By seizing the formerly little-known Height 102.0 – the Mamayev Hill - the Red Army fought its way to the fascists' den – Berlin. We are proud to say that our victory in Stalingrad radically changed the whole situation in the Second World War. And this victory meant that our Motherland had withstood one of the most difficult tests in its history. (c) Aleksandr Vasilevsky
Summary
Aleksandr Mikhaylovich Vasilevsky was one of the best Soviet commanders over the course of WW2. One could argue who was the top commander, but officially, Vasilevsky was recognized as the number 2 commander after Zhukov - he was receiving all the top awards shortly after him. Additionally, he was arguably the best USSR strategist. His unofficial ranking as a number 2 commander made him most likely replacement for Zhukov, should he fall out of Stalin’s favor.
Family
As a senior officer, Vasilevsky met frequently with Joseph Stalin. During one of these meetings, Stalin asked Vasilevsky about his family. Since Vasilevsky's father was a priest and thus a potential "enemy of the people", Vasilevsky said that he had ended his relationship with them in 1926. Stalin, surprised, suggested that he reestablish his family ties at once, and help his parents with whatever needs they might have.
Visit to Germany in November 1940
Accompanied Molotov and the Soviet delegation in a diplomatic visit to Germany in November 1940 for negotiations. Many historians think that the German dissatisfaction with the results of the negotiations was one of the key factors that led to the German attack in June 1941.
A man who knew his job as he spent a long time commanding a regiment and who earned great respect from everybody. (c) Georgy Zhukov about Vasilevsky