Rebel Colors
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A Confederate color sergeant proudly displays his regimental banner in the mid-Fall afternoon sunlight during a brief respite on campaign. Being a member of the regimental Color Guard was not only the most perilous of all posts, it was considered by the solders of that unit to be the most glorious positions of honor. The flag was the symbol of the regiment and an emblem of pride to the soldiers who fought and died under it. Soldiers were habitually trained to follow the flag into battle and never allow it's capture by the enemy. A Color Guard - made up of from 6 to 10 the regiment's stoutest and steady men were charged with the defense of the flag and were not allowed to fire or use their weapons for any other purpose. They were to hold their arms at the shoulder unless the flag was threatened. The color Sergeant's only duty was to carry the flag aloft and make sure it was seen not only by the men in his unit but, but by the enemy as well. If the color bearer was killed or wounded the next man in the color guard would pick up the flag and carry it onward. This act of heroism to keep the flag flying was repeated in countless instances on many a bloody battlefield throughout the Civil War.
Original Oil Painting Available
Oil on Linen Panel
16" x 20"
Price: Upon Request
Year Created 2010
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