I spent a few months in Russia in 1992 (first year after the breakup of the Soviet Union). I noticed that military in uniform were everywhere, and not always as smart as the colonel referred to by Heathrow Harry. The worst example I saw was a junior officer strolling down the street in Yaroslavl, cap pushed back, tunic unbuttoned, can of coke in one hand and his other around his girfriend's shoulders!
A bit different in St Petersburg, there it was understandably naval officers in evidence. Saw quite a few admirals on Nevsky Prospekt, all plastered in medal ribbons of course and looking very smart and impressive.