This rule book was issued in 1987 for the Soviet Military Contingent in Afghanistan. The Soviets still had two bloody years left before the last troops made it home. Not getting drafted to serve in Afghanistan was probably the only benefit of being Jewish that ever materialized in all off my life in the USSR. Thousands of others weren’t so lucky and over 15,000 didn’t come home.
Materials for Counter-Propaganda Work. January 1987
Carry the title of the Soviet Citizen with honor and dignity. Follow the Soviet Laws, Military Oath, Military Law, orders of the superiors; fulfill patriotic and international duty in good faith.
Unapproved connections and meetings are banned. (Notice a backstabbing local)
Visiting local markets and stores to buy goods, food, alcohol and drugs is banned.
Undressing and sunbathing may offend local and religious traditions and is not recommended.
Walking into yards and dwellings of locals, peeking into doors and windows as well as staring at women's faces and starting conversations with them is banned.
Receiving presents and bribes from the government and individuals, as well as receiving free services is banned.
Constantly be on guard, maintain secrecy, do not discuss military and other subjects when locals are present
Not much changed since then and now the American troops who are stationed on the old Soviet base in Bagram may find these tips useful as ever.
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