Suchan Valley Campaign facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Suchan Valley Campaign
Part of the Allied intervention in the Russian Civil War
Sergey Lazo, commander of the Red Partisan squads defending the region during the American offensive.
Date July–August, 1919 Location Suchan, Primorye, Russia Result American victory
Belligerents
United States	Russia (Bolshevik)
Commanders and leaders
Robert L. Eichelberger William S. Graves	Sergey Lazo
Strength
3,520 USS Albany USS New Orleans	4,000-6,000
Casualties and losses
22 killed 33 wounded	500 killed

The Suchan Valley Campaign was an important military operation that happened in Russia during the Russian Civil War. It took place in a mining area called Suchan Valley, which is now the city of Partizansk. American soldiers helped clear out and take control of this region, which was a tough place to fight because of the weather. They fought against a group called the Bolsheviks and won, causing many losses for the Bolsheviks.

What Was the Suchan Valley Campaign?

The Suchan Valley Campaign was a military effort by the United States in Russia. It happened in July and August of 1919. The goal was to take control of the important coal mines in the Suchan Valley. These mines were needed for fuel and resources.

Why Did It Happen?

The campaign was part of a bigger event called the Allied intervention in the Russian Civil War. After the Battle of Romanovka in June, the Suchan mines were cut off. A group called the Bolsheviks controlled these mines. The Americans needed the mines to do their job in the region. So, they launched a big attack to clear out the area.

The Battle for Control

The American forces planned a three-part attack to take back the Suchan Valley. This was a challenging task because the region was known for its harsh weather.

Who Fought in the Campaign?

• American Forces: About 3,520 American soldiers, sailors, and marines took part.
  • The 31st Infantry of the U.S. Army led the main fighting.
  • The U.S. Marines and U.S. Navy helped guard the areas that were captured.
  • Two U.S. Navy ships, the USS Albany and USS New Orleans, were also involved.
• Bolshevik Forces: Between 4,000 and 6,000 Bolshevik fighters defended the valley. Their commander was Sergey Lazo.

How the Battle Unfolded

Five companies from the 31st Infantry Regiment were given the job of clearing the Suchan Valley. As they captured parts of the valley, other American forces stepped in. The U.S. Marines and U.S. Navy took over guarding these areas. This allowed the Army to keep moving forward.

Results of the Campaign

The Suchan Valley Campaign was a success for the American forces.

• American Losses: 22 soldiers were killed and 33 were wounded.
• Bolshevik Losses: Around 500 Bolshevik fighters were killed.

The Americans successfully took control of the mining region. This operation caused heavy losses for the Bolsheviks. It was considered a "clean sweep" because the Americans achieved their goals with relatively few casualties compared to the Bolsheviks.