Russia, Soviet Union. An Order for Service to the Motherland in the Armed Forces of the USSR, III Class

(ЗА СЛУЖБУ РОДИНЕ В ВС СССР)Instituted October 28, 1974. In silver, an eight point star, with four points consisting of smooth rays and the remaining four set behind with blue enamel presenting large crossed Soviet Strategic Rocket Forces, a central five point star is superimposed within a white enamel ring inscribed ЗА СЛУЖБУ РОДИНЕ В ВС СССР (For Service to the Motherland in the Armed Forces of the USSR), air force wings and anchors are placed behind the ring on the smooth rays, the reverse bears a central screw post, marked with Russian Mint mark and numbered 19137, with screw plate, measures 57.45mm (w) x 57.15mm (h), weighs 73.2 grams, enamels intact, dark patina, remains in extremely fine condition.

Footnote: It was awarded to servicemen in the Soviet Army, Navy, frontier guards and internal security forces for exemplary or outstanding service. More specifically, it could be awarded for accomplishments in military in political training; for high rating in official activity; or for bravery and self-sacrifice in executing military duties. As of 1991, a total of 13 I Class, 589 II Class and 69,576 III Class decorations were awarded.