history of the first Guard units in the Russian army originates in the existence of the imperial system.It is known that the first such units were two regiments: Semenov and Preobrazhensky, which were founded during the reign of Peter I. Even then, these regiments in battle showed considerable restraint and heroism.There were such units until the arrival to power of Bolshevism in Russia.Then was an active struggle against the remnants of the Tsarist regime and the Guard units were disbanded, and the concept was forgotten.However, during the Great Patriotic War there was a question encouraging soldiers distinguished themselves, as many soldiers or entire units fought bravely, even against superior enemy forces.It was during this difficult time, and was established by the sign "Guard of the USSR."
Establishment of Soviet Army Guard ranks
In 1941, the Red Army suffered a series of defeats of the Wehrmacht and retreated.The decision to revive the former tradition of the Soviet government came during one of the worst defensive battles - the battle of Smolensk.In this battle, particularly distinguished four divisions: the 100th, 127th, 153rd and 161st.And in September 1941, the order of the Supreme Command, they were renamed to the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th Guards Division and assigned a corresponding title.This was handed over to the entire personnel of the sign "Guards" and relied special salaries: for ordinary - double, for officers - Bastard.Later this became a sign and banners decorating and distinguished departments (since 1943).
During the war, the Guard was awarded the title of many pieces that have shown in the battle against the invaders courage and heroism.But the story of elite connections in the Red Army does not end there.Awarding the title of Guards held during other armed conflicts.They lasted until the collapse of the Soviet Union.Handing sign "Guard" to any recruit who was in part, but only after it will be a baptism of fire, and in such labor forces, such as aviation or navy, these requirements were more stringent.And in this respect, there was no distinction between officers and ordinary soldiers.
Badge "Guards": description
total there are several varieties of this award: WWII, post-war and contemporary characters.Each of them has its differences, as changed over time the design and manufacture.And they produced at different factories.The following will describe a sample of 1942 release.
So this honorable award is a sign in the shape of a laurel wreath, covered with gold enamel.The upper part is closed in red waving flag on which is written in golden letters "Guards".All the space inside the wreath is covered with white enamel.In the center stands the five-pointed star of the Soviet army in red with gold trim.Left rays star crosses the flagstaff that is intertwined with ribbons.From her depart two cords that hang on the left branch wreath.At the bottom is a cartouche, on which is engraved the inscription "USSR".
When you assign any part of the title of Guards emblem, depicting the award, was applied also to military equipment - tanks or airplanes.
character size - 46 x 34 mm.It was made of red brass - an alloy of brass, copper and zinc.Its properties are not allowed to award rust.To attach to clothes make a special pin and nut.Award worn on the right side of the chest of clothes.
project has developed SI Dmitriev.One of the variants was almost the same sign, but was placed on the banner of Lenin's profile.However, Stalin did not like the idea, and he ordered to replace the profile labeled "Guards".So the reward received its final form.
Benefits and features
For those who had the sign "Guard of the USSR", relied privileges.The award received is retained by her man, even if he left the Guard service.The same was true of the transfer of a soldier in another part.The award is also worn in the postwar period.In 1951, the Soviet government passed a law which has decided to temporarily stop handing sign "Guard", making it only in exceptional cases.This procedure was observed until 1961, when Defense Minister Malinovsky approved the order according to which, the right to wear the sign will take effect when the service in the Guards Division.On the Great Patriotic War veterans, he did not apply.
separate mention of delivery.It was carried out solemnly, with a total construction of all units, with banners unfurled.Besides the award, the soldier also given a document containing the relevant information about the award and confirming it.But over time, the presentation itself has become a routine and lost its "ritual" significance.
Modernity
Now, when the glory of past events fade, can be purchased from a variety of private traders military awards.As one of the most popular rewards is just a sign of "Guards", its price is usually low.This depends on several features: the timing and method of manufacturing, history rewards, as well as someone who sells.Price starts from an average of 2,000 rubles.
Total
sign "Guards" testified to the heroism, valor and military skills of the wearer.During the existence of the USSR, awarded the title of the Guard, considered elite, and the soldiers who served in these units is treated with great respect.
