Here is a document I found within a pile of documents today. Unlike most other documents in my collection this isn't on poor quality paper but something more like very heavy grease-proof paper or light parchment. The 137th Separate Regiment of Naval Infantry were part of the 1st Novorossijsk operation of 19th August - 26th September 1942 with the Soviet defenders in a dire situation. The ink quality is poor (and noticeably hand written) and I have had to play with this scanned image considerably to encourage the text out. Apart from this referring to a Senior Lt. Vladimir Grigor'evich Litvinov on the 24th September 1942.
I believe I've found him (the only person by the same name on "the site" that has the same rank and is also the only person by the same name in the Black Sea Fleet Naval Infantry).
A defender of Sevastopol, wounded twice during the action.
"Naval" blood runs through my veins for 6 generations (traceable) on both sides so I do have a very soft spot for any awards to naval personnel. I have spent months and months on water (as did my great uncle who was seen to be a bit of a land lover - http://soviet-awards.com/forum/soviet-mi...post251317) but I have always been an Army man. I don't know why (other than obvious) but that is how it is. That being said I have never been seasick (yes I have been in some poor maritime situations).
As a full blooded 21st century citizen I feel no bias against any service - hopefully everyone does their bit towards the greater good.
As for a more common sight, I suppose the Soviet Navy was tiny in comparison to the land forces and there were situations where the Black Sea Fleet (for example) lost so many that their force was far smaller and then there were orders from Stalin to ensure there were minimal losses.
But I will be presenting the tale of a Commissar on the Red Crimea and Royal Sovereign (Or Krasnyj Krim and Arhangelsk if you are Soviet) later.
