The iconic red star. The symbol that became one of the most prominent of the Soviet Union, adorning nearly all official buildings, military equipment, awards and insignia. The 'Order of the Red Star' was awarded to Red Army and Soviet Navy personnel for "exceptional service in the cause of the defense of the Soviet Union in both war and peace". Although generally associated with the darker days of the soviet era, Putin resurrected the star as a permanent symbol for his armed forces in 2002.