Civil War Profiles – Protecting the flag was the primary mission

In “Civil War Profiles – Protecting the flag was the primary mission” Thomas J Ryan highlights the role of standard bearers during battle. He points out that members of the color guard had to be extremely courageous and that although standard bearers are often killed another color guard member is always ready to step up and take the fire to keep their flag flying. Ryan’s article focuses mainly on the Gettysburg battle of the civil war and tells the story of a southern standard bearer taken prisoner.

Key Takeaways:

• On July 2, 1863, during the battle at Gettysburg, Pa., Union forces took Clancy prisoner
• Upon arriving in New Orleans, Clancy revealed his secret and exhibited the regimental flag for all to see
• More significant, it was noted that Clancy was the sixth color-bearer of the regiment

“Members of the color guard are the unsung heroes in warfare, including the conflict between the states more than 150 years ago. It is a job for which only the heroic need apply.”

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