After graduating from the Vladimir Provincial Men’s Gymnasium and the Physics and Mathematics Department of Moscow University, Dmitry Grigorievich Stoletov, following in the footsteps of his brother Nikolai, opted for military service. He completed his studies at the Mikhailovsky Artillery School and then at the Mikhailovskaya Artillery Academy. Dmitry Stoletov began his career at the St. Petersburg Ammunition Factory and, in the summer of 1876, as a staff captain, volunteered for service in the Serbian-Turkish War. One year later, he found himself in the Balkans during the Russo-Turkish conflict. As part of a siege artillery unit, Stoletov took part in the bombardment and assault on Nikopol, supplied weapons and ammunition to defending regiments at the Shipka Pass, contributed to the siege of Plevna, and participated in the battle of Shipka-Sheynovo.

Dmitry Stoletov endeavored to emulate his elder brother in all respects, demonstrating utmost attention and concern for the soldiers who constantly faced the hardships of war.

The exhibition showcases awards that Stoletov received for his service during the Russo-Turkish War, including the prestigious Romanian Crossing of the Danube Cross, which was established on October 25, 1877 by Prince Charles I of Romania in commemoration of the crossing. This honor, along with other Romanian decorations, was bestowed upon tens of thousands of Russian servicemen, officers, and generals who took part in the crossing on June 15, 1877 and the battles of Plevna, Shipka Pass, and Sheynovo. Civilians who contributed to the war effort were also presented with the Cross. Dmitry Stoletov received this award on October 8, 1880 for his service in the siege of Plevna under the command of Prince Charles.

The award is a four-armed iron cross with rectangular projections on each arm. Thus, the arms themselves form four crosses. The medallion in the center bears the monogram of Prince Charles I, under a crown.

The award, along with other memorabilia related to Alexander Stoletov, was transferred to the museum by the Earth Science Museum at Moscow State University. It is believed that it belonged to Dmitry Grigoryevich, Alexander Stoletov’s brother.