Continuous learning about history is a necessity. Even concerning a devastating phase like World War II, collective memory is already blurring. In the Western world people start to think, the United States of America have won the war, in other parts of the world Russia is seen as the victor. But we should not forget that it was the entire Soviet Union that paid the highest death toll to slay fascism. The people of Central Asia had a big stake in this; 600,000 Kazakh people died in World War II – a significant share of the population. That’s the reason why they remember their soldiers like the 28 Panfilov guardsmen, but there are more stories to share.
Travelling through Kazakhstan, I also realized how deeply Aliya Moldagulova and Manshuk Mametova are woven into the very heart of the nation’s modern identity. Their names are etched on monuments, schools, and streets across the country, serving as enduring reminders of bravery during World War II. As young women who volunteered for the frontlines, they shattered the stereotypes of their time, embodying both Kazakh resilience and feminine strength at a moment when their nation needed heroes.
Aliya Moldagulova, with her keen marksmanship and unwavering commitment, became a symbol of youthful determination. She joined the ranks as a sniper and distinguished herself through her courage, ultimately making the ultimate sacrifice on the battlefield. Her story is not only about military prowess, but also about the quiet resolve and sense of duty that resonates with the Kazakh spirit – her legacy is that of a daughter who fought for her homeland with sincerity and grit.
Meanwhile, Manshuk Mametova’s tale is equally poignant and powerful. As a machine gunner, she held her ground against overwhelming odds, earning the respect of comrades and superiors alike. Her final stand, defending her position until the very end, is legendary among Kazakhs. To this day, her story is retold in homes and classrooms as an example of unyielding loyalty, selflessness, and national pride – qualities Kazakh people hold dear.
For Kazakh people, Aliya and Manshuk are more than war heroines; they represent hope, unity, and the unbreakable will to preserve freedom and dignity. Their sacrifices are a source of inspiration, particularly to young women who look to their examples as proof that courage and ambition recognize no gender. Wherever you go in Kazakhstan, their legacy serves as a cornerstone of cultural memory – a testament to the enduring power of heroism in shaping national identity.
Aliya Moldagulova and Manshuk Mametova memorial
Алматы
Kazakhstan
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