ORDER

OF THE SUPREME COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF

The 2nd Guards Cavalry Corps of Major-General Kryukov, in the fighting during the forcing of the River Desna from September 11 to 15, 1943, displayed exemplary combat proficiency, steadfastness, and ability to manoeuvre.

The units of the corps, breaking through into the enemy's rear, forced the River Desna, captured a bridgehead on the western bank of that river, and held it for four days until the approach of our infantry, repelling repeated counter-attacks by large German units supported by tanks and aircraft.

For the bold and resolute actions during the forcing of the River Desna, the 2nd Guards Cavalry Corps shall be proposed for the award of the Order of the Red Banner.

The 20th Red Banner and Order of Lenin Cavalry Division, forming part of the aforementioned Cavalry Corps, shall be reorganized into the 17th Guards Red Banner and Order of Lenin Cavalry Division. The commander of the division is Major-General Kursakov Pavel Trofimovich. The reorganized Guards division shall be presented with a Guards Banner.

For the successful forcing of the River Desna, the corps commander, as well as the commanders of distinguished formations and units, shall be proposed for the award of the Order of Suvorov.

Supreme Commander-in-Chief

Marshal of the Soviet Union I. STALIN

September 18, 1943 [No. 16]