HISTORY

US Army Ranks Insignia War of 1812

According to the US Army, rank insignia were accomplished by the following epaulettes (shoulder boards with fringe):

• Privates: None
• Corporals: Green (Right shoulder only)
• Sergeants: Red (Right shoulder only)
• Lieutenants: Silver (Infantry: left shoulder only)
• Captains: Silver (Infantry: right shoulder only)
• Majors, Lieutenant Colonels, Colonels: Silver (Infantry)
• Brigadier Generals: Gold, one silver star
• Major Generals: Gold, Two silver stars