Order of the Day, September 18, 1943

Issued by Marshal Stalin

The Second Guards Cavalry Corps under Major-General Kryukov, in, the battle for the forcing of the River Desna from September 11 to 15, 1943, displayed examples of military skill, staunchness and ability to manoeuvre. Units of the corps, breaking through to the rear of the enemy, forced the River Desna, captured a place-d'armes on the western bank of the river and held it for four days, until the arrival of our infantry, repulsing many counter-attacks launched by large German forces supported by tanks and aircraft.

For daring and resolute operations in forcing the River Desna, the 2nd Guards Cavalry Corps is recommended for the award of the Order of the Red Banner.

The 20th Cavalry Division, which holds the Red Banner and the Order of Lenin, and which forms part of this Cavalry Corps, will be reorganized as the 17th Guards Cavalry Division, holding the Red Banner and the Order of Lenin. The commander of the Division is Major-General Kursakov. The new Guards Division will be presented with a Guards Banner.

For the successful forcing of the River Desna, the commander of the corps, as well as the commanders of formations and units which distinguished themselves, will be recommended for the award of the Order of Suvarov. J. V. Stalin

Supreme Commander-in-Chief

Marshal of the Soviet Union