You’re in the army now
The compulsory two years of military service was a rite of passage for every Soviet guy. When one turned eighteen — unless for sickness or injury — it was time to be called in for the military life — two years in the barracks. Usually away from home, this period of time was meant to train and educate the men should there be a war. It included physical training, political orientation, current affairs, weaponry and so on — a good many posts can be written on life in the army! Today, however, we want to take a different look on this subject. The guys usually bonded well and during their spare time created so called “Discharge Albums” — like scrapbooks, they were full of photos, songs lyrics, quick notes from the buddies etc. This particular one has a very neat selection of wee hand drawn episodes of the army realities.
The albums were usually this thick and bound in velvet cloth
So the owner served between 1984 and 1986, being called in from Leningrad to serve in Olenegorsk in some special forces
This is an extract which tells us exactly what happened…
Here’s a start to the story — the birds are bringing the army subpoena. Please note that the outfits, the hairstyles, even the stereo — all belong to the mid 80s.
The young guy turns up at the military assembly point.
The parents say good bye. The girlfriend promises to stay faithful.
The changeover: someone is arriving, someone is being discharged.
Learning the ropes
On the cleaning assignment
Those were the days, my friend..!
I wish you were here
In full gear. No hope to finish alive
Out in the city — the officer will never let me out of sight
See you right here in exactly seven days
A year and a half on — so nice to be a senior!NB — most likely, this is the radio espionage equipment.
Counting down the hours…
Hooooooooome!
All images are courtesy of the Livejournal user blackie again, whose album this is.
We hope you find this amuzing 
Stay tuned!
Pingback: Tweets that mention Military Discharge Handmade Scrap Book and Comics Album | Real USSR -- Topsy.com
Pingback: uberVU - social comments
Usually away from home, this period of time was meant to train and educate the men should there be a war. It included physical training, political orientation, current affairs, weaponry and so on — a good many posts can be written on life in the army! Today, however, we want to take a different look on this subject.
Had a great time visiting this site! Thanks for the post!
Today, however, we want to take a different look on this subject.
Damn! This could be my best crackpot idea of all time!!
I wanted to thank you for this excellent read!
Nice to be visiting your blog again, it has been months for me. Well this article that i’ve been waited for so long.
I love your web sites content, ill be back extra within the future!