Hero of the Soviet Union is the highest degree of distinction in the USSR. This title was established by the decree of the Central Executive Committee of the USSR on April 16, 1934. The award was given by the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR for heroic feats in service to the Soviet state and society. The resolution established that “Heroes of the Soviet Union are issued a special certificate” by the Central Executive Committee of the USSR. The medal of the same name was established by the decree of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR from August 1, 1939. It was awarded to persons qualified for this title simultaneously with the award of the Order of Lenin. If the person was awarded this title for the second time, they received a second medal “Hero of the Soviet Union” and their bronze bust was installed in their hometown.

The main exhibition of the museum presents a certificate for obtaining the second title “Hero of the Soviet Union”. It was issued to Alexander Osipovich Shabalin — the commander of a torpedo boat and commander of a detachment of torpedo boats of the Northern Fleet. The certificate was issued on January 5, 1945 — exactly two months after the publication of the corresponding decree.

In 1944, the fearless soldier was awarded the title of Hero of the Soviet Union twice. Alexander Shabalin was distinguished for his daring yet well-planned and effective attacks. By early 1944, he was personally responsible for sinking seven enemy ships. He had four military orders and was soon awarded the Gold Star of the Hero of the Soviet Union. Shabalin was awarded the second Gold Star medal for successfully carrying out the Petsamo-Kirkenes offensive. On the night of October 12–13, 1944, a group of torpedo boats broke into the port of Linakhamari. Shabalin’s boat was the first to land troops at the Devkin backwater pier.

After the end of the war, Alexander Shabalin served as commander of a surface ship brigade, then Deputy Chief of Staff of the Northern Fleet. He completed his military career as Deputy Chief of the Frunze Naval School.