U.S. ARMY RANK INSIGNIA
The Later Revolutionary War Era - 1779
In 1779, Gen. Washington devised a plan to take advantage
of the new found wealth the alliance with France would bring. The several
volunteer regiments of the States would be grouped into Corps areas by
geographic region. Each Corps area would wear a distinctive outer coat.
All coats to be blue. Facings in white, buff, red, and blue; respectively.
Unfortunately, Washington's plan was countered with a
Congressional plan and it is unclear to what extent either was carried
forth. One order did stand, a white center was added to the black cockade
of officers to outwardly signify the French alliance. French officers wore
white cockade and coat.
Artillerymen were the elite troops of this era. The need
for a knowledge of mathematics and engineering made them a cut above other
army branches. The uniform reflected the distinction; it was virtually
the same in any army world wide.
©1996 RWD Ploessl
Archived locally to preserve source.
U.
S. Army Insignia Page
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