The term color guard is more than an honorary title; unit and national flags were carried into battle to show a rallying point, as well as a sign of pride. To lose ones colors in battle was, and is, a great dishonor...this likely indicated a break in the battle line, and perhaps the loss of the battle. The most stalwart troops were chosen to protect the colors, and defend a units honor.
The term color guard is more than an honorary title; unit and national flags were carried into battle to show a rallying point, as well as a sign of pride. To lose ones colors in battle was, and is, a great dishonor...this likely indicated a break in the battle line, and perhaps the loss of the battle. The most stalwart troops were chosen to protect the colors, and defend a units honor.