution to the revival of the city. Condition - people had to live in Leningrad or its suburbs for at least 5 years. Approximately 1.5 million copies of the medal were issued.
The award was founded on 10/31/1957. The owners of the medal were firefighters, members of fire brigades, as well as other citizens of the country and foreigners for courage in fire fighting, saving people from fire. First, the sign was minted from silver, then from nickel silver. About 32.7 thousand copies of the medal were issued.
Date of foundation of the award badge - 12/18/1957. The establishment took place in honor of the 40th anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Soviet Union. The design was developed by the artist V. Gogolin. All personnel of the Armed Forces, who were in service on the day of February 23, 1958, became applicants for the medal. Material - brass. 820 thousand copies were handed over.
Date of establishment - 06/21/1961. The owners were the military, serving in the USSR Armed Forces, as well as militias, partisans, underground fighters who personally participated in the hostilities during the defense of Kyiv from July to September 1941. The design was developed by the artist V. Atlantov. Material - brass. Approximately 107.5 thousand copies of the award were presented.
Medal of the USSR "20 years of Victory in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945"
It was founded on 05/07/1965 in honor of a significant date - 20 years since the Victory Day. The design was developed by V. Ermakov and Yu. Lukyanov. All owners of the sign "For the victory over Germany in the Second World War 1941-1945" were entitled to receive it. Material - brass. Approximately 16.4 million copies of the award were presented.
Date of foundation - 11/20/1967. The introduction of the award is timed to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the appearance of the police in the country. It was awarded to persons who are members of the militia, who have good characteristics and who, on the day of November 21, 1967, are in the service. People who were transferred to the reserve, who served in the police for a 25-year term, were also encouraged. Material - copper-nickel alloy. Almost 410 thousand copies of the award were presented.
The sign appeared a little later, on December 26, 1967. The introduction of the award was timed to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the formation of the Armed Forces. It was handed over to persons included in the personnel of the Armed Forces, on the day of February 23, 1968, in the service, to some other people. Made from brass. More than 9.5 million copies of the award were presented.
The issue of this award took place on the eve of the celebration of the centennial anniversary of V.I. Lenina, 11/05/1969. The design was developed by the artists N. Sokolov and A. Kozlov. There were 2 variants of the sign:
- For valiant work.
- For military prowess.
The owners of the sign were people for excellent performance in work, persons serving in the Armed Forces, and some others. Made from brass. More than 11 million copies of the award were presented.
It was introduced on 01/18/1974. The design was developed by the artist S. Pomansky. The medal was awarded to people for many years of conscientious work in various industries. The product is made of tompak. Over 39 million workers were awarded this badge.
The award badge was founded on October 28, 1974. The design was developed by the artist A. Zhuk. The military personnel of the Armed Forces with good political training, who distinguished themselves in exercises or in the course of service, became candidates for the award. There were 2 degrees of the award. 1 st. was brass, 2 tbsp. cupronickel. 20 thousand copies of 1 Art. and 120 thousand 2 tbsp.
Medal of the USSR "30 years of Victory in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945"
The award badge was founded on April 25, 1975. The design was developed by the artists V. Ermakov, V. Zaitsev, G. Miroshnikov. Established in honor of the 30th anniversary of the Victory. All owners of the sign "For the Victory over Germany in the Second World War 1941-1945", as well as some other awards, were entitled to receive it. Material - brass. Over 14.2 million copies of the award were presented.
Date of foundation - 05/20/1976. The design was developed by the artist R. Pylypiv. Awarded to servicemen of the USSR Armed Forces who served for at least 25 years without penalty. Material - tompak. Approximately 800 thousand copies of the award were issued.
The issue of this sign took place on 08.10.1976. Active builders of several railway lines were candidates for the award. Among them are BAM, railway line BAM - Tynda - Berkakit, and other facilities. The medal was awarded most often to workers, engineering and technical personnel who had worked for at least 3 years. Sign made of brass. More than 170 thousand copies of the award were presented.
The medal was introduced on September 30, 1977. The design was developed by the artist Y. Lukyanov. The medal was awarded to agricultural workers of the Non-Chernozem zone of the RSFSR. To receive the award, they had to work there for at least 3 years. Minted from tompak. The number of those awarded is approximately 25 thousand people.
Medal of the USSR "60 years of the Armed Forces of the USSR"
The sign appeared on January 28, 1978. The introduction of the award is timed to coincide with the 60th anniversary of the formation of the Armed Forces. The design was developed by the artist L. Pipetko. It was handed over to persons included in the personnel of the Armed Forces, on the day of February 23, 1978, in the service, to some other people. Made from brass. More than 10.7 million copies of the award were presented.
Medal of the USSR "For the development of mineral resources and the development of the oil and gas complex of Western Siberia"
The badge was issued on July 28, 1978. People who actively participated in the development of the oil and gas industry in the West Siberian regions became candidates for it. The medal was awarded to workers, employees who worked in this region for at least 3 years. Sign made of brass.
Medal of the USSR "For Strengthening the Combat Commonwealth"
It was established a year later - on May 26, 1979. It was intended to encourage military personnel, employees of state security agencies, the Department of Internal Affairs, as well as citizens of countries that are members of the Warsaw Pact. The foundation is a contribution to strengthening the combat commonwealth. Made from tompak. 20 thousand medals were issued.
USSR medal "In memory of the 1500th anniversary of Kyiv"
Date of appearance - 05/10/1982 Design belongs to the artist E. Kud. This sign appeared in honor of the 150th anniversary of the capital of Ukraine. They were awarded to people who worked in a variety of industries, who lived in Kyiv or Kyiv suburbs for at least a decade. The award was also given to persons who personally participated in the defense. Minted from brass. Approximately 780 thousand copies were issued.
Medal of the USSR "Forty Years of Victory in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945"
The award badge was founded on April 12, 1985. The design was developed by artists V. Ermakov and A. Miroshnikov. Established in honor of the 40th anniversary of the Victory. All participants in the battles during the Second World War, other persons, holders of the badge "For the victory over Germany in the Second World War 1941-1945" were entitled to receive a medal. Made from brass. Over 11.2 million copies of the award were presented.
Medal of the USSR "70 years of the Armed Forces of the USSR"
The last of the medals of the Soviet Union, was founded on January 28, 1988. The institution was associated with 70 years since the formation of the Armed Forces. The design was developed by the artist A. Zhuk. It was handed over to persons included in the personnel of the Armed Forces, on the day of February 23, 1988, in the service, to some other people. Made from brass. More than 9.8 million copies of the award were presented.
Medals of the USSR - a catalog of medals of the Great Patriotic War of the Soviet Union with photographs, descriptions, the history of their establishment and awards, prices.
Leave only WWII medals
After the revolution of 1917, and the formation of a new state, it was decided to abandon the system of awards of tsarist Russia, so that all combat medals of the USSR were created from scratch.
Since 1924, promotion for special merits has been made by the only award established in the country - the Order of the Red Banner of War. By 1937, more than 32 thousand people received it, and this led to a depreciation of the award. In order to keep the value of the order at an appropriate level, it was decided to create junior awards - medals of the USSR.
Paragraph 9 of Article 121 of the Constitution of the USSR states that the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR: “establishes orders and medals; establishes honorary titles; awards orders and medals; assigns honorary titles; Thus, orders and medals established by individual republics, departments and divisions are not state awards of the USSR.
The first medal of the armed forces of the USSR in 1938 was the anniversary medal of the XX years of the Red Army, and ten months later the first military medals of the Soviet Union were established - "For Courage" and "For Military Merit". Both of them became exclusively military, the first of them was awarded directly for courageous actions in battle, the second can be received collectively for a number of less significant actions, as well as for success in military and political training. A month later, in December 1938, by analogy with them, labor medals of the USSR were established - "For labor valor" and "For labor distinction", designed to encourage people who have accomplished labor feats.
The last awards established in the pre-war period were special insignia for citizens awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union, this is the Gold Star medal for the military and the Hammer and Sickle medal for civilians.
Medals of the Great Patriotic War of the USSR
With the German attack on the USSR in June 1941, a period of heavy battles began, feats and other heroic deeds were committed en masse, and it became necessary to expand the award system.
The initial period of the Great Patriotic War was characterized by a number of heroic defensive battles. To celebrate all the participants in those events, in December 1942, Soviet medals were established for the defense of Odessa, Sevastopol, Leningrad and Stalingrad. By that time, the first two cities, after a heroic defense, were abandoned by order of the headquarters, battles continued for the second two.
By February 1943, the enemy was stopped, and partisan movement in the occupied territories of the USSR, operating in the rear and undermining communications and military depots of the enemy. In 1943, more than a million Soviet citizens took part in the partisan movement, and to mark their contribution to the victory, a medal was created for the Partisan of the Patriotic War.
By the summer of 1943, there were already 15 military awards in the Soviet award system, which forced them to change the rules for wearing them. Since the summer of 1943, all round-shaped awards were worn on the left side of the chest, in addition, a special insignia "Golden Star" and "Hammer and Sickle" was also worn on the left side of the chest, and instead of medals, they were allowed to wear award ribbons on rectangular strips.
After the victory in the Great Patriotic War, a number of new awards were established, they were Soviet medals for the liberation of European capitals: Belgrade, Prague, Warsaw. WWII medals also appeared for the capture of the strongholds of Nazi Germany: Vienna, Koenigsberg, Budapest, Berlin, in addition to them, special commemorative medals of the USSR were created: "For the victory over Germany in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945." and "For victory over Japan".
After the end of the Second World War, the question arose of restoring the destroyed economic and industrial potential Soviet Union. Millions of people took part in large-scale construction projects, and commemorative signs were created for participating in these events, such as medals for the Restoration of ferrous metallurgy enterprises, the mines of Donbass, and the construction of BAM.
Later, the award system of the USSR was expanded by establishing Soviet medals in honor of the anniversaries of the country's largest cities, the 800th anniversary of Moscow, the 250th anniversary of Leningrad and the 1500th anniversary of Kyiv.
In 1979, the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the Soviet Union decided to put things in order in the award system, and approved the "General Regulations on Orders, Medals and Honorary Titles of the USSR." According to this document, all medals of the USSR were collected in eight groups:
- Medals - signs of special distinction;
- Medals for rewarding for labor merits;
- Medals for awarding for merits in the defense of the socialist Fatherland and other military merits;
- Medals for awarding for merits in solving the most important national economic problems of the USSR;
- Medals for awarding mothers for having many children and raising children;
- Medals for awarding merit in the performance of civil and official duty;
- Medals for awarding merit and distinction during the Great Patriotic War, in defense, capture and liberation of cities and territories;
- Medals for awarding in connection with the most important anniversaries in the history of the Soviet people.
On our website, we have created a catalog of USSR medals with prices, their descriptions, photographs, the history of the establishment and awards. The indicated cost of USSR medals is approximate, and to a large extent the price may fluctuate depending on the condition, availability of documents and the fame of the recipient.