Newspaper of Soviet submariners of the Baltic fleet "Dozor" dated June 22, 1942

This is an exceptionally rare wartime issue of the Red Navy newspaper Dozor, No. 55, dated June 22, 1942 — exactly one year after Nazi Germany’s surprise invasion of the Soviet Union. Dedicated to the anniversary of the war, this issue commemorates the heroism of Baltic Fleet submariners, featuring orders, decorations, political speeches, and naval poetry. It documents the resilience of Soviet sailors operating under blockade conditions and highlights submarine crews awarded for valor and technical mastery. Very likely, this is the only surviving copy of this historic publication.

---

Newspaper Dozor, No. 55 — June 22, 1942 (Monday)

Read and pass it on
DEATH TO THE GERMAN OCCUPIERS!

---

"Under the great banner of Lenin and Stalin, we are waging our heroic war of liberation against German fascism. Under the great banner of Lenin and Stalin, we will carry this struggle through to victorious end — to the triumph of our Motherland and all freedom-loving peoples."
(V. M. Molotov)

---

A YEAR OF WAR

On June 22, 1941, the mechanized bands of fascist Germany treacherously attacked our country. Their criminal invasion sparked outrage across the world. The peoples of the Soviet Union stood at their posts to defend the homeland and crush the vile German invaders.

Across a vast front from the Baltic to the Black Sea, the Soviet people fought in bloody battle to repel the enemy.
With heroism, resilience, and strength, the Red Army and Navy shattered Hitler’s plans.

Our air force, submarines, artillery, and infantry together made vital contributions. The Red Banner Baltic Fleet’s submariners, despite blockade and hardship, struck at enemy supply lines with precision and daring.

The crews of submarines under commanders Isachenko, Mikhailov, Konovalov, Novikov, Sidora, Kutukov, Kuznetsov, Ivanov, Pavlov, Dorokhov, and Kozachev defended their vessels and struck down German escorts.

---

Medals Awarded to Baltic Submariners

On this anniversary, numerous sailors received high honors.

The Order of the Red Star was awarded to:
– Petty Officer 2nd Class Denishchev
– Chief Petty Officer Kutukov
– Engineer Lieutenant Novikov
– Warrant Officer Yurkevich
– Motor Group Leader Mikhailov
– and others

The Medal for Combat Merit was awarded to:
– Davydov, Yeremeyev, Komarov, Mikhailov, Sukhanov, Simeyev

In recent months, mechanics, radio operators, electricians, and signalmen have been increasingly recognized for their heroism. Awards are now earned — not granted by position, but deserved through action.

---

EXAM PASSED

Submarine crews have faced abnormal training conditions this year:
– Depth testing
– Trim control
– Underwater maneuvering
– Full system checks under combat scenarios

Boat BCh-5 completed all drills successfully. Despite complexity, the crew passed its test — proving combat readiness and unity.

---

Heroes of the Deep
(Caption: Brave submariners — Kutukov V., Sukhanov P.)

---

V. Azarov
We Will Return!
To Lieutenant P. I. Shapayev, commander of the submarine defending Libau

In smoky battle’s thunder roll
We mark this day with pride.
Soon, again to Libau’s shore
Our anchors will abide.

We’ll seize the enemy’s escape,
And roar our flags ashore —
The sons of Baltic rise again
And answer duty’s roar.

This hour, bold and fierce with fire,
Will test our nation’s path.
In burning charge we will not tire —
Our people's holy wrath.

As soldiers stood near Moscow's wall
They swore the way was clear.
"We’ll hold the line — we shall not fall!"
Again that vow we hear...

---

Twice Decorated

In December 1941, pilot Lieutenant Smolikov attacked a Nazi transport. He and his gunner lit the ship ablaze and sank it. For this, he earned the Order of the Red Banner.

Later, he scouted a heavily defended enemy base, photographing enemy positions despite intense anti-air fire. He was awarded a second Red Banner.

---

Nikolai Snegirev
The Immortal Feat
To Lieutenant Nikolai Pepushkin

That night the wind was soft and cold,
It stirred the northern deep.
And under Kronstadt’s watchful eyes
Our sailors lost no sleep.

The boat moved silent through the dark,
Beneath the moonlit tide.
Brave hearts stood watch and kept the mark,
Their orders true with pride.

“Remember this!” the first mate said.
“Let’s strike as men who know!”
With motors humming fast and loud,
They glided down below.

Three hours 'til dawn’s arrival —
The captain stood alert.
The torpedoes loosed like vengeance
That split the hulls and hurt.

A hit! The convoy burst in flame —
The sea lit up with war.
The submarine dove fast again,
The fight not finished — more!

The rudder turned, the coast in sight,
The mission had been won.
Pepushkin and his crew returned —
Their fiery task was done.

---

Torpedoman Kukushkin

During missions in the Gulf of Finland, engineer Kukushkin repaired damaged torpedoes under fire and salvaged gear during combat.

For excellence, he was awarded a Navy commendation. Kukushkin is a dedicated technician, whose knowledge has helped train others.

V. Metkin

---

A. Kron
Story — The Birth of a Sailor

A decorated ceremony was held for young sailors. Among them was Kolya, wounded in battle. The commander shook his hand:

“You held fast — be proud.”

Kolya answered,
“Thank you, comrade. I’ve done my best to be worthy of the Red Banner Baltic Fleet.”

“Write home,” the commander said.
Kolya smiled and returned to formation.

---

CRUISERS AT ANCHOR (TASS Photo)

---

Editorial Office: Naval Mail No. 1101, Mailbox No. 378
Editor-in-Chief: A. Bruk

Payment Options >>

Delivery Info >>