(ALEXREI MARESYEV) (d. 2001) Celebrated Russian World War II ace. His story is incredible: shot down the winter of 1941, he survived in the woods for eighteen days crawling through the snow until he came upon help. Although his feet were subsequently amputated, the determined pilot nonetheless learned to use crutches and fly again, in 1943, went to the front lines once again, shooting down seven enemy planes in the Oryol-Kursk Battle. For his service, Maresyev was awarded the prestigious title of Hero of the Soviet Union. A fine and scarce relic, an original medal awarded to Maresyev by the Soviet Committee of World War II veterans in 197?, accompanied by a card showing the medal, signed by PASEL I. BATOV(1897-1985), renowned World War II general and head of the Committee. The medal is gold-toned, with a red Soviet star and enameled pin portion. Very good condition. $200-300