Code of an officer of the Russian Empire. Code of honor of a Russian officer in the tsarist army. VII. In training with soldiers

In all periods without exception, the strength of Russian troops was based on spiritual principles. For this reason, it is not at all surprising that almost all generally accepted norms of morality, and in addition the concepts of officer honor and dignity, became enshrined in statutes, recommendations, and orders. At the present time, the legislation regulating the tasks of organizing the defense of the state, military service, the legal status of the military and other tasks related to military service has been updated.

In Tsarist Russia, reputation was the main concept. There were also tips on how to protect your honor. They are still important today.

The Code of Honor of the Russian officer was drawn up in 1804 and contained 26 of the most significant points:

Don't make promises unless you're sure you'll keep your promise.

Conduct yourself simply, with dignity, without foppishness.

It is necessary to remember the line where dignified politeness ends and servility begins.

Do not write rash letters and reports in the heat of the moment.

Be less frank - you will regret it. Remember: my tongue is my enemy.

Don't play around - you can't prove your valor, but you'll compromise yourself.

Don’t rush to get on friendly terms with a person you haven’t gotten to know well enough.

Avoid money accounts with your friends. Money always spoils relationships.

Do not take offensive remarks, witticisms, or ridicule said after you personally. which often happens on the streets and in public places.

If you can’t say anything good about someone, then refrain from saying anything bad.

Don't ignore anyone's advice - listen. The right, whether to follow it or not, remains with you.

The strength of an officer does not lie in impulses, but in unshakable calm.

Take care of the reputation of the woman who trusted you, no matter who she is.

There are situations in life when you need to silence your heart and live with your mind.

A secret that you tell to at least one person ceases to be a secret.

Always be alert and don't let yourself go.

It is not customary for officers to dance at public masquerades.

Try to keep your words soft and your arguments firm in a dispute.

When speaking, avoid gesticulation and do not raise your voice.

If you have entered a society in whose midst there is a person with whom you are in a quarrel, then when greeting everyone, it is customary to shake hands with him, of course, if this cannot be avoided. Without paying attention to those present or the hosts. Giving a hand does not give rise to unnecessary conversations, and does not oblige you to anything.

Nothing teaches you more than realizing your mistake. This is one of the main means of self-education.

When two people quarrel, both are always to blame.

There is nothing worse than indecision. A worse decision is better than hesitation or inaction.

The one who fears nothing is more powerful than the one whom everyone fears.

Soul - to God, heart - to a woman, duty - to the Fatherland, honor - to no one!

Be interesting with

In the Russian Empire, the title “Russian officer” was not just a designation of professional or social affiliation. The title “officer” meant belonging to a special caste of people for whom honor and dignity were more valuable than life. They fought for honor and died for it. During the Russo-Japanese War of 1904, captain Valentin Kulchitsky wrote “Advice to a Young Officer,” which, in fact, became the code of honor of a Russian officer. The book also includes: “The Duel Code” by V. Durasov, equally fair for both civilians and military personnel, and A. S. Pushkin’s story “The Shot”, as the most striking illustration of both officer honor and dueling history. For a duel is “the last argument for preserving honor.”

• Captain V. Kulchitsky. Advice for a young officer

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The given introductory fragment of the book Code of Honor of the Russian Officer (collection) (A. S. Pushkin, 20156) provided by our book partner - the company liters.

© Publication. Decor. LLC Group of Companies "RIPOL Classic", 2016

Captain V. Kulchitsky

Advice for a young officer

Preface to the 1916 edition

“Advice to a Young Officer,” published in its third edition, is now even more necessary and useful due to wartime. The accelerated graduation of young people as officers does not give them the opportunity and time to learn in schools all the subtleties of tradition, the correct view of the essence of military education and discipline.

The young officer will have to work on himself independently. It is for this work that real leadership will provide invaluable services to every officer. It will give him useful advice and directions on many issues of the upcoming service. The laconic presentation of individual aphorisms guarantees quick memorization and the ability to find the necessary help at any time. If we take into account that peacetime offenses become crimes during wartime and are punished especially severely, then the value of the advice collected here in a concise form will become even more obvious. They enable the officer to avoid many mistakes, to understand what is legal and what is criminal, to understand everything that is required of him in order to be a good officer who does not lose his dignity.

These tips are equally useful for those in the front lines and in the rear of the army, where they often have to deal with people of dubious professions and behavior.

This handbook will save young officers from many mistakes and blunders in the service and in private life. An officer who has not yet become accustomed to his new position, which is based on conventions, restraint and military tact, is often lost and does not know how he should act in certain cases not provided for by the regulations. And as a result of ignorance of the laws in general (at least the important law for the military on protecting one’s honor with weapons), irreparable mistakes occur, forcing the officer to leave the regiment or end up on trial.

We repeat that here we briefly outline those everyday rules that, undoubtedly, will only bring benefit to every officer in the upcoming service. These original aphorisms force the officer to think seriously about military service on its merits, and not judge it superficially, by its external form and saber-rattling.

The officer will not find these councils in any charters.

The purpose of this unique work is the desire to prevent inexperienced military youth from taking a false, disastrous step. Here are collected old but eternal truths that are forgotten by most and unknown to young officers.

The third edition of this handbook speaks for itself.

V. M. Kulchitsky “Discipline comes first.”

I. The basis and essence of military service

Believe in God, be devoted to the Sovereign Emperor, His Family and love your Motherland.

The first and main duty of a soldier is loyalty to the Emperor and the Fatherland. Without this quality, he is unfit for military service. The integrity of the Empire and the maintenance of its prestige are based on the strength of the army and navy; their qualities and shortcomings resonate throughout the country, so it’s not your place to get involved in social issues and political speculation; your job is to steadily fulfill your duties.

Put above all else the glory of the Russian army.

Be brave. But courage can be true and feigned. The arrogance characteristic of youth is not courage. A military man must always be prudent and consider his actions calmly and carefully. If you are low and arrogant, everyone will hate you.

Obey discipline.

Dragoon officer from the Napoleonic Wars. 1800–1815

Respect and trust your superiors.

Be afraid of breaking your duty - you will forever lose your good name.

An officer must be faithful and truthful. Without these qualities, it is almost impossible for a military man to remain in the army. Faithful - a person who fulfills his duty; truthful - if he does not change his word. Therefore, never promise if you are not sure that you will fulfill your promise.

Be polite and modest in your dealings with all people.

The best part of courage is caution.

II. Arrival at the regiment

Arriving at the regiment, the officer acts in accordance with the Constitution. garn. sl. Art. 400 and 401, i.e. appears to the regiment commander. In practice, they do this: arriving at the office at about 11 o’clock, the officer introduces himself and gets acquainted first of all with the regimental adjutant, who gives all the necessary advice and instructions, since each regiment has its own customs and traditions. If an officer appears at the apartment of the regiment commander, then, if you do not find him at home, you should appear a second time, trying to catch him: it is not recommended to sign or leave a service card for the first time. Report for duty to the commander of the company (hundred, squadron, battery) to which the appointment took place. Having taken a list with the addresses of Messrs. from the senior clerk in the office. officers and noting the married ones, make visits to everyone without delay. It is recommended to have time to do them all at once, in one day. The dress code is formal. The rest of the time: on all official occasions, visits, congratulations - ordinary, unless given in the order for the regiment to be in a different position. If you don't find your elder at home, leave your service ID (not a business card). For married people - an official ID and a business card. Before being introduced to the regiment commander and without having yet reported to the regiment, appearing in public places (theaters, gardens, concerts, evenings) is considered tactless. Upon arrival at the regiment, the first impression is of serious importance.

Having not yet arrived at the regiment and being on leave, if you meet an officer of your regiment (in the same city), you should definitely approach him and introduce yourself first, and report to the regiment commander.

III. Relationships with superiors and yourself

Always remember that you are an officer.

Be formal with your superiors.

Remember that the boss is always and everywhere the boss.

Never criticize the actions and actions of your superiors in general; with someone especially, and God forbid - with the lower ranks.

Any order from a superior, no matter in what form it is expressed (suggestion, request, advice), is an order (Decision of the Chief Military Court of 1881 No. 183).

If you are senior in rank, and according to the distribution of positions you will be subordinate to a junior, you are obliged to carry out all the orders of the person placed above you, without any argument (St. Military. P., VII ed. 2.20).

If you come on vacation for three days or less, then, without appearing in person, you must certainly send your vacation ticket to the commandant. control.

If you arrive for more than three days, you must appear in person to the commandant.

At the end of the vacation period, he is obliged to appear again at the commandant’s office or inform the commandant’s office in an open letter: “On this date I left for the place of my service” (signature).

“Whoever wants to be able to command must be able to obey!” - said Napoleon.

Take care of your honor, the honor of the regiment and the army.

Dress strictly in uniform and always clean.

Be strict about your job responsibilities (Disc. Ord. § 1).

Conduct yourself simply, with dignity, without foppishness.

Cossack and officer. 1812

Be self-possessed (correct) and tactful always, with everyone and everywhere.

Be courteous and helpful, but not intrusive or flattering. Know how to leave on time so as not to be superfluous.

It is necessary to remember the line where dignified politeness ends and servility begins.

Make yourself talk less.

Be observant and careful in your expressions.

Do not write rash letters and reports in the heat of the moment.

Be less frank in general - you will regret it. Remember: “My tongue is my enemy.”

Don’t play around - you won’t prove your daring, but you will compromise yourself. Forget the “good old days” and the expression: “A bad officer who doesn’t drink.” Now it’s different: “A bad officer who drinks”... and “such” an officer is not kept in the regiment.

Don’t rush to get on friendly terms with a person you haven’t gotten to know well enough.

Avoid “you”, which gives a reason and the right to familiarity in bad taste (amicoshonism), an excuse to scold you on the grounds of friendship, interfere in your affairs, say vulgarity, rudeness, etc.

Often the older one, having become tipsy, offers to be the first to get on first-name terms with him. Nevertheless, the next day, be diplomatic: either speak to him on “you”, or wait until he is the first to address you on “you”. In short, tact is a necessary condition to avoid getting into an awkward position and getting into trouble.

Avoid stories and scandals. Do not act as an uninvited witness: by supporting one, you will make an enemy in the other: a double-edged sword. Neutrality is a means even for great powers to maintain good relations with everyone.

A person who makes enemies, no matter how smart, kind, honest and truthful he is, dies almost inevitably, since our enemies in society are always active; friends are always passive - they only sympathize, regret, sigh, but do not fight for the dying, fearing for their own fate.

Life Guards Cossack Regiment. Cossacks in Paris in 1814

Avoid money accounts with your friends. Money always spoils relationships.

“If you can, help a friend financially, but avoid taking it personally, because it lowers your dignity.”

Don't make debts, don't dig holes for yourself. Live within your means. Drop false pride. It is immoral to make debts without being able to pay them, otherwise, don’t get into someone else’s pocket... In a word: “Stretch your legs by clothes.”

Don’t indulge at someone else’s expense without having the means to repay in kind, if you don’t want your dignity and self-esteem to suffer. Remember the French proverb: “It is better to drink bad wine from your own small glass than good wine from someone else’s large glass.”

Live alone - it’s calmer. Living together with a friend ultimately leads to a breakup.

Do not take personally offensive remarks, witticisms, or ridicule said after you, which often happens on the streets and in public places. Be above it. Leave - you won’t lose, but you’ll get rid of the scandal.

Think about every decisive step. It is impossible to correct a mistake, but it is difficult to make amends. “Measure seven times, cut once.”

“Be more considerate before a quarrel than compliant after a quarrel.”

At a critical moment, friends will not help: in military service they are powerless, bound by discipline and obedience to their superiors.

If you can’t say anything good about someone, then refrain from saying bad things, even if you do.

Don't ignore anyone's advice - listen. The right to follow it or not will remain yours.

To be able to take good advice from another is no less an art than to give good advice to yourself.

Avoid talking about military topics with anyone outside of duty, especially in wartime.

Cossacks in Paris in 1814

Be careful in choosing your acquaintances; be guided not only by their education, but also by their social position in society. “Tell me who you know and what you read, and I’ll tell you who you are.”

In front of orderlies (in general, in front of servants), refrain from talking about sensitive topics. This habit is necessary firmly root it in yourself and always remember it. Unfortunately, most people forget this. Meanwhile, the servants listen especially sensitively and look closely at the lives of their masters, take everything into account and often spread absurd gossip to the houses of their acquaintances (through the servants).

The person using the orderly must monitor his health, behavior and must not allow him to be treated illegally; giving orderlies to serve another person is absolutely prohibited.

Responsibility for failure to comply with the orderly's dress code and his behavior falls on the officer under whom the orderly works.

Do not use the services of someone else's orderly without prior permission, do not order anything - it is tactless.

After graduating from college, continue studying. Knowledge of the art of war is your strength. In battles there is no time to learn, but you have to apply what you have learned. Don't lose sight of the fact that you need to know all types of weapons.

In all cases of his life and service, the officer submits a written report: on arrival in the regiment, on departure on a business trip, leave and return from such, on taking up or surrendering a position, on illness and recovery, on collisions and incidents in or outside of service , about any petitions, etc.

Reports are written concisely, to the point and without naming the boss.

The signature of an officer, no matter what his rank, must always be legible and without any flourishes.

Military officials are governed by the same rules as officers.

Carabinieri officer of the Russian Imperial Guard. 1815

IV. Old truths

Firmness of will and fearlessness are two qualities necessary for a military man.

An officer needs to stand out for his moral qualities, on which the personal greatness of a fighter is based, since he is associated with charm over the masses, which is so necessary for a leader.

The strength of an officer does not lie in impulses, but in inviolable calm.

Honor tempers courage and ennobles courage.

Honor is the shrine of an officer.

An officer must respect the human rights of his fellow officer - the lower rank.

A boss who does not spare the pride of his subordinates suppresses their noble desire to become famous and thereby weakens their moral strength.

All age classes of the population pass through the ranks of the army, the influence of the officer corps extends to all the people.

Woe to the country if, upon leaving service, a soldier is disgusted by the ranks of the soldiers.

Do not present as irrefutable truth something that you either do not believe at all, or at least doubt. To do so is a crime.

It is necessary that not only the formal side of the service flourish, but also the moral one.

The army is an oak tree that protects the Motherland from storms.

V. Rules of life

Don't court the regimental ladies (in the vulgar sense). Don’t stir up dirt in your regimental family, in which you will have to serve for decades. Such novels always end tragically.

Never express opinions about women. Remember - women have always been the cause of discord and the greatest misfortunes not only of individuals, but also of entire empires.

Take care of the reputation of the woman who trusted you, no matter who she is. A decent person in general, especially an officer, never talks about such things even in the intimate circle of his trusted and trusted friends, because a woman is always most afraid of publicity.

There are situations in life when you need to silence your heart and live with your mind.

In your intimate life, be very, very careful - “the regiment is your supreme judge.”

Any unseemly actions of an officer are discussed by the regimental court of honor.

Officer of the Cossack Don Army of the Imperial Guard of Russia. 1815

There is no need to talk about service and affairs in society.

Keep an entrusted secret or secret, even of a non-official nature. A secret communicated by you to at least one person ceases to be a secret.

Do not cross the line of conventions developed by the traditions of the regiment and life.

Be guided in life by instinct, a sense of justice and a duty of decency.

Know how to not only think and reason, but also be silent in time and hear everything.

In military service, do not show pride in small things, otherwise you will always suffer because of it.

Always be alert and don't let yourself go.

Although military personnel are allowed to engage in literary activities, they do not have the right to sign their articles indicating their rank and position (Circus. Gl. Sht. 1908 No. 61).

Military personnel for publishing are subject not only to the general criminal procedure, but can also be brought before the court of the society of officers, and those who are not subject to this court are subject to disciplinary liability, including up to and including disciplinary dismissal from service ( Prik. according to Military Ved. 1908 No. 310)

To catch other people lying means harming yourself and them.

Try to keep your words soft and your arguments firm in a dispute. Try not to annoy your opponent, but to convince him.

It is not customary for officers to dance at public masquerades.

When entering a public place, be careful; if the public there is without an outer dress or cap, then you need to do the same.

If you want to smoke, ask the ladies for permission, or better yet, wait until either the mistress of the house or the elder (depending on where and when) offers it to you.

Everyone has their own shortcomings: no one can do without the help of others, and therefore we must help each other with advice and mutual warnings.

When speaking, avoid gesturing and raising your voice.

If you have entered a society in whose midst there is a person with whom you are in a quarrel, then, when greeting everyone, it is customary to shake hands with him, of course, if this cannot be avoided without drawing the attention of those present or the hosts. Giving a hand does not give rise to unnecessary conversations, and does not oblige you to anything.

According to the Most Highly Expressed Will, it is necessary for an officer to salute, when meeting on the streets, chief officers of all branches of arms, regardless of their rank and without waiting for a greeting from them first.

Chief officers are required to give the established honor to staff officers (lieutenant colonels, colonels) and generals. When entering them, if the officer was sitting, it is necessary to stand up and bow, and not barely stand up or continue to sit.

Officer of the Russian Imperial Guard. 1815

It is indecent to give and receive honor casually (also for lower ranks) with the left hand (except for the wounded) or with a cigarette in the mouth, nod your head, or keep your left hand in your pocket when giving honor.

The cap must be worn according to the regulations, and the overcoat must always be fastened with all buttons.

Needless to say, an officer must obey in public places all the rules that exist for the public.

In general, an officer’s behavior should pay attention to those around him through his correctness and prudence.

VI. On duty

Don't let mistakes and false tricks bother you. Nothing teaches you more than realizing your mistake. This is one of the main means of self-education.

Only those who do nothing make no mistakes.

Spare the pride of the soldiers. Among ordinary people it is no less developed than among us, and, due to their subordination, it is more sensitive.

The soldiers are not silent sheep, but merciless judges who came from different parts of boundless Russia, taking back everything they experienced in the service: gratitude and embitterment, respect and contempt, love and hatred. The silence of the soldiers is constrained by stern and iron discipline, and does not stem from a lack of development. They know how to value justice and humanity.

It is against the law to hit a soldier.

Adjutant General Dragomirov said: “Adjust the stance without touching. When corrected with words, the soldier will correct himself, but if he sculpts with his hands, he will forget what the mistake was, because it did not reach his consciousness.”

Even a horse loves to be told, but it is not at all proper to teach a person like a dumb creature.

During classes, be always cheerful, always even and calm, demanding and fair.

You should not “flirt” with a soldier - you will undermine your authority.

It is important that your subordinates respect you, not fear you. Where there is fear, there is no love, but there is hidden ill will or hatred.

Be truthful always, and especially with a soldier. Fulfill what you promise to him, otherwise you will teach him to lie.

Truthfulness everywhere, and especially in education, is the main condition.

Never touch a drunk. If a soldier is drunk, personally never take repressive measures, so as not to be subjected to insult and protest, often unconscious. Order the drunken man to be taken by the same lower ranks as him (but not by the non-commissioned officer - for the same reasons), and if they are not there, by the police. By this you save a drunken person from the crime of insulting an officer (non-commissioned officer).

When arresting those who are intoxicated, it is prohibited to enter into any personal explanations with the offender.

In difficult moments, tone means a lot, because what to do is in the sense of an order, and what to do is in tone.

There is nothing worse than indecision. A worse decision is better than hesitation or inaction. You can't get back a lost moment.

Respect the laws and teach them to respect by example.

Do not object and do not enter into disputes regarding service with a senior in rank.

Be careful with government property and money entrusted to you in your service. No matter how much you need money, never borrow from it. Any shortcoming is a waste. The responsibility is great.

Imperial Guard officer. 1815

VII. In training with soldiers

The dull monotony of training does not develop the soldier, but kills the spirit.

When a soldier goes home, he carries with him the imprint of those commanders who led him.

An officer should know first of all with whom he is dealing. Representatives of all nationalities of Russia gather in the barracks or in the trenches. Their beliefs, views, character, moral character are different. Think about these first hours of soldier's service. Encourage this adult child.

Say a few good, warm words from your heart to the recruit. Don't tell him anything about the service in the first days. Don't scare him. Do this wisely, and you will conquer him: he is yours.

Woe to you if the new recruit is distrustful and sees in his boss only a strict formal servant, capable only of punishing.

An officer must gain trust in many ways. One of them is literacy, the Russian alphabet.

Literacy is power, the most powerful means capable of destroying any false political views with which a recruit may come to the barracks.

Don’t forget the soldier’s kitchen, because “through a soldier’s stomach goes the way to his heart.”

Don't resort to harmful sentimentalism.

The soldier loves to be talked to.

An officer is the older brother of a soldier.

Brother, but not familiar, otherwise discipline is in danger.

By this you mean reasonable, strict, but humane command, devoid of arrogance and cruelty.

Senior officer of the Imperial Guard. 1815

For military educational work, one of the means is frequent communication with lower ranks, conversations.

Arrange things so that the hours of “literature” for the soldiers are a pleasant and useful rest.

If you go to literature, study a little at home, draw up a summary of the conversation and a plan on a piece of paper.

Don't get carried away with lectures. Important condition: short duration of reading: 1/2 – 3/4 hours! Experience has proven that listening for a long time is difficult, people get tired and fall asleep.

Reading should be interrupted; move on to conversations, to jokes - they are useful: when laughing, the brain rests and will be functional again.

Tell us a little at a time: one or two thoughts.

For example, resort to showing.

A good example is always better than a rule.

Create a soldier in spirit, not in form.

Games are the most important part of physical education; they strengthen the spirit and heal the body. Love the soldier.

VIII. About the court of honor

Do not forget that in order to preserve the dignity of military service, officers who are noticed in disapproving behavior or actions incompatible with the concepts of military honor and valor of the officer rank or exposing the officer’s lack of rules of morality and nobility are subject to trial by the society of officers. This court is also given the right to examine quarrels that occur between officers.

The court of honor is conducted behind closed doors. The consideration of the case in the court of honor and the decision of the verdict takes no more than 24 hours. The verdict of the court of honor on the merits of the case does not rely on complaints. The court of honor is a regimental secret; anyone who divulges it is subject to a court of honor.

Among the actions examined in the regimental court of honor may be: a fight between officers, borrowing money from lower ranks, playing cards and billiards with lower ranks, bringing persons of questionable behavior to the officers' meeting, writing anonymous letters, dishonest play in cards, refusal to pay a gambling debt, ambiguous courtship of a regiment comrade’s wife, appearing in a public place drunk or indecent, etc.

Duels are allowed only by order or permission of the regimental court of honor. Duels are prohibited in wartime.

Hussar. 1818

IX. Responsibilities of the Chief

The boss must develop and maintain in his subordinates the consciousness of the holiness of the oath and the high importance of a warrior called to defend the Faith, the Tsar and the Fatherland from external and internal enemies, and be an example for them in the performance of duty and service.

Be fair, even, persistent in your demands, setting an example of cheerfulness, impeccable behavior, strict fulfillment of all requirements of the law and orders of superiors.

Unquestioning obedience to your superior is the soul of military service and the key to success in battle.

Take care of preserving the health of your subordinates, delve into their life and needs, be their adviser, leader and intercessor for them before their superiors, take care of their well-being, be benevolent.

A junior in rank does not make comments to anyone in the presence of a senior.

It is prohibited by law to borrow money from lower ranks.

If necessary, you should always contact your immediate superior. With the permission of this latter, you can contact the next boss in command.

When present at reviews and exercises, one should not wear an overcoat or cape if the boss and senior are not wearing them.

It is prohibited to remove your headdress for greeting.

When giving an order, be guided by the following:

a) the order must be expedient;

b) conveniently executable for the person receiving the order;

c) give the order firmly, clearly and definitely;

d) be sure to make him repeat the order you gave to make sure it is understandable. If the soldier cannot repeat it, then do not be angry, but calmly explain it to him again until he understands.

You should not enter the premises of another company (manege, stables) without the knowledge of the commander or officer of this company; only the officer on duty for the unit is obliged to be everywhere, without reporting to anyone, during the day or night, being the responsible person for the well-being of the unit.

Refrain from doing anything or even directly ordering people other than their superiors, to whom they are subordinate.

In the ranks, do not rush to correct mistakes yourself and do not command other than those to whom it belongs.

In case of any kind of mistakes and shortcomings on the part of people, where there is only evil will, take on the individual and the platoon leader first of all. The soldier knows his job - find out who taught him; reward or punish first of all this latter as responsible for it.

In a word, strictly observe the chain of command, which exists only to ensure order. Never skip its steps, no matter how modest they may be, because this will show the supposed uselessness of bosses as such.

Anything that contributes to the development of camaraderie and the fusion of squads and platoons into one whole should be encouraged in every possible way; Anything that prevents this should be immediately eliminated.

X. Wartime information

When going to positions, do not take unnecessary things - you will have to throw them away.

It is useful to stock up on a Swedish leather jacket: it provides warmth and protects against dampness in winter and summer.

It is necessary to have a first aid kit, insect repellent and Persian (Dalmatian) powder.

In the trenches, during the free period of calm, engage in service and entertainment with the soldiers.

During wartime, outside of duty, completely avoid conversations on military topics and do not express your assumptions or information to anyone.

In wartime, unauthorized absence, even for one day, is considered an escape.

Officer of the Life Guards of the Jaeger Regiment. Alexander Orlovsky. 1823–1825

In wartime, espionage is highly developed, so you need to be careful.

Enemy spies (male and female) wear different uniforms. Women often appear under the guise of nurses or refugees.

XI. About protecting honor with weapons

Always have the appropriate weapon with you.

Weapons are the pride of a soldier.

Be careful with it; respect him; don't joke with him.

Always know how to wield a weapon - don’t draw it in vain! This is an act of bad taste, boyishness or civilian manners.

If circumstances force one to resort to force of arms, there should be no half measures.

The highest gift after strength is the ability to control oneself.

Think ahead about those cases when you have to resort to weapons in private life, so that difficult moments do not take you by surprise. The step to resort to weapons is a serious one, affecting service and changing fate, often irrevocably. When resorting to weapons, remember to evaluate public opinion... Even for just drawing a weapon and making a threat, you will be punished in court.

Russian officer. 1825–1830

The use of weapons in peacetime, caused by extreme circumstances, must correspond to military dignity and valor, guarding which every soldier must remember that everything is in vain, not necessary and contrary to the law action by force against civilians casts a dark shadow on the army and entails strict liability before the court.

XII. When is defense with weapons allowed?

Defense is permitted by laws to protect:

b) health;

c) freedom;

d) female honor and chastity;

e) home - in case of violent invasion;

f) property (robbery) or when a criminal, caught stealing or damaging property, forcibly resists his arrest or the taking of the stolen property.

Therefore, for example, killing a thief before he has offered any resistance or attack, does not fit the concept of defense and is punishable as simple murder (Dec. U.K. D-ta Govt. Senate 1874 No. 172).

Defense is allowed only in the event of an actual attack, already expressed in some threatening actions. The mere alleged or imaginary intention to carry out an attack, not expressed in any actions, cannot be considered a condition for necessary defense.

Defense is permitted to protect not only oneself, but also other persons in danger.

Defense is permitted only in the event of an unlawful attack. Therefore, it is impossible to defend against persons who commit, although violent, but legal actions, for example. from police officers or patrol officers who, on duty, detain persons causing disorder. This will no longer be defense, but resistance to authorities (106 and 107 art. XXII book, St. V.P. 270 art. St. about the order, etc.).

In defense, the use of force and any measures are allowed, and therefore, if necessary, the use of weapons.

Defense is allowed only to the extent really necessary to repel an attack. Therefore, any harm caused to the attacker in vain, after the danger has already been averted, is recognized as an abuse of defense and the perpetrator is subject to punishment, depending on the circumstances, from a reprimand to eight months of imprisonment (replaced, of course, for military personnel with the corresponding military punishment).

Defense against a superior is not allowed at all, except in the case where the superior’s actions threaten a subordinate with obvious danger, but even in this case it must be limited to defense to the extent necessary for personal self-preservation. Therefore, for example, beatings inflicted by a superior on a subordinate do not give the latter the right to defense, unless they threaten him with obvious danger (Decisions of the General V. Court of 1871 No. 38; 1873 No. 227; 1887 No. 15).

If all the above conditions are met, the person defending himself from the attack is not liable for his actions, even if their consequences were to cause wounds, injury or even death to the attacker.

A fight cannot be subsumed under the concept of necessary defense. Using a weapon in a fight exposes the perpetrator to liability under the law. (St. on punishment, art. 1465–1485).

An officer's code of honor that will be useful to any man. Here are collected old but eternal truths from the way of life of the officers of pre-revolutionary Russia, which are forgotten by the majority and unknown to the young.

“Advice to a young officer” is equally useful for those in the front lines and in the rear of the army. Their goal is the desire to prevent inexperienced military youth from taking a false, disastrous step. Here are collected old but eternal truths that are forgotten by most and unknown to young officers.” V. M. Kulchitsky

I. The basis and essence of military service

1. Believe in God, be devoted to the Sovereign Emperor, His family and love your Motherland.
The first and main duty of a soldier is loyalty to the Sovereign Emperor and the Fatherland. Without this quality he is not fit for military service. The integrity of the empire and the maintenance of its prestige are based on the strength of the army and navy; their qualities and shortcomings resonate throughout the country; therefore, it is not your business to get involved in social issues and political speculations; your job is to steadily fulfill yours. responsibilities.
2. Put above all else the glory of the Russian Army.
3. Be brave. But courage can be true and feigned. The arrogance characteristic of youth is not courage. A military man must always be prudent and consider his actions calmly and carefully. If you are low and arrogant, everyone will hate you.
4. Obey discipline.
5. Respect and trust your superiors.
6. Be afraid of breaking your duty - this will forever cause you to lose your good name.
7. An officer must be faithful and truthful. Without these qualities, it is almost impossible for a military man to remain in the army. Faithful - a person who fulfills his duty, truthful - if he does not:
betrays his word. Therefore, never promise if you are not sure that you will fulfill your promise.
8. Be polite and modest in your dealings with all people.
9. The best part of courage is caution.

II. Arrival at the regiment

Arriving at the regiment, the officer acts in accordance with the Constitution. garn. cl. 400 and 401, that is, it appears to the regiment commander. In practice, they do this: arriving at the office at about 11 o’clock, the officer introduces himself and gets acquainted first of all with the regimental adjutant, who gives all the necessary advice and instructions, since each regiment has its own customs (traditions). If an officer appears at the apartment of the regiment commander, then, if you do not find him at home, you should appear a second time, trying to catch him: it is not recommended to sign or leave a service card for the first time.

Report for duty to the commander of the company (hundred, squadron, battery) to which the appointment took place. Having taken a list with the addresses of Messrs. from the senior clerk in the office. officers and, noting the married ones, make visits to everyone without delaying them. It is recommended to have time to do them all in one day. Dress uniform is ceremonial. The rest of the time: on all official occasions, visits, congratulations - ordinary, unless given in the order for the regiment to be in a different position. If you don’t find your elder at home, leave a service ID (not a business card). For married people - an official ID and a business card. Before being presented to the regiment commander and not yet reporting to the regiment, you should not appear in public places (theaters, gardens, concerts, evenings); considered tactless. Upon arrival at the regiment, the first impression is of serious importance.
Having not yet arrived at the regiment and being on leave, you will meet an officer of your regiment (in the same city), you should definitely go to him and introduce yourself first, and report to the regiment commander.

III. Attitude towards superiors and yourself

1. Always remember that you are an officer.
2. Be formal with your superiors,
3. Remember that the boss is always and everywhere the boss.
4. Never criticize the actions and actions of your boss in general; with anyone - especially, and God forbid with the lower ranks.
5. Every order of a superior, no matter in what form it is expressed (suggestion, request, advice) is an order.
6. If you are senior in rank, and according to the distribution of positions you will be subordinate to a junior, you are obliged to carry out everything the orders of the person placed over you, without any argument.
7. If you come on vacation for three days or less, then, without appearing in person, you must certainly send your vacation ticket to the commandant’s office. Having arrived for more than three days, you must appear in person to the commandant.
8. At the end of the vacation period, he is obliged to appear again at the Commandant’s Department or inform the Commandant’s Department in an open letter: “On this date I left for the place of my service” (Signature).
9. “Whoever wants to be able to command must be able to obey!” - said Napoleon.
10. Take care of your honor, the honor of the regiment and the army.
11. Dress strictly in uniform and always clean.
12. Be strict about your official duties.. (Disc. Ordinance § 1).
13. Conduct yourself simply, with dignity, without foppishness.
14. Be self-possessed (correct) and tactful always, with everyone and everywhere.
15. Be polite and helpful, but not intrusive and flattering. Know how to leave on time so as not to be superfluous..
16. It is necessary to remember the boundary where dignified politeness ends and where sycophancy begins.
17. Make people talk less about themselves.
18. Be observant and careful in your expressions.
19. Do not write rash letters and reports in the heat of the moment.
20. Be less frank in general, you will regret it. Remember: “My tongue is my enemy.”
21. Don’t play around - you won’t prove your daring, but you will compromise yourself. Forget the “good old days” and the expression “A bad officer who doesn’t drink.” Now it’s different: “A bad officer who drinks,” and “Such an officer cannot be kept in the regiment.”
22. Don’t rush to get on friendly terms with a person you haven’t gotten to know enough.
23. Avoid “you”, which gives reason and the right to familiarity in bad taste, an excuse to scold you on the grounds of friendship, interfere in your affairs, say vulgarity, rudeness, etc.
24. Often the elder, having become tipsy, offers to ‘go with him’. no misters". However, the next day be diplomatic:
either speak to him on “you”, or wait until he is the first to address you on “you”. In a word, tact is a necessary condition in order not to get into an awkward position or get into trouble.
25. Avoid stories and scandals. Do not act as an uninvited witness: by supporting one, you will make an enemy in the other - a double-edged sword. Neutrality is a remedy even for great powers; a means to maintain good relations with everyone,
26. A person who makes enemies, no matter how smart, kind, honest and truthful he is, dies almost inevitably, since enemies in society are always active, while friends are passive; they only sympathize, regret, sigh, but do not fight for the dying, fearing for their own fate,
27. Avoid money accounts with friends. Money always spoils relationships.
28. Do not make debts: do not dig holes for yourself. Live within your means. Drop false pride. It is immoral to incur debts without being able to pay them; otherwise, don’t get into someone else’s pocket...
29. If you can, help your friend financially, but avoid taking it personally, as it lowers your dignity.
30. Don’t indulge at someone else’s expense without having the means to repay in kind, if you don’t want your dignity and self-esteem to suffer. Remember the French proverb: “It is better to drink bad wine from your own small glass than good wine from someone else’s large glass.”
31. Live alone - it’s calmer. Living together with a friend ultimately leads to squabbles, even breakup.
32. Do not take personally offensive remarks or witty ridicule said after you, which often happens on the streets and in public places. Be above it. Leave - you won’t lose, but you’ll get rid of the scandal.
33. Think about every decisive step. It is impossible to correct a mistake, but it is difficult to make amends. “Measure seven times, cut once.”
34. Be more considerate before a quarrel than compliant after a quarrel.
35. At a critical moment, friends will not help: in military service they are powerless, bound by discipline and obedience to their superiors.
36. If you can’t say anything good about someone, then refrain from saying anything bad, even if you know.
37. Don’t neglect anyone’s advice – listen. The right to follow it or not will remain with you.
38. Be able to take advantage of good advice from another -. there is no less art than giving good advice to yourself.
39. Avoid talking about military topics with anyone outside of duty, especially in wartime.
40. Be careful in choosing your acquaintances: be guided not only by their education, but also by their social position in society. “Tell me who you know, and I’ll tell you who you are.”
41. In front of orderlies (in general, in front of servants), refrain from talking about sensitive topics. This habit must be firmly eradicated from oneself and always remembered. Unfortunately, most people forget this. Meanwhile, the servants listen especially sensitively and look closely at the lives of their masters, take everything into account and often spread ridiculous rumors to the houses of friends (through the servants).
42. A person using an orderly must monitor his health and behavior and must not allow him to be treated illegally; giving orderlies to serve another person is certainly prohibited.
43. Responsibility for failure to comply with the orderly's uniform and behavior falls on the officer under whom the orderly works.
44. Do not use the services of someone else’s orderly without prior permission, do not order anything - this is not tactful.
45. After graduating from college, continue studying. Knowledge of the art of war is your strength. In battles there is no time to learn, but you have to apply what you have learned. Don't lose sight of the fact that you need to know all types of weapons.
46. ​​In all cases of his life and service, an officer submits a written report: on arrival in the regiment, on departure on a business trip, vacation and return from such, on taking up or surrendering a position, on illness and recovery, on collisions and incidents in the service or outside of it, about all sorts of petitions and so on.
47. Reports are written concisely, to the point and without naming the boss.
48. The signature of an officer, no matter what his rank, must always be legible and without any flourishes.
49. Military officials are governed by the same rules as officers.

IV. Old truths

1. Firmness of will and fearlessness are two qualities necessary for a military man.
2. An officer needs to stand out for his moral qualities, on which the personal behavior of a soldier is based, since he is associated with charm over the masses, which is so necessary for a leader.
3. The strength of an officer is not in impulses, but in unshakable calm.
4. Honor tempers courage and ennobles courage.
5. Honor is the shrine of an officer.
6. An officer must respect the human rights of his fellow officer - the lower rank.
7. A boss who does not spare the pride of his subordinates suppresses their noble desire to become famous and thereby weakens their moral strength.
8. All age classes of the population pass through the ranks of the army; the influence of the officer corps extends to the entire people.
9. Woe to the country if, upon leaving service, a soldier is disgusted by the ranks of the soldiers.
10. Do not present as irrefutable truth something that you either do not believe at all, or at least doubt. To do so is a crime.
11. It is necessary that not only the formal side of the service flourish, but also the moral one.
12. Maintaining an army is expensive. But the cost of the army is an insurance premium paid by the state to ensure its security and independence.
13. The army is an oak tree that protects the homeland from storms.

V. Rules of life

1. Don’t court the regimental ladies (in the vulgar sense). Don’t stir up dirt in your regimental family, in which you will have to serve for decades. Such novels always end tragically.
2. Never express opinions about women. Remember, women have always been the cause of discord and the greatest misfortunes not only of individuals, but also of entire empires.
3. Take care of the reputation of the woman who has trusted you, no matter who she is. A decent person in general, especially an officer, never talks about such things even in the intimate circle of his trusted and trusted friends - a woman is always most afraid of publicity.
4. There are situations in life when you need to silence your heart and live with your mind.
5. Be very, very careful in your intimate life. - “The regiment is your supreme judge.”
6. Any unseemly actions of an officer are discussed by the regimental court of honor.
7. You should not talk about service and affairs in society.
8. Keep an entrusted secret or secret, even of a non-official nature. A secret communicated by you to at least one person ceases to be a secret.
9. Do not cross the line of conventions developed by the traditions of the regiment and life.
10. Be guided in life by instinct, a sense of justice and a duty of decency.
11. Know how to not only think and reason, but also be silent in time and hear everything.
12. In military service, do not show pride in small things, otherwise you will always suffer because of it.
13. Always be alert and don’t let yourself go.
14. Although military personnel are allowed to engage in literary activities, they do not have the right to sign their articles indicating their rank and position (Circus. Gl. Sht. 1908 No. 61).
15. Military personnel for printing are subject not only to the general criminal procedure, but can also be brought to court in the society of officers, and those who are not subject to this court are subject to disciplinary liability, including up to and including dismissal from service in a disciplinary manner (Administrative Order on Military Vedas. 1908. No. 310).
16. To catch other people lying means harming yourself and them.
17. Try to keep your words soft and your arguments firm in a dispute. Try not to annoy your opponent, but to convince him.
18. It is not customary for officers to dance at public masquerades.
19. When entering a public place, be careful; if the public is there without any outer clothing or caps, then you must do the same.
20. If you want to smoke, ask permission, or better yet, wait until either the mistress of the house or the elder (depending on where and when) offers it to you.
21. Everyone has their own shortcomings: no one can do without the help of others, and therefore we must help each other with advice and mutual warnings.
22. When talking, avoid gesticulations and do not raise your voice.
23. If you enter a society in whose midst there is a person with whom you are in a quarrel, then, when greeting everyone, it is customary to shake hands with him, of course, if this cannot be avoided without drawing the attention of those present or the hosts. Giving a hand does not give rise to unnecessary conversations, and does not oblige you to anything.
24. According to the Most Highly Expressed Will, it is necessary for an officer to greet by saluting when meeting on the street chief officers of all branches of arms, regardless of the seniority of their rank and without waiting for a greeting from them first.
25. Chief officers are obliged to give the established amount to staff officers (lieutenant colonels, colonels) and generals. honor. When entering them, if the officer was sitting, it is necessary to stand and bow, and not barely stand up or continue to sit.
26. It is indecent to give and receive honors carelessly ((also from lower ranks) with the left hand (except for the wounded), or with a cigarette in the teeth, nod your head, keep your left hand in your pocket when giving honor. Walking arm in arm with a lady, an officer is not exempt from saluting according to the charter.
27. The cap must be worn according to the regulations, and the overcoat must always be fastened with all buttons.
28. Needless to say, an officer must obey in public places all the rules existing for the public.
29 In general, an officer’s behavior should draw attention to those around him through his correctness and prudence.

VI. On duty

1. Don't let mistakes and false techniques bother you. Nothing teaches you more than realizing your mistake. This is one of the main means of self-education. Only those who do nothing make no mistakes.
2. Spare the pride of the soldiers. Among ordinary people it is no less developed than among us and, due to their subordination, it is more sensitive.
3. The soldiers are not silent sheep, but merciless judges who came from different parts of boundless Russia, taking back everything they experienced in the service: gratitude and embitterment; respect and contempt; love and hate. The silence of the soldiers is constrained by stern and iron discipline, and does not stem from a lack of development. They know how to value justice and humanity.
4. Beating a soldier is prohibited by law.
5. Adjutant General Dragomirov said: “Adjust your stance without touching. When corrected with words, the soldier will correct himself, but if he sculpts with his hands, he will forget what the mistake was, because it did not reach his consciousness.”
6. Even a horse loves to be told, but teaching a person like a dumb creature is not at all proper.
7. During classes, be always cheerful, always even and calm, demanding and fair.
8. You should not “flirt” with a soldier. You will undermine your authority.
9. Authority is acquired by knowledge of business and service.
10. It is important that your subordinates respect you, not fear you. Where there is fear, there is no love, but hidden ill will or hatred.

11. Be truthful always and especially with a soldier. Fulfill what you promise to him, otherwise you will teach him to lie.
12. Truthfulness everywhere, and especially in education, is the main condition.
13. Never touch a drunk person. If a soldier is drunk, personally never take repressive measures, so as not to be subjected to insult and protest, often unconscious. Order the drunken man to be taken by the same lower ranks as him (but not by the non-commissioned officer for the same reasons), and if they are not there, by the police. By this you save a drunken person from the crime of insulting an officer or non-commissioned officer.
14. When arresting those who are intoxicated, it is prohibited to enter into any personal explanations with the troublemaker.
15. In difficult moments, tone means a lot: for what to do is in the sense of an order, and how to do it is in the tone.
16. There is nothing worse than indecision. A worse decision is better than hesitation or inaction. You can't get back a lost moment.
17. Respect the laws and teach them to respect by your example.
18. Do not object and do not enter into disputes regarding service with someone senior in rank.
19. Be careful with government property and money entrusted to you in your service. No matter how much you need money, never borrow from it. Any shortcoming is a waste. The responsibility is great.

VII. In training with soldiers

1. The dull monotony of training does not develop a soldier, but kills the spirit.
2. When a soldier goes home, he carries with him the imprint of those commanders who led him.
3. The officer should know, first of all, with whom he is dealing. Representatives of all nationalities of Russia gather in the barracks or trenches. Their beliefs, views, character, moral character are different. Think about these first hours of soldier's service. Encourage this adult child.
Say a few good, warm words from your heart to the recruit. Don't tell him anything about the service in the first days. Don't scare him. Do this wisely - and you have conquered him: he is yours.
4. Woe to you if the recruit is distrustful and sees in his boss only a strict, formal service officer capable of only punishing.
5. An officer must gain trust in various ways. One of them is literacy, the Russian alphabet.
6. Literacy is strength, the most powerful means that will destroy any false political view with which a recruit comes to the barracks.
7. Don’t forget the soldier’s kitchen, because “through a soldier’s stomach is the way to his heart.”
8. Do not resort to harmful sentimentalism.
9. The soldier loves to be talked to.
10. An officer is a soldier’s older brother.
11. Brother, but not familiar, otherwise discipline is in danger.
12. By this mean command that is reasonable, strict, but humane, devoid of arrogance and cruelty.
13. The authority died - all the military educational works of the chief also died.
14. For military educational work, one of the means is frequent communication with lower ranks, conversations.
15. Arrange things so that the hours of “literature” for the soldiers are a pleasant and useful rest.
16. If you go to literature, study a little at home, draw up a summary of the conversation and a plan on a piece of paper.
17. Don't get carried away with lectures. Important condition: short-term reading? -3/4 hours. Experience has shown that listening for a long time is difficult, people get tired and fall asleep.
18. Reading should be interrupted; move on to conversations, to jokes - they are useful, when laughing, the brain rests and will be functional again.
19. Communicate little by little: one or two thoughts.
20. Use example and demonstration.
21. A good example is always better than a rule.

VIII. About the court of honor

1. Do not forget that in order to preserve the dignity of military service, officers who are noticed in disapproving behavior or actions incompatible with the concepts of military honor and the valor of the officer rank or exposing the officer’s lack of rules of morality and nobility are subject to trial by the society of officers. This court is also given the right to examine quarrels that occur between officers.
2. The court of honor is conducted behind closed doors. It takes no more than 24 hours to consider the case in the court of honor and render a verdict. The verdict of the court of honor on the merits of the case does not rely on complaints. The court of honor is a regimental secret. Anyone who divulges it is subject to a court of honor.
3. Among the actions examined in the regimental court of honor may be: a fight between officers, borrowing money from lower ranks, playing cards and billiards with lower ranks, bringing persons of dubious behavior to the officers’ meeting, writing anonymous letters, dishonesty playing cards, refusing to pay a gambling debt, ambiguous courtship of a regiment comrade's wife, appearing in a public place drunk or indecent, etc.
4. Duels are allowed only by order or permission of the regimental court of honor. Duels are prohibited in wartime.

IX. Responsibilities of the Chief

1. The boss must develop and maintain in his subordinates the consciousness of the sanctity of the oath and the high importance of a warrior called to defend the Faith, the Tsar and the Fatherland from external and internal Enemies, and be an example for them in the performance of duty and service.
2. Be fair, even, persistent in your demands, setting an example of cheerfulness, impeccable behavior, strict fulfillment of all requirements of the law and orders of superiors.
3. Unquestioning obedience to the superior is the soul of military service and the key to success in battle.
4. Take care of maintaining the health of your subordinates, delve into their life and needs, be their adviser, leader and intercessor for them with their superiors, take care of their well-being, be benevolent.
5. A junior in rank notices no one in the presence of a senior. does not make any expectations.
6. It is prohibited by law to borrow money from lower ranks.
7. If necessary, you should always contact your immediate superior. With the permission of this latter, you can contact the next boss, on command.
8. When present at reviews and exercises, he should not be wearing an overcoat or cape if the boss and senior are not wearing them.
9. It is prohibited to remove your headdress for greeting.
10. When giving an order, be guided by the following:
a) the order must be expedient;
b) easily executable for the person receiving the order;
c) give the order firmly, clearly and definitely;
d) be sure to make him repeat the order you gave to make sure it is understandable. If the soldier cannot repeat it, then do not be angry, but calmly explain it to him again until he understands.
11. You should not enter the premises of another company (manege, stables) without the knowledge of the commander or officer of this company;
only the officer on duty for the unit is obliged to be everywhere, without reporting to anyone, during the day or night, being the responsible person for the well-being of the unit.
12. Refrain from doing anything or even ordering directly to people other than those superiors to whom they are subordinate.
13. In the ranks, do not rush to correct mistakes yourself and do not command other than those to whom it belongs.
14. In case of any kind of mistakes and shortcomings on the part of people, where there is only evil will, take on the individual and the platoon leader first of all. The soldier knows his job - find out who taught him; reward or punish first of all this latter, as responsible for it.
15. In a word, strictly observe the subordination, which exists only for this purpose, so that there is order. Never skip its steps, no matter how modest they may be, because this will show the supposed uselessness of your bosses. such.
16. Everything that contributes to the development of camaraderie and the fusion of squads and platoons into one whole should be encouraged in every possible way; However, anything that prevents this should be immediately eliminated.

X. When defense with weapons is permitted

1. Defense is permitted by laws to protect:

a) life;
b) health;
c) freedom;
d) female honor and chastity;
e) home in the event of a violent invasion;
e) property (robbery), or when caught in the act of kidnapping or. In case of damage to property, the criminal forcibly resists his arrest or the taking away of the stolen property.
Therefore, for example, killing a thief before he has offered any resistance or attack does not fit the concept of defense and is punishable as simple murder.
2. Defense is allowed only in the event of an actual attack, expressed in any threatening actions. The mere alleged or imaginary intention to carry out an attack, not expressed in any actions, cannot be considered a condition for necessary defense.
3. Defense is permitted to protect not only oneself, but also other persons in danger.
4. Defense is permitted only in the event of an unlawful attack. Therefore, it is impossible to defend against persons who have committed, although violent, but legal actions, for example, from police officers or patrol officers who, on duty, detain persons causing disorder. This will no longer be defense, but resistance to authorities.
In defense, “the use of force and any measures whatsoever” is allowed, therefore, if necessary, weapons.
5. Defense is allowed only to the extent really necessary to repel an attack. Therefore, any unnecessary harm caused to the attacker after the danger has already been averted is recognized as an abuse of defense and subjects the perpetrator to punishment.
6. Defense against a superior is not allowed at all, except in the case where the actions of the superior threaten the subordinate with obvious danger, but even in this case it must be limited to defense to the extent necessary for personal self-preservation. Therefore, for example, beatings inflicted by a boss on a subordinate do not harm the latter. rights to defense, unless they threaten him with obvious danger.
7. Subject to all the above conditions, the person defending against an attack is not subject to liability for his actions, even if their consequence was causing wounds, injury or even death to the attacker.
8. The concept of necessary defense cannot include a fight. Using a weapon in a fight exposes the perpetrator to the law.

XI. Instructions for preparing people for military service

1. Start the lesson without announcement - there will be more time for the task and there will be no needless burden on the memory.
2. Do not give the name of an item without showing it.
3. Avoid studying according to the same program; this develops attention in the shooter.
4. Do not forget that the charter is for us, and not we for the charter. There is time - to do everything as it should be, but if not - according to common sense.
5. As in any business, so in the matter of teaching, think not about finding obstacles, but about the means of overcoming them.
6. Always and in all classes go out with a full pack and a full pack, otherwise the skill of carrying and fitting equipment will not be developed, and the weight carried will always seem heavy.
7. Practice with commanders of all levels up to and including squad commander both in issuing and transmitting orders, as well as in filling positions.
8. End every teaching and lesson with a short lesson.
9. The root of soldierly science is internal, and the most important thing is guard duty; then comes shooting, fencing, formation, gymnastics and literature, and the crown of all is tactical training.

To the Charter of the Garrison Service

1. Never forget 3 points to anyone:
a) whose orders to accept;
b) when to shoot or stab;
c) special duties at posts.
2. Garn to the Charter. sl. teach exclusively practically.
3. When teaching practically, whose orders the sentry carries out, teach from below, starting with the guard, who places the sentry at his post.
To the Internal Service Charter
1. Charter ext. sl. – teach exclusively by demonstration and constant observation of the execution of everything shown.
2. Introduce and demand, first of all, diligence from everyone, and set an example for the first.
Execution is characterized by the accuracy and speed of execution of the given order.
3. Ensure that no one ever leaves without permission.
4. Establish a sacred rule: no matter what happens to you, report immediately on command.
5. Ensure that everyone’s body is kept clean, their clothes are neat, and their property is safe.
6. Be sure to demand repetition of every order given.
7. Treat the property of the population humanely.

To the shooting business

1. It is obligatory for everyone who is entitled to a gun to start the day with a shotgun and sights.
2. Never aim in vain - with a mandatory check of both the aiming and aiming.
3. Teach positioning and aiming in pairs, not in ranks; with this order no time is wasted; there is no tiring, tedious waiting in line, and people, mutually checking each other, will know the matter more firmly.
4. Remember that the best rangefinder is an eye, and therefore use one in any case.
5. Be sure to complete shooting training. shooting at live or dead targets, checking the merits of each shot fired.

Fencing

Stab the stuffed animal from a running start, without stopping on the counter; strike from the heart, pull out the bayonet and run behind the scarecrow. Always prick from the bottom up.

1. Do not forget that the main condition for the success of any drill exercise is the attention of people, and therefore this should always be developed everywhere. Attention is sought by turns, rifle techniques according to numbers, free separation of people from the formation and conditional changes in the meaning of commands and signals.
2. Do not adjust the stance with your hands: do it literally, starting with your legs, the correct position of which determines the correct position of your shoulders and the entire body.
3. Never bother about alignment, but strive only for a free and even step, then alignment will come by itself.
4. On the command “stop” - dead silence and immobility; without correction the error cannot be seen. With the amendment you can see a mile away.
5. Do not confuse directions with alignment; the ability to take a direction and maintain it is required from each individual.
6. The closed part should be led in such a way that people themselves strive to quickly restore order if it is disturbed in any way, subject to complete silence. Talking in formation is not only a bad habit, but also a sign of fussiness.

Verbal activities

1. Any practical training should be supplemented with verbal teaching about what people should know.
2. It is not allowed to assign any lessons and “gouging” is not allowed.
3. Prayer, work, singing, music, games, reading and other useful entertainment should fill the rest of the free time. At the same time, do not forget, for the purpose of training walks to the position, to the artillerymen and other closest neighbors in order to get to know each other and get closer to each other.
.4. Everyone should know the prayer and commandments of the Lord, as well as prayer for the Tsar, with sense and understanding.
5. Explain to everyone that surrendering to the enemy is a shame and a crime. The family of those who surrendered are not given rations; in captivity it will be very difficult for them, because the Germans treat prisoners harshly, give them little to eat, force them to do hard work, and subject them to corporal punishment.” Surrendered means he did not resist, and therefore did not harm the enemy. Consequently, surrender prolongs the war.
6. Explain that escape and evasion from service are shameful and useless. Measures have been taken against this, and anyone who escapes will be caught. The punishment for this is very severe.

7. Instill in the lower ranks that the population’s own property must be treated with care, remembering that we are fighting the Germans, and not civilians. After all, they are already ruined by the enemy. The robber will face a heavy punishment.

Tactical training

1. Don’t take on difficult tasks. Solve, without further ado, simply the tasks of defending and attacking a height, a ravine, a forest, a separate building, a village, a trench, a fortification and a gorge, without forgetting reconnaissance, rest and its protection.
2. Anyone who wants to know tactics must decompose it into a series of practical techniques, shown in a field with divisions, just as statutory departments are shown - without showing, there is no knowledge.
3. When teaching people, do not forget their upbringing, for which:
a) creating surprises at every step, teach them not to get lost;
b) set, if possible, goals the achievement of which would require perseverance;
c) to achieve courage and loyalty where there is apparently no place for them;
d) always support any desire to move forward, at the same time teaching you to rely only on yourself.
4. Tasks for classes on both sides are set so that the method of action is not predetermined by the task. Let everyone choose defense or attack, as desired, to achieve their goal.
5. Achieve constant and uninterrupted communication both at the front and in depth.
6. Secret words must be strictly observed.
7. Always think about saving and feeding ammo.
8. Observation of the flanks is a necessary accessory to any battle formation: only eyes are needed here, not combat strength.
9. When guarding, try to see everything, being invisible yourself, and for stability, where necessary; then dig in.
10. The main task of protective measures is not to catch single people, but to protect troops from an unexpected enemy.
11. Marching movements and reconnaissance require constant practice, and therefore every day - wherever you go, wherever you return from - walk with security and reconnaissance measures.
12. In the dark, walk without firing at close intervals and distances with intermediate chains, covered by a thick patrol chain; you have to walk as the blind walk: you need almost contact.

XII. Remember the aphorisms

1. The one who is not afraid of anything is more powerful than the one whom everyone fears.
2. To become funny means to lose your business.
3. When two people quarrel, both are always to blame.
4. Pull, but don't tear.
5. Example is the most eloquent of sermons.
6. Backbiting harms three people at once: the one about whom they speak ill; to someone who is spoken ill; but most of all to those who slander.
7. A wound caused by a gun can be healed, but a wound caused by the tongue never heals.
8. The most powerful misconceptions are those that do not have. doubts.
9. Courage gives an officer success, and success gives courage.
10. By the way, it’s smart to remain silent.
11. The way to get bored is to say everything you know.
12. Humble is not the one who is indifferent to praise, but the one who is attentive to censure.
13. The last resort should always be the last resort.
14. Everyone looks, but not everyone sees.
15. Laws should be followed, not reinterpreted.
16. Vanity is a sign of consciousness of one’s insignificance.
17. Thinking correctly is more valuable than knowing a lot.
18. For taste - to the young, for advice - to the old.
19. If you say it, you won’t turn it back, if you write it, you won’t erase it, if you chop it off, you won’t add it.
20. A clear conscience is the best pillow.
21. The beauty of the mind causes surprise, the beauty of the soul causes respect.
22. We must conquer with our minds what cannot be overcome by force. 18
23. Don’t be intrusive so that they don’t push you away, and don’t move too far away so that they don’t forget about you.
24. It’s not your place to get involved in social issues.
25. The best part of courage is caution.
26. Didn’t introduce myself to the commander - wait a while with the theater.
27. Know how to leave on time.
28. Friends are not enemies, they are always passive.
29. Friends are powerless. They are bound by obedience to their superiors.
30. Woe to the country where a soldier has an aversion to the ranks of soldiers.
31. Expenses for the army - state insurance premium.
32. Do not be humiliated by the publicity of intimacy.
33. And they salute next to the lady.
34. Spare the pride of soldiers. They have it no less developed than the officers.
35. It is important that your subordinates respect you, not fear you.
36. There is nothing worse than indecision. A worse decision is better than hesitation or inaction.
37. A good example is always better than a rule.
38. The authority died - all the military educational works of the chief also died.
39. Do not forget that the charter is for us, and not we for the charter.
40. When two people quarrel, both are always to blame.”
41. Courage gives an officer success, and success gives courage.
42. Vanity is a sign of consciousness of one’s insignificance.

Conclusion

So, if you want to be a boss, do everything as you read, just do everything down to the smallest detail, otherwise “a fly in the ointment will spoil the ointment,” but if you serve in everything like that, then everything will be fine with you. You yourself will be a good warrior and an honest defender of the Motherland; your superiors will love you and reward you because everything will be in order and in good working order, and your subordinates will love you because you are fair. You are polite to them, you love them yourself and act like a father figure for them. To know that the service is good, and the authorities are happy, and you are at peace, and your people feel good; I am very pleased and receive honor and respect from people.

If we look at history, military ranks was introduced under Peter I. By his decree, “ An honest mirror of youth, or Indications for everyday life." The source was various Russian and translated texts, including the treatise of Erasmus of Rotterdam and “Domostroy” by Karion Istomin. Under Peter it was released “ Military regulations", where the rules of construction were prescribed military, proper order in army And duties of military personnel.

Documents not related to drill order, O honor And conscience in fact there was none. Only in 1904, captain V.M. Kulchinsky. compiled “Advice for Young People” officer", the following, collection Code of Honor.

Russian officer's code of honor

1. Don't make promises unless you're sure you'll keep your promise.
2. Keep yourself simple, with dignity, without folly.
3. It is necessary to remember the line where dignified politeness ends and servility begins.
4. And reports in the heat of the moment.
5. Be less frank - you will regret it. Remember: my tongue is my enemy.
6. Don’t play around - you won’t be able to prove your valor, but you will compromise yourself.
7. Don’t rush to get on friendly terms with a person you haven’t gotten to know well enough.
8. with comrades. Money always spoils relationships.
9. Do not take offensive remarks, witticisms, or ridicule said after you personally. What often happens on the streets and... Be above it. Leave - you won't lose, but you'll get rid of the scandal.
10. If you can’t say anything good about someone, then refrain from saying anything bad, even if you know.
11. No one else - listen. The right, whether to follow it or not, remains with you. Know how to take good advice from another - this is no less an art than giving good advice to yourself.
12. Force officer not in impulses, but in unshakable calm.
13. Take care of your reputation, no matter who it is.
14. There are situations in life when you need to silence your heart and live with your mind.
15. A secret you tell to at least one person ceases.
16. Always be alert and don't let yourself go.
17. On public officers It is not customary to dance.
18. Try to keep your words soft and your arguments firm in a dispute.
19. When speaking, avoid gesticulation and do not raise your voice.
20. If you have entered a society in whose midst there is a person with whom, then when greeting everyone, it is customary to shake hands with him, of course, if this cannot be avoided. Without paying attention to those present or the hosts. Giving a hand does not give rise to unnecessary conversations, and does not oblige you to anything.
21. Nothing teaches like . This is one of the main means of self-education. Only those who do nothing make no mistakes.
22. When two people quarrel, both are always to blame.
23. Authority is acquired by knowledge of the matter and services. It is important that subordinates are respected. Where there is fear, there is no love, but there is hidden ill will or hatred.
24. There is nothing worse than indecision. A worse decision is better than hesitation or inaction. You can't get back a lost moment.
25. The one who is more powerful than the one whom everyone fears.
26. The best part of courage is caution.
27. The strongest delusions are those that have no doubt.
28. Humble is not the one who is indifferent to praise, but the one who is attentive to blame.

“Russian officer” is the definition of a special breed of people. More of a title than a title, uniting several eras of our history at once. And not every Russian military man can really be considered a Russian officer. Probably everyone remembers this quote: “...what is the honor of an officer, I know - you learned this quickly at the front”? Vladimir Sharapov's line from "The meeting place cannot be changed." Although formally he was a Soviet officer, he was Russian in spirit.

The point, of course, is not a matter of innate qualities. Perseverance, nobility - they teach all this. How they taught to be a Russian officer. For this, there was a special set of rules that, albeit informally, had to be observed. There have been regulations in the Russian army since the time of Peter I. Already Peter the Great’s “Military Article” of 1715 regulated the basic rules of military science, army discipline and subordination.

However, there was another, informal set of rules for officer conduct. Those rules that made an officer a real gentleman. For a long time, there was no single written military code of honor, like the Japanese “Bushido,” in Russia. He appeared - coincidence or not? - in 1904, the year of the Russo-Japanese War. “Advice to a Young Officer” was written by captain Valentin Mikhailovich Kulchitsky. In fact, this is a set of pre-existing unwritten rules; Kulchitsky only brought them together. At one time it was a popular brochure, now completely forgotten: between 1915 and 1917 it went through six editions.

Many of the rules of behavior listed in the “Tips...” are universal and will be useful to any man. Here are some of them:

1. If you are harsh and arrogant, everyone will hate you.
2. Be polite and modest in your dealings with all people.
3. Don't make promises unless you're sure you'll keep your promise.
4. Conduct yourself simply, with dignity, without foppishness.
5. Be self-possessed, correct and tactful always, with everyone and everywhere.
6. Be polite and helpful, but not intrusive or flattering. Know how to leave on time so as not to be superfluous.
7. It is necessary to remember the line where dignified politeness ends and servility begins.
8. Don’t play around - you won’t prove your daring, but you will compromise yourself.
9. Don’t rush to get on friendly terms with a person you haven’t gotten to know well enough.
10. Avoid financial settlements with friends. Money always spoils relationships.
11. If you can, help your friend financially, but avoid taking it personally, as it lowers your dignity.
12. Don't make debts: don't dig holes for yourself. Live within your means.
13. Do not take personally offensive remarks, witticisms, or ridicule said after you, which often happens on the streets and in public places. Be above it. Leave - you won’t lose, but you’ll get rid of the scandal.
14. If you can’t say anything good about someone, then refrain from saying anything bad, even if you know.
15. Don't ignore anyone's advice - listen. The right to follow him or not will remain with you.
16. To be able to take good advice from another is no less an art than to give good advice to yourself.
17. Honor tempers courage and ennobles courage.
18. A boss who does not spare the pride of his subordinates suppresses their noble desire to become famous and thereby weakens their moral strength.
19. Take care of the reputation of the woman who trusted you, no matter who she is.
20. There are situations in life when you need to silence your heart and live with your mind.
21. Be guided in life by instinct, a sense of justice and a duty of decency.
22. Always be alert and don't let yourself go.
23. Try to keep your words soft and your arguments firm in a dispute. Try not to annoy your opponent, but to convince him.
24. When speaking, avoid gesturing and raising your voice.
25. There is nothing worse than indecision. A worse decision is better than hesitation or inaction. You can't get back a lost moment.
26. The one who fears nothing is more powerful than the one whom everyone fears.
27. When two people quarrel, both are always to blame.
28. The strongest delusions are those that have no doubt.
29. By the way, it’s smart to remain silent.
30. Humble is not the one who is indifferent to praise, but the one who is attentive to blame.

Prepared by Alexander Ryazantsev