In most regiments the colorbearers held SGTs rank. They were part of the colorguard, a group of usually eight men charged with carrying and protecting the colors in combat. There would be one man for the national color and one for the regimental battle flag. Colorbearer was a post of great responsiability only given to the steadist and most reliable men in a regiment, since thew colors served the combat role of indicating direction of movement and served as the focal point for a unit to reform around. If the colorbearer ran, chance are most of the regiment would shortly follow.