USSR - SOVIET UNION
The Military and Civil Society of the USSR was heavily politicised naturally by the dominance of the Communist Party.
Propaganda and Agitation were effective techniques utilised to keep the masses enthralled with the successes of
the socialist experiment. The military had a unique dual command structure, whereby higher formations and unit commanders
played second fiddle so to say with Political Commissars and Political Departments. The morale and political will of the military was
monitored and steered by these Political Commissars. The Soviet Political Commissar system itslef wasn't imune from political interference
and was re-structured on numerous occassions. Zampolits or Political Commissars were disbanded and the term Political Oficer introduced.
Zampolits were recognisable by their unique red star insignia and their role, function and responsibilities mirrored in other Eastern Bloc nations and
in Communist China (and within Nationalist China - Taiwan).
Following the re-structuring of the Zampolits into Political Officer's, the now famous insignia worn to designate a Political Officer became less evident.
Political Officers received instruction and training at dedicated Military Academies. The Lenin Political Military Academy is the best known of these.
Agitation and the promotion of Propaganda actions were rewarded by military medals and the like.
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Political Officer Award (of some sort). The central motif is a famous depiction of a Pol Commissar urging the troops forward into battle
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An award for the advancing of Propaganda or political thinking amongst soldiers
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The Political Commissar / Zampolit sleeve insignia.
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The Political Commissar played such an important role in the Soviet Armed Forces that Hitler issued
the infamous KOMMISSAR Order - All Commissars were to be shot immediately - without due regard to their surrender etc.
The Pol Com or Zampolit wore a distinct belt buckle.
The Soviet Military had numerous Academies and Military University's - specialising in
military functions and science. One such academy with a specific remit to instruct, foster
and produce good communists for military leadership was the LENIN POLITICAL MILITARY ACADEMY
Graduates became Political Officers within the Armed Forces, and received Graduation Qualification insignia
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BMA - Lenin Political-Military Academy Silver gilt, enamal - 4 piece construction. screw back -circa 1950's
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Lenin Political Military Academy anniversary award
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The Kiev Soviet Naval Political Military Academy 70 years commerative award
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The Soviet Mouthpiece 'Red Star' Newspaper
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