Order of the Day, January 12, 1944

Issued by Marshal Stalin and addressed to Army General Vatutin Yesterday, January 11, troops of the 1st Ukrainian front, having forced the river Sluch, captured by storm the town of Sarny, a large railway junction and an important strong point in the German defences in the Polessye direction. In the fighting for the town of Sarny, distinction was won by troops commanded by Lieut.-General Pukhov and Maj. General Ivanov, and artillerymen commanded by Col. Mikhailov.

To commemorate the victory, units and formations which distinguished themselves in the fighting for the liberation of the town of Sarny will bear the name of Sarny, and are recommended for awards.

To-day, January 12, at 20,00 hours (Moscow time) the capital of our Motherland, Moscow, in the name of the Motherland, will salute with 12 artillery salvoes, from 124 guns our gallant troops which took part in the fighting for the liberation of Sarny.

For the excellent military operations I express my thanks to all the troops under your command which took part in the fighting for the liberation of the town of Sarny. Eternal glory to the heroes who fell in the struggle for the freedom and independence of our Motherland! Death to the German invaders!

J. V. Stalin

Marshal of the Soviet Union

Supreme Commander-in-Chief