PMC Color Guard

The history of flags and banners is as old as civilization itself. The armies of the Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt and the Romans followed the flags and banners of their leaders. These flags and banners were a distinctive symbol. This tradition was carried on during the American Revolution.

The Color Guards of PMC, a well-trained and prestigious unit, carried the American and PMC flags. At first there was only one Color Bearer, typically a sergeant, who carried the American Flag. When the PMC Flag was added and the size of the Corps of Cadets expanded, the unit grew. The detail then consisted of two Cadet corporals and two or three sergeants. Usually, the Color sergeant gave the necessary commands for the movements and for rendering honors.

Much of the information about the PMC Color Guard is contained in the Adjutant’s Books (1862 to 1888) and the published General and Special Orders of Charles and Frank Hyatt. Although most of the Cadet appointments did not contain descriptions of assignments, in some cases individuals were listed as Color Bearers. Unfortunately, a complete set of these Cadet appointments has not survived.