Major N.F. Syromyatnikov Assigns Combat Tasks to Red Army Signalmen — 1941, Dorohobuz

July 29, 2025 - Reading time: 6 minutes

Major Nikolai Syromyatnikov, Chief of Communications of the 127th Rifle Division, assigning tasks to Red Army signalmen near Dorohobuz, 1941.

In this powerful image from 1941, Major Nikolai F. Syromyatnikov, the Chief of Communications for the 127th Rifle Division, is seen assigning combat tasks to Red Army signalmen. This moment took place west of Dorohobuz during the critical early months of World War II, showcasing the dedication and coordination required to maintain vital communication lines during one of the most turbulent periods in Soviet military history.

Major Syromyatnikov (born in 1901) played a key role in the Soviet defense against the German invasion. The 127th Rifle Division, which would later be reorganized into the 2nd Guards Motorized Rifle Division, was stationed at the Western Front and engaged in significant combat during the war’s initial stages. The Red Army’s signalmen were essential in ensuring the effectiveness of Soviet operations, providing real-time communication and coordination.

This photograph not only highlights the importance of communications during wartime but also commemorates the dedication of those in the Soviet signal corps. It’s a reminder of the lesser-known yet crucial contributions of soldiers like Major Syromyatnikov, who led with conviction despite the odds.

After being promoted, Syromyatnikov later commanded the 1034th Rifle Regiment of the 293rd Rifle Division, where he met his tragic death in June 1942 during the battle near Velikomikhaylovka in the Kursk region, while attempting to break through the enemy encirclement.

Technical photo data:
📝 Source of information: Unknown
📍 Location: Dorohobuz, Smolensk Region, USSR
📅 Date of photo: 1941
📷 Photographer: Unknown

• Major Syromyatnikov

• Soviet signalmen

• 127th Rifle Division WWII

• Red Army communications

• Soviet WWII command

• Soviet military leadership 1941

• Soviet communications in WWII

• Soviet signal corps

• Soviet WWII heroes

• Dorohobuz 1941