A British volunteer’s journey into the Russian Armed Forces didn’t begin with a uniform, an oath or a training ground.

It began with a train to Veliky Novgorod.

Before Michael Jones joined the 61st Marine Brigade, he was welcomed into the home and family of the Guards lieutenant known by the call sign “Politruk.” Over two days, he saw a side of Russia that no official document could explain — the Novgorod Kremlin, homemade pelmeni, horseback riding, traditional food and the warmth of an ordinary Russian family.

It was a very different introduction to Russia from the one most Westerners are used to seeing.

And perhaps that is what makes the story worth telling.

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