The Military in Soviet Society

Abstract

It was entirely like the fulfillment of a responsible assignment in war. At the appointed hour each of the 'scouts' received an envelope with a wax seal and the inscription 'absolutely secret.' In it were crisp, military-style directions and a map. The participants, each separately, were ordered to seek out one of the local monuments related to events of the October Revolution or the Patriotic War and then gather as many details as possible. So operation 'Absolutely Secret' began. The 'warriors' made their way through forest paths to fulfill the assignment. Then, using the map and password, they gathered at the appointed time [to report]. . . . The 'scouts' were village boys and girls, members of the youth club. . . . [They then went in a procession, torches held aloft, to a cemetery of victims of fascism.] Youths and maidens swore to be true helpers of the party, to fight for peace and happiness on earth. Then military campaign songs resounded over the meadow.1 For Soviet schoolboys (and girls, too) such educational inspirational activities are no novelty, as countless clubs, often presided over by officers or reservists, train children in military-patriotic skills and virtues. From preschool years, children are encouraged to play war games. The Pioneers, which include nearly all children from ten to fifteen, march briskly, salute smartly, stand in formation, and swear solemn oaths in many a martial ceremony. In the Urals district, it was reported in 1969, military authorities sponsored 35 orphanages and 815 schools; there were 235 divisions of Young Friends of the Soviet Army, 438 military sport clubs, 418 military museums, and 5186 corners of military glory. About 1200 soldiers were leaders of pioneer brigades and 200,000 schoolchildren were guests on trips to army posts.2 Millions of boys and girls are taken on pilgrimages to the