33rd Guards Rifle Division

The 33rd Guards Rifle Division what is formed in the North Caucasus Military District from the 3rd Airborne Corps in June 1942.

Commanders

Colonel Fedor Alexandrovich Afanasyev, 1 May 1942 to 31 July 1942

Colonel Fedor Alexandrovich Afanasyev, a Soviet officer, commanded the 33rd Guards Rifle Division during World War II. His leadership was instrumental in the division’s success during the Battle of Stalingrad, where they defended key positions. Known for his bravery and tactical skill, Afanasyev significantly contributed to Soviet victories before his untimely death in 1943.

Colonel Alexander Ivanovich Utvenko, 15 August 1942 to 17 April 1943

Colonel Alexander Ivanovich Utvenko, a Soviet officer, commanded the 33rd Guards Rifle Division during the Battle of Stalingrad. His leadership was instrumental in defending key positions, showcasing resilience and tactical expertise. Utvenko later commanded the 31st Guards Rifle Corps, contributing significantly to Soviet victories in major offensives, including the Vienna and Prague campaigns.

Units

84th Guards Infantry Regiment
88th Guards Infantry Regiment
91st Guards Infantry Regiment
59th Guards Artillery Regiment
40th Guards Engineer Battalion
21st Guards Anti-Tank Battalion
35th Guards Anti-Aircraft Battalion
21st Guards Reconnaissance Company
59th Guards Artillery Regiment
21st Guards Mortar Battalion

Locations

History

The 33rd Guards Rifle Division, formed in May 1942, originated from the 3rd Airborne Corps’ second formation. Initially assigned to the North Caucasus Front, it later joined the 62nd Army during the Battle of Stalingrad. The division played a crucial role in defending the city, showcasing exceptional resilience and combat effectiveness against German forces.

After Stalingrad, the division participated in major Soviet offensives, including the liberation of Crimea and the Baltic states. It earned the Order of Suvorov for its role in capturing Königsberg. The 33rd GRD exemplified elite Soviet infantry, contributing significantly to the Red Army’s victories.