WORLD WAR II VETERAN ELEP BALTOGAYEV: FROM ATYRAU TO FRANCE – A ROAD OF SUFFERING

Abstract

: This article is devoted to one of the gaps in knowledge in the historiography of World War II, as well as to the human experience during the war. In connection with the passing of the veteran, the authors pay special attention to these unresolved issues. Among the topics that remained largely unexplored for a long time due to the one -sidedness of Soviet ideology and the circumstances of the Cold War, 198 particular importance is attached to the study of the fates of front -line soldiers who marched across Europe and endured the horrors of war. The article presents t he dramatic life story of Elep Baltogayev, a Kazakh soldier and World War II veteran from Atyrau. Having gone to the front to defend his homeland, he was captured on Soviet territory, survived the German occupation, escaped from a German prisoner-of- war ca mp in France, and joined the French Resistance movement. Despite the hardships of fascist captivity, he continued his fight against the enemy, demonstrating resilience, courage, and a love of life. In the post -war period, the veteran also contributed to th e development of his country and the upbringing of the next generation.