More about the uniform...

The M-1971 honor guard uniform has its origin in the sweeping changes brought about by the 1969 uniform regulations.  During those reforms the look of virtually all Soviet uniforms was brought to a more modern standard.  The redesign of the uniforms worn by the honor guards took another two years to be implemented.

Unlike the M-1955 honor guard uniforms, these were designed to mirror the look of the services they represented.  In the case of the enlisted summer honor guard uniform, as the cap, tunic, and jacket are identical to the army’s M-1969 enlisted parade-walking out uniform.  The primary differences being the addition of the M-1971 'starburst' cockade and gold metal officer braiding to the enlisted visor cap, the white artificial leather parade belt, the silver aiguillette and honor guard shoulder boards with metal letters.

Quality of the uniform and accessories would vary depending on how prestigious the unit was.  Members of the 1^st Separate Honor Guard Company would often be seen with embroidered shoulder patches, while typical army honor guards used the standard plastic type. 

Badges and medals were authorized to be worn with this uniform, which consists of: the M-1969 enlisted jacket and trousers, the M-1969 enlisted visor cap, artificial leather boots, white parade belt and gloves, brass enlisted buckle, and the M-1966 green shirt and tie.

The cap band, shoulder boards, and collar tab backings would all be red no matter what branch of the army the soldier was a part of.  No black versions for armor or support troops were issued.  Short aluminum rank 'stripes' could also be issued to corporals and sergeants to reflect their rank on the honor guard shoulder boards.

This uniform was authorized for wear by selected army sergeants, soldiers, and cadets performing special duties.  It was never a casual daily uniform.  Often seen at anniversary parades, special holidays, and for welcoming visiting foreign dignitaries.  Local units would also use them during change of command ceremonies and guarding monuments.  A red and gold sash could be worn with the uniform when its members were part of a color guard.

It is widely thought that the uniform influenced the design of the M-1973 summer enlisted parade uniform issued two years later.