Taimbet Komekbaev

Early life Komekbaev was born in 1896 in the village of Zhosaly (now in Kazakhstan's Kyzylorda Region). His family were peasants. Komekbaev graduated from the village school. After graduation, he worked in a coal warehouse. Komekbaev reportedly spent his spare time hunting.

World War II In November 1941, Komekbaev was drafted into the Red Army. He was sent to the Leningrad Front and served with the 128th Rifle Division. Komekbaev conducted reconnaissance missions. In early 1943, Komekbaev helped capture 14 German military personnel during a raid on their headquarters. For his actions, Komekbaev was awarded the Medal for Battle Merit on 10 February. On 10 April, Komekbaev was awarded the title Hero of the Soviet Union and the Order of Lenin for his achievements. He was demobilized soon after with the rank of senior sergeant. He returned to Zhosaly and worked in the coal industry. On 11 March 1985, he was awarded the Order of the Patriotic War 1st class on the 40th anniversary of the end of World War II. Komekbaev died on 13 February 1987.