Battle of Stalingrad German 6th Army's flanks. The Axis forces on the flanks were overrun and the 6th Army was cut off and surrounded in the Stalingrad area. Adolf Hitler ordered that the army stay in Stalingrad and make no attempt to break out; instead, attempts were made to supply the army by air and to break the encirclement from the outside. Heavy fighting continued for another two months. By the beginning of February 1943, the Axis forces in Stalingrad had exhausted their ammunition and food. The remaining units of the 6th Army surrendered. The battle lasted five months, one week and three
Defender of the Motherland Medal Defender of the Motherland Medal The "Defender of the Motherland" Medal () is a commemorative medal awarded by Ukraine. It was established on 8 October 1999 by presidential decree № 1299. An award of the President of Ukraine, the "Defender of the Motherland" Medal is awarded to war veterans, who live in Ukraine, as well as citizens of other countries which participated in the liberation of Ukraine from Nazi occupation. It may also be awarded to other citizens of Ukraine for personal courage and bravery while protecting the public interest, and strengthening the defense and security of Ukraine. The medal