p August 23, 1942

Today, August 23, we’re pounding into the nazi rats. If they kill me, let my country know I died heroically for Stalingrad. I am a candidate to the Party, but please consider me a Party member. Let my country know I died for the cause of the Party.

p In July 1942, the nazi forces pushed through to the Volga. Then commenced a battle unprecedented in the history of war, lasting 200 days and nights and culminating in a glorious triumph for the Soviet people.

First into battle and last out were the Communists and Y.C.L. members. The best officers and men joined the Party in those grim days and took the pledge: "Communists won’t budge from Stalingrad!" That was the pledge taken by young cadet Ivan Shestovskikh.