The 316th Rifle Division, formed in the summer of 1941 from residents of the Kazakh and Kyrgyz SSRs, distinguished itself in the battles near Moscow. This is highlighted in a new historical section on the Russian Ministry of Defense website, dedicated to the role of national formations from Soviet republics in Great Patriotic War.
"Perhaps the most famous example of their heroism is the immortal feat of the 28 Panfilov Guardsmen, who stopped the German advance toward Moscow on November 16, 1941. That day, a small group of soldiers from the 316th Rifle Division, later renamed the 8th Guards Rifle Division named after I. V. Panfilov, defended a stronghold near Dubosekovo station (7 km southeast of Volokolamsk). During a four-hour battle, they destroyed 18 enemy tanks. When their ammunition ran out, they continued to resist with grenades and Molotov cocktails," the statement reads.
The 316th Rifle Division was established between June and August 1941, with up to 70% of its personnel coming from the Kazakh and Kyrgyz SSRs. The division became famous for its steadfast defense in the Battle for Moscow.
Recognition of the Division’s Valor
A decree from the People’s Commissar of Defense of the USSR, dated November 18, 1941, officially renamed the 316th Rifle Division as the 8th Guards Rifle Division, acknowledging its courage, discipline, and tactical effectiveness. From October 20 to 27, 1941, the division repelled attacks from one German tank division and three infantry divisions, inflicting significant losses, including the destruction of up to 80 enemy tanks and several battalions of infantry.
Kazakh and Kyrgyz Soldiers
With the onset of the war, 1.2 million Kazakhs joined the Red Army, many serving in specially formed national units.
A report from the Political Directorate of the Central Asian Military District (February 3, 1942) states:
"Since December 1941, 14 separate national rifle brigades, 14 national cavalry divisions, six rifle divisions, and two separate rifle brigades were formed in the Central Asian Military District. Some units were reinforced with soldiers released from NKVD labor camps: 1,500 men were sent to the 102nd Rifle Brigade, and 1,068 to the 69th Brigade."
Despite being one of the least populated Soviet republics, Kyrgyzstan also made significant contributions to the war effort. Approximately 360,000 people from the Kyrgyz SSR joined the front lines, playing a crucial role in both combat operations and logistical support.
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Based on TASS materials