Awarded to Captain Nikolay Ivanovich Karelskij (Николай Иванович Карельский)
For successfully completing a combat mission to cross the Bolshoi Sund strait [Estonia]. Despite challenging conditions, he efficiently organized his troops and pontoon materiel, ensuring readiness and effective operation. Despite stormy seas, the pontoons remained operational, facilitating the transportation of troops and machinery to the island Muhu. His personal supervision and bravery inspired his men, contributing to the defeat of Fascist forces and the seizure of the island
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Made of solid silver and enamels. Measures 49.78 mm in height, 48.23 mm in width and it weighs 37.8 grams without its screwplate. The mint mark Monetni Dvor is located directly underneath the screw. The serial number is engraved at the usual 5 o'clock position.
In excellent, far above average condition with all details still visible and crisp. The raised parts on its obverse show light wear and few contact marks only. A fair amount of the original gold plating is still present although some has worn off. The enamels are well preserved and shows some small dings and scratches only. Its screw has not been shortened and the order comes with its time period silver screwplate.
Please note the beautiful semi-mirror reverse of the order!
Brief, concrete description of his feat of arms or achievements:
The 1st battalion received a combat mission for forced crossing of the Bolshoi Sund strait (Suur Strait). Captain KARELSKIJ conducted extensive organisational work among his troops repeating for crossing of 8km of open waters subject to autumn winds. He also excellently prepared the pontoon materiel for naval operations on uneasy sea waters.
All the relevant pontoon materiel was brought to combat readiness ahead the scheduled time and has been woking impeccably already for several days since 29.09.1944, despite stormy seas. Designated number of pontoon-ferries has been constantly and efficiently operating according to the initial combat orders. The units personnel performs bravely and courageously in the missions.
Battalion commander Captain KARELSKIJ personally exercised supervision of the operations being present on the docks during embarkment as well as disembarkment on the island Muhu. Exhibiting courage and bravery, Captain KARELSKIJ led by example and inspired his men for combat feats, which ensured the troops and machines transportation to the island Muhu was performed in time, despite sever naval conditions. This effort contributed to defeat of the Fascist forces and seizure of the island Muhu.