The document measures approx. 14.5 x 21 cm (5½" x 8¼"). This is one of the early style, "large" certificates for the defensive campaign medals which were replaced by booklet style certificates for the campaign medals instituted later in the war. Hand-signed by Tank Corps Major General Lobanov, Commander of the Poltava Tank School and shows an ink stamp of the school.

The certificate is in good condition. It has been folded in four for storage as was customary and has developed separations along the folds that have been repaired with four small pieces of backing tape applied to the verso. There is a single small clip to the lower margin but the edges are otherwise free of significant wear. There are a few very minor, barely noticeable water stains near the upper and lower edges but the document is overall very clean. The writing and unit stamp are fully legible.

According to the documentation found on the Russian archival website Pamyat-naroda.ru, Nikolay Maladan took part in the Battle of Stalingrad as a rifleman Private with the 1315th Rifle Regiment, 258th Rifle Division. In the early part of the battle, his division was a part of the 65th Army of the Don Front. Maladan's frontline service at Stalingrad ended on 5 November 1942, two weeks short of the Soviet counteroffensive. The most plausible explanation is that he was wounded on that day and evacuated into the rear, and therefore did not take part in the rest of the battle. A month later, his unit was reassigned to the 5th Shock Army, a part of the Southwestern, and later, Southern Front. Maladan still had the rank of private in March 1945. It is not clear what was his position at the Poltava Tank School but in most likelihood, he was sent there near the end of the war to complete an NCO training program.

Research Materials: photocopy of the Medal for the Defense of Stalingrad recipients roll for the Poltava Tank School issued in March 1945; copy of the certificate issued earlier that month confirming that Maladan took part in the defense of Stalingrad from 17 September - 5 November 1942 and was thereby eligible for the medal.