Watch List notes:

RUSSIAN ORDERS AND BADGES, CIVIL WAR AND THE USSR, ORDERS OF THE USSR, Researched Group of Hero of the Soviet Union Guards Major Mel'nikov I.S. Guards Major Mel'nikov Ivan Semyonovich, born 1914, was a reconnaissance pilot, serving with 98th Guards Separate Reconnaissance Air Regiment (directly reporting to Supreme Command of Air Force of Red Army). By 1945, he flew over 100 combat missions on long distance visual and photo reconnaissance, deep behind enemy lines. The title of Hero of the Soviet Union was bestowed on him by decree of June 29, 1945. Retired in 1960. Died on Feb. 3, 1981. Group comes with; Order of Lenin #52125 (issued with the GOLD Hero Star); Order of the Red Banner #107027; Order of the Red Banner 2nd Award #16562; Order of the Red Banner 3rd Award #3774; Copies of complete official archival research from the Ministry of Defense of Russian Federation, including Personal File, with award card, citations. Commendations, military record (contains photo), etc.; Original black and white 4" x 6" photo; Copy of biography from the 'Heroes of the Soviet Union' reference book. Condition: Excellent vintage condition on all orders, with only a few tiny enamel chips

Estimate: $ 4,000