Sassuntsi-Davit Tank Regiment facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Sassuntsi-Davit Tank Regiment |
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Tankers and mechanized infantry from the Sassuntsi-Davit regiment stand next to their T-34/85 tanks. The name of the regiment can be seen inscribed on the turret of the tanks in the Armenian script.
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| Active | January, 1943–1945 |
| Country | Soviet Union |
| Allegiance | Soviet Union |
| Branch | Tank |
| Type | Tank regiment |
| Role | Tactical attack |
| Size | ca. 5-7,000 men |
| Garrison/HQ | Soviet Socialist Republic of Armenia |
| Engagements | Belorussian Offensive, Battle of the Baltic (1944) |
| Decorations | Order of the Red Banner (July 23, 1944), Red Army Guard (1945), Order of the Red Star |
The Sassuntsi-Davit Tank Regiment (Armenian: Սասունցի Դավիթ տանկային շարասյուն) was a special tank unit in the Soviet Union during World War II. It was named after a famous Armenian hero, David of Sassoun. This regiment was known for having many soldiers of Armenian background. While most of the soldiers were Armenian, other groups like Azeris also joined. They often helped with things like supplies and other support roles, rather than direct fighting.
Contents
What Was the Sassuntsi-Davit Tank Regiment?
The Sassuntsi-Davit Tank Regiment was a military unit made up of tanks and their crews. It was formed in January 1943, during the middle of World War II. Its main job was to attack enemy forces and help other soldiers move forward.
How Was the Regiment Formed?
This tank regiment was created with money and gifts from people living in the Armenian Soviet Republic. This shows how much people wanted to help win the war. The regiment was first called the 119th Separate Rifle Tank (Mixed) Regiment. Later, it got its more famous name, Sassuntsi-Davit.
Where Did They Fight?
The Sassuntsi-Davit Tank Regiment took part in some very important battles during World War II. They fought in places like the Belorussian Offensive and the Battle of the Baltic (1944). These were big operations where the Soviet army pushed back against the enemy.
Important Awards and Honors
The regiment earned several high honors for its bravery and success in battle.
- In July 1944, they received the Order of the Red Banner. This was a very important award for military units.
- In 1945, they were given the title of Red Army Guard. This special title was given to units that showed outstanding courage and skill.
- They also received the Order of the Red Star.
These awards showed how well the Sassuntsi-Davit Tank Regiment fought and how much they helped the Soviet Union win the war. The regiment was a symbol of courage and dedication for many Armenians during this difficult time.
Images for kids
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Soviet nurse Zoya Grezlova tends to the aid of Lieutenant Stepanov, commander of Tank 40 (seen in the background) of the regiment in July 1944.
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The tanks of the regiment lined up in a ceremonial procession column in June 1944. Tanks 4 and 6 in the column are identified with mine flail devices. The inscription on the turrets, written in Russian, read "David of Sassun."
