Badges of the Soviet Army
(1979-1989)

 

 

This section covers some of the many badges that were awarded to members of the Soviet Army.  The badges of the VDV (paratroopers) are also covered here. In each case we will attempt to give a full history of each badge when possible, and a general description at the very least. The selection of badges we have to view is listed below.
 

 

 

Guards Badge

This is a more recent version of the Soviet Guards badge. It was worn by all members of a unit within a Guards division. Guards badges (and divisions) were created in 1942 during the Great Patriotic War. They were divisions who distinguished themselves in battle. Since then other units (usually airborne) have been awarded Guards status. This version of the badge is made of brass and enamel, later versions were made of aluminum and paint.

  

Suvorov Army Cadet School Graduation Badge

This badge was established in 1958 and given to all graduates of the Suvorov schools.  It is made of brass and enamel.
  

  

Military Police 'Patrol' Badges

The badge was established in 1973 and was worn by military policemen (Kommandant service) while on duty.  The badge measures 75mm long and 60mm wide.  It is a pinback badge made of aluminum and enamel.  The badge was officially used from 1973 until the end of the Soviet Union in 1991.

 

 

  

Officer's School Badges

The Soviet army began to issue badges to officers who had graduated from the officer's schools.  Many different types of badges were issued (some for medical school, artillery, aviation, etc).  At present we only have two to show here.

Junior Officer School Badge

Established in 1982, issued to graduates of Junior Officer Schools.  The badge is a screwback type made of aluminum and enamel.  It replaced the earlier version issued in 1961.

Senior Officer School Badge

Established in 1957, issued to graduates of an academy for senior officers.  It is made of aluminum and enamel.

 

1975 Mine Clearing Badge

The badge established in 1975 and was awarded to soldiers for mine clearing operations under combat conditions.  It is a pinback and made of aluminum and enamel.

     

Excellence in Service Badge

These badges were awarded to soldiers and airmen for their excellent service. These badges are made of aluminum and enamel. The army badge says - Excellence in Soviet Army.

  

      

Excellent Military Construction Worker Badge - 1954 Type

This badge was established in 1954 and given to officers and enlisted men for good work and service in the field of military construction.  It is made of brass and enamel.  It was used from 1954 until the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991.
  

  

Back to Patches, Badges, Medals and
Awards of the Afghan War