We Are The Standard Bearers

(“The Unconquered” by artist Don Troiani; all credit and rights related to this image belong to Don Troiani)

Bell Irvin Wiley (1906-1980) was professor emeritus of history at Emory University and one of America's preeminent War of 1861 historians. His book "The Life of Johnny Reb" is a classic, and a must have for anyone who wants to know what life was like for the regular soldier in the Confederate military.

In Chapter 5 of "The Life of Johnny Reb," Wiley is writing about acts of heroism and bravery among the Southern soldiers. Specifically, Wiley gives high praise for those charged with bearing the colors in battle. Wiley writes:

"Of all the brave, those who were entrusted with the colors had the most consistent record. Almost every official report of regimental commanders mentions the courageous action of standard-bearers. To keep the flag flying was a matter of inestimable pride, and it's loss to the enemy was an incalculable disgrace. Consequently men vied with each other for the honor of holding the cherished emblem aloft in the thickest of the fight. The Federals, knowing the close association of morale and colors, and being easily able to single out standard-bearers because of their conspicuousness, were wont to concentrate an unusually heavy amount of fire upon them. Literally thousands of those who aspired to the honor of carrying and guarding the flags paid for the privilege with their lives."

 Upon the delivery of what SCV members know as "The Charge," by UCV Commander-General Stephen D. Lee in 1906, the honor & responsibility of bearing the standard was completely passed on to us, the descendants of the men who fought under her! In this day and age we certainly must fight (in the ideological sense) to not allow the meaning of the flags of our beloved ancestors be captured and tarnished by those who would seek to equate it with hate. Let us take pride in honoring each and every one who honorably served under the flags of the Confederacy, and strive in guarding the symbols that are so synonymous with those brave men of valor, FOR WE ARE THE STANDARD BEARERS!

DEO VINDICE!!!
- Jonathan McCleese
Sergeant-at-Arms, SCV Camp #1321