In April 1943, Crimean offensive operation began. As part of the rifle regiment, Ivan Ivanovich went through the entire Crimea. He participated in the liberation of Sevastopol and the assault on Mount Sapun.
His rifle regiment supported the infantry offensive with mortar fire. Ivan Ivanovich and two other soldiers were given the task of providing the mortar company with ammunition during the battle to maintain the continuous fire. For taking Mount Sapun, Ivan Ivanovich was recommended for an award.
Awards:
Order of Glory of the 1st and 2nd classes, Order of the Patriotic War of the 2nd class, medal "For the Victory over Germany"
Memories of the assault on Mount Sapun:
"Near Sevastopol, we set out on the offensive, the Germans hold onto every piece of land, fired at us from guns, I was 18 years old in 1944, but my hair turned grey that year. The Germans shot at every soldier, and the old-timers taught me: when you moving in rushes across the field, try to get into the crater from the explosion because it will not get hit again"
