The fundamental principle of state heraldry in general, and military heraldry in particular, is the widespread use of historically established symbols that are familiar to most people in this profession to represent the same or similar phenomena and qualities. The use of these historical symbols in the creation of regimental and other insignia, patches, chevrons, emblems, and even coats of arms for units and formations allows people in uniform not only to feel the connection between generations of defenders of the Fatherland, but also to implement the continuity of military traditions in practice. Another extremely important function of military heraldry is educational: the revival of the historical symbols of the Russian army and navy, as well as their addition and modification in accordance with modern realities, contribute to the development of love for the history of the Fatherland and its glorious military, the cultivation of the corporate spirit of soldiers, and the strengthening of discipline. One of the areas of military heraldry is phaleristics - the art of designing breast insignia, badges. This issue of "Heraldic Bulletin" is devoted to the history of breast insignia and badges of the Russian Navy. The first breast insignia of the Russian Navy appeared in the middle of the 19th century. These were insignia awarded for graduating from military academies. Later, insignia were established in honor of the anniversaries of regiments that originated from naval units, fortresses, and finally, for graduating from other naval educational institutions. By the end of the century, the fashion for making breast insignia and tokens had spread to all units and formations of the Naval Department. They were ordered for the anniversaries of ships, units, and formations, in honor of ship laying and launching, in memory of long voyages and friendly visits to foreign ports, and as awards for the winners of rowing and sailing races. It is noteworthy that breast insignia of ... Читать далее