MATROSOV, Alexander Matveyevich

MATROSOV, Alexander Matveyevich [born Mukhamedyanov Shakiryan Yunusovich; 5.2.1923, according to other data, 1924, Derevnya Kunakbayevo of TamyanKataysky Canton of the BASSR (Uchalinsky Raion of the RB) – 27.2.1943, near Derevnya Pleten of Pskov Obl., buried in Velikiye Luki], Hero of the Soviet Union (1943). Awarded with the Order of Lenin (1943). Participant of the Great Patriotic War. In the Red Army since September, 1942. Since 1943, he served in the 91st Sib. Rifle Brigade of the Kalinin Front. Private M. was awarded the title of Hero posthumously for the outstanding courage shown in the battle on February 27th, near Derevnya Pleten, in the course of which he covered the firing port of the enemy’s earthand‑timber emplacement with his body, thus allowing the combat task of his division to be completed. This feat became a symbol of courage, martial prowess and love for the Motherland. A park and streets in Ufa, Beloretsk, etc are named after M. Monuments to M. are installed in Velikiye Luki (1954), Ufa (1951, 1980), etc. Museums commemorating M. are opened in Ufa (1966), Velikiye Luki (1971–93), etc. There are An Eagle Dies In Its Flight novel (1958) by A.G.Bikchentayev, Where Are You From, Matrosov? (in Russian language; 1994), A. Matrosov: The Search of Truth (2007) books by R.Kh.Nasyrov, Pri- vate Alexander Matrosov (1948) feature film, Find Me Under The Name Matrosov (2001) and A Truth About The Feat (2006) documentary films, devoted to the Hero.