I double checked the black and white photos I saw, yeah I think they are Russian soldiers not NVA. I know the Russians did use blue electrical tape on there AKs. But as I was looking at NVA I didn't see one with taped ak mags. Now I'm still willing to bet at least one NVA private or Viet Cong guy probably did tape mags together but it probably wasn't common like the Soviets did.

As a Vietnam Vet (1970-71) and from personal experience, I never observed or even heard of an NVA soldier carrying taped together magazines. The basic load for an NVA was four 30 round magazines- one in the weapon (AK-47 or AKM) and three in a chest vest. Two 30 round mags taped together might seem to be advantageous,  but to me at least it is not practical. It would be awkward and heavy. Some weapons that are lighter (M1 Carbine, Swedish K, MP40) it might work. out.  Now some might disagree with a different perspective, that's OK.

And the early shoulder straps, this is also a good book.. German Army shoulder straps and boards 1933-1945 by Thomas J. Suter and David A. Suter

Nice, thanks for the pics!

Looks like costume jewelry. Whats the back look like?

Just digging around and found this in one of my "boxes."  Can't recall where or when I got it, but have had it for years.  First blush it looksl like a brit. cap/beret badge, but extensive google searches show at least one other person has ask about this type piece, but seems no one knows on google.  Anyone here recognize or can I.D. this thingie?  Thanks for looking, best regards, Allen

Here are some pictures.     

I wonder if he got in trouble…

A much better, and undisputed read...   Sources:   https://books.google.com/books?id=pJl3myN1TlsC&pg=PA2&source=kp_read_button&hl=en&newbks=1&newbks_redir=0&gboemv=1&ovdme=1#v=onepage&q&f=false   https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Simon_Murray_(businessman)  

A nice walk down memory lane for us old timers.  

Looks interesting. 

I still use them both frequently at the shop- for obscure questions (what color bayonet knot did Regiment 21 use?) and more common question, plus with the great pics and color plates, just find to look through!