Award Booklets

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As I gradually bring together some information from friends in Kabul (some of whom would, in the Old Days, have been able to answer everything from records that seem to no longer exist), a few scraps of quick-refence value have emerged.

One is a quick and easy way (for those Dari-illiterates among us, like me) to distinguish order booklets from medal booklets.

Look at the first word on the second row of text (remembering that the test flows from right-to-left).

It will either say "Nishan" (the first example below, "Order") or "Medal" (the second example below, "Medal"). The fonts used may or may not be of help, for I believe there are different issues of these booklets, and the fonts used have more to do with time period that what is inside (this is being explored).

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The Order Book.

Note that there are separate lines and the name of the order must be entered.

And, yes, I find the use of English on the bilingual stamp to be "odd".

(I am showing awards to Afghans, and may add some examples of awards to Soviets later on if there is any interest.)

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The Medal Book.

Note the names of the medals already printed (an information BONANZA!) with entries made only for the relevant award(s).

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And, oh, while it may be off topic . . .

The Medal for Distinguished Military Service.

Parallel to the Soviet award, but in only one class.

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And, OK, some award documents to Soviets:

1- Order of Gallantry

2- Medal for Gallantry (booklet used incorrectly, you'll note)

3- Medal for Distinguiished Military Service