Russia WWII Order of the Red Star To a Navy Officer Complete With Research

Awarded to Senior Lieutenant Simanovsky Viktor Jakovlevich with. Born in 1910, Nationality Jew (according to the papers!). In Red Army from 1924, military rank Senior Lieutenant. Divisional Miner Volga Military Flotilla.

The Order of the Red Star was given to Red Army and Navy personnel for exceptional service in the cause of the defence of the Soviet Union in both war and peace. Also awarded for 15 years of service prior to the creation of the long service awards.

This variety (pjatka) was produced at the Moscow “Mint” in 1942-1943. The word “COIN” is rounded up in a hollow arc. Fot this kind of order is the minimum known number is 45211, the maximum is 292707.

The Order is made of pure silver (the silver weight is about 30g) with a Deep Red enamel work. The maker mark is located above, and the serial number underneath the screw post. The serial number reads: 196887. The order is in very good condition with a deep red enamel which is still intact. Overall light signs of age and use.

This is what we find in the Russian military archives about this order:

“During the period of the division’s operations, senior lieutenant Simanovsky directly supervised the minesweeping of all minesweepers. Personally, he was engaged in trawling, he trained personnel how to properly conduct trawling. He took an active part in the production of mine reconnaissance . At depths not allowing trawling, senior lieutenant  Simanovsky himself carried out bombing. He skillfully used minesweepers newly arrived at the division. Senior lieutenant  Simanovsky proved himself to be a brave and strong-willed commander by conduct on combat trawling. Simanovsky proved himself to be a brave and strong-willed commander. With the personal participation of senior lieutenant Simanovsky, three enemy mines were blown up. Senior lieutenant Simanovsky deserves to be awarded the Order of the Red Star.”

Rare and desirable Red Star awarded to a “JEW” serving in the Red Fleet!!