"Always on Guard," an early sketch for a propaganda poster from the Russian SFSR, reflects the heightened sense of vigilance and unity in the Soviet Union during the 1980s. The uniformed men holding a flag, surrounded by symbols like a tank and star, encapsulate the readiness and solidarity of the Soviet forces.

This sketch, drawn on lined paper, is part of the intricate process of poster creation in the Soviet era, where artists would apply to the Union of Artists of USSR, create initial sketches, and then replicate them in color for printing.

The importance of the Great Patriotic War in shaping Soviet identity is evident in this artwork. It serves as a testament to the enduring impact of the war, the Soviet response to the German invasion, and the subsequent liberation of Eastern Europe. The poster also symbolizes the delicate balance between honoring the past and maintaining vigilance for the future, capturing the essence of a nation forever marked by the triumphs and tragedies of the Great Patriotic War.