Suvorov III,2210,Commander,2nd Machine-Gun Company,1285th Rifle Regiment

[W. C. Stump]

I guess everyone loves a great heroic war story and when you deal with the Soviet medals you can sometimes get a great story by researching the recipient and his awards. In the case of my favorite award a great story of heroic action in the face of almost certain odds of not surviving the mission comes with the award.

On January 16, 1945, a lowly Sr. Lieutenant by the name of Mikhail M. Sorokin was a commander of the 2nd Machine-Gun Company of the 1285th Rifle regiment, 60th Sevsk Rifle Division attached to the 47th Army. He has served in the Soviet Army since 1941, was wounded four times and had won the Order of Red Banner and the Order of the Red Star by the time the action took place that earned him the Order or Suvorov, 3rd Class. The citation and records state that Lt. Sorokin "displayed bravery, resoluteness and skills during the crossing of the Vistula River near the village of Novy Dvur, Poland". It seems that Lt. Sorokin, along with two other machine gun companies sent across the Vistula River to probe the enemy strength prior to a major offensive by the 47th Army. All who volunteered were told that the mission was vital, but the chances of surviving were slim to none.

The citation further reads, While under heavy enemy artillery and machine-gun fire, despite mortal danger, his company made a daring dash over the water obstacle. During the following day the enemy launched four counter attacks against his infantry position. Comrade Sorikin's company pounded the enemy with intense machine-gun fire, inflicting heavy loses in manpower. The company held the occupied position and developed further offensive, thus accomplishing the important task given to it by the command." As a result of his heroic action, Lt. Sorokin was awarded the Order of Suvorov, 3rd Class and only held the rank of Senior Lieutenant. This award was designated to be awarded only to Regiment, Battalion and Company Commanders. Lt. Sorokin was the only officer of his rank to ever receive this order during the Patriotic War.

Order of Suvorov 3rd Class.