title: Andrey Melnikov
text: # Andrey Melnikov
  
  Andrey Alexandrovich Melnikov (Russian: Андрей Александрович Мельников, Belarusian: Андрэй Мельнікаў; 11 April 1968 – 8 January 1988) was a machine gunner with the rank of private in the 9th Company of the 345th Independent Guards Airborne Regiment under the 40th Army during the Soviet-Afghan war.
  
  Melnikov was present during the Battle for Hill 3234 as an RPK gunner. During the late night of January 8, Melnikov blunted a strong mujahideen attack on the 9th Company's position, at the cost of his life. For his bravery and skill under fire, Melnikov was posthumously awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union.
  
  