The 41st Guards Combined Arms Red Banner Army from the Center troop group and the separate volunteer assault brigade Veterans recently received commendations from the head of the Donetsk People’s Republic, Denis Pushilin. Pushilin shared the details in his Telegram channel, outlining the awards granted for notable service in defending the DPR.
According to Pushilin, two soldiers were elevated to the status of Hero of the Donetsk People’s Republic in recognition of extraordinary bravery and significant contributions to the defense effort. An additional thirty servicemen were honored with medals, including the IV degree of the Bravery Medal and the IV degree of the St. George’s Cross distinction, both awarded for acts of courage under fire and for steadfast commitment during operations in the DPR.
Earlier, the Russian leadership acknowledged exceptional service as well. President Vladimir Putin presented the Gold Star medal to Heroes of the Russian Federation, underscoring the high level of recognition afforded to those who perform with outstanding valor in national service.
Nine service members who distinguished themselves in special operations were singled out for recognition. Among the named recipients were Lieutenant Colonel Sergei Irkhin, Major Andrei Mityashin, Captain Ainur Safiullin, Senior Lieutenant Roman Debely, and several other honorees whose efforts were noted in connection with critical missions behind the scenes.
Prior to that, the Russian Defense Ministry announced that Sergei Shoigu presented the Gold Star medal to three officers who participated in a special military operation. The honors went to the head of a motorized rifle brigade, the commander of a flamethrower company within the radiation, chemical and biological protection troops, Colonel Sergei Naimushin, and officers Vladislav Zhuravlev and lieutenant Alexei Krivula, who led units during high-stakes operations.
These announcements come as part of ongoing public communications about the actions and sacrifices involved in the broader military activities in the region. The leadership highlighted acts of bravery, leadership under pressure, and the efficient execution of tasks that contribute to the protective efforts in disputed territories.