Soviet foto

[agfa -brovira]

hello

i want know about soldier from photto

is it specnatz or some other unit member?

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[Centaur32]

hello

i want know about soldier from photto

is it specnatz or some other unit member?

Uploaded with ImageShack.us

Your soldier is a Soviet airborne (VDV) trooper who is wearing his "Dembel" (Demobilized) uniform which features strictly unauthorized (but tolerated) additions, such as the officers' kokarde on his blue beret. I hope this helps.

Cheers,

Jim

[Paul R]

I am just now seeing this awesome photo! I am sorry that I missed it. Thanks Jim! That is one great uniform.

[Paul R]

BTW, from what I read, SPEZNAZ is not a specific unit or MOS. It is a general term used to describe troops with a bit more training that the average infantryman. Please, if someone has more to say on this, I am a willing pupil!

[Noor]

Here is two VDV guys who photos I just picked up few weeks ago.

Parade uniform and looks like wears only official badges (paratrooper, otlitchinik, gvardia, sport grade), no "dembelskaya" look in there. I presume this shot is from 60-70s. no idea what award is on the right side (small square "kolodka").

and maybe even slightly earlier period. i presume second badge can be "sport qualification"?

[Noor]

and here is two nice post war photos of regular soldiers, what I just picked up

[Paul R]

Those are some great photos! I love the fact that they are named and dated. Thank you for sharing them.

[Noor]

and my yesterday find!

Nice picture from 1945 where is as well on very brave frontline soldier - three bravery awards; Order of Glory 3rd Class (Orden "Slava") and two Bravery medals (Za Otvagu)!

close up

and the best part... there are their names behind

"Haapsalu (coastal town in Estonia), July 1945. after frontline. Friends ANATOLI IVANOVITS and friend PJOTR SARJADA (he is on the left on the picture)". Below extra name and date "STEPAN GERAŠILOVITŠ 30.09.45"