The mission of Stark's Company, the NHSAR Color Guard, is to support the National SAR objectives of advancing the cause of patriotism by partaking in ceremonial honors. Specifically, the Color Guard provides a formal, uniformed presence for posting and retiring the Colors at patriotic events, commemorating Revolutionary War events and honoring the service and sacrifices of our Patriot ancestors. Color Guard members individually, or as a group provide educational activities to the public.
While the Color Guard of the 21st century is primarily ceremonial in terms of purpose and duty, the origins of the Color Guard are based in military practicality.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, flags were commonly referred to as "the Colors." These colors were of primary importance to the military regiment or brigade as the line of battle was formed around the colors of the unit which were placed at the center of the line. The colors were easily seen through the smoke of battle. If the colors advanced, the line would advance. If the colors retired, the line would retire. As battles would progress and casualties mounted, the line would contract to the colors. In effect, the colors would serve as a rallying point if the line was broken or the men became dispersed. Thus, success in battle was often dependent on the handling of the colors.
The importance of the colors was so significant that a ceremony was performed before battle called "The Trooping of the Colors." The men of the regiment or brigade were assembled on the parade ground in camp and the colors were paraded before them. This way, each man would see and thus be certain of his colors before taking the field of battle.
Likewise, while there could be many diverse objectives in a battle, one of the most important was capturing of the colors of the enemy unit. This would deprive the enemy of their primary means of control and rallying point during the battle. To prevent this, regiments and brigades would select the most valiant men to protect the colors and color bearer. These men comprised the "Color's Guard," a posting of great honor and source of pride.
As in years past, being a member of a Color Guard continues to be a position of honor.
As we approach the beginning of the 250th Anniversary of the American Revolution period, our Stark's Company is focused on the personification of our patriots and the ideals embraced by the SAR. Beyond any sense of pride, going into the public in uniform provides an honorable and a humbling experience every time. But most importantly, it is an opportunity to share history with the public, carry out the SAR mission, and hopefully impart a sense of importance, perhaps urgency, in the public to hold dear what they learn, and be willing in these times to treasure what's been given to them.