In February 1943, the division was transferred to the Northwestern Front, where it became part of the 68th Army, fighting in the Demyansk Offensive.

From the area of Kotelva it advanced to the northwestern part of Poltava, establishing contact with the 5th Guards Army.

At Semyonovka village, the division reached the left bank of the Southern Bug.

These units created a threat to the Germans holding Pervomaisk, which caused them to retreat.

For its part in taking the city, the division was awarded the honorary title "Pervomaisk".