Soviet Portrait – Yakov T. Ryabenko – Order of Glory Recipient – 196th Artillery Regiment

Original Soviet portrait photograph of decorated Red Army veteran Yakov Timofeevich Ryabenko (Рябенко Яков Тимофеевич), a documented Order of Glory recipient.

The reverse identifies the recipient as: Ryabenko Yakov Timofeevich. Photographed: 15 January 1968

Archival research confirms Ryabenko served as a gunner (layer) in the: 196th Artillery Regiment

Born in 1926, Ryabenko entered the Red Army in May 1943 and fought on the Baltic Front during the Great Patriotic War.

Award records show he was recommended for the Order of Glory III Class for bravery during offensive combat operations in 1944.

During fighting near Soldatskie Uchastki, Ryabenko’s battery moved into firing positions under intense enemy artillery and mortar fire. When the regular gun-layer became a casualty, Ryabenko immediately assumed the role himself and continued combat operations under fire.

His actions contributed directly to:

• Destruction of 1 enemy firing position
• Suppression of enemy resistance
• Support of Soviet offensive operations

For courage, initiative, and steadfastness in battle, he was awarded the Order of Glory 3rd Class, one of the most respected Soviet enlisted bravery awards.

The portrait shows Ryabenko later in life wearing his wartime decorations and campaign medals.

Included:

• Original named Soviet portrait photograph
• Handwritten identification on reverse
• Digital scan of wartime award documentation
• Full research on recipient and service history

A desirable researched Soviet portrait grouping belonging to a decorated artillery veteran and Order of Glory recipient.