color guard began like one would expect, as a unit devoted to guarding and proudly displaying our country's colors.  while there are still and always will be groups dedicated to doing exactly this, many color guards are now also part of the pageantry arts; drum corps, color guard and winterguard.  the pageantry arts typically involve music, color and motion and operate in conjunction with one another during the summer and fall months.  in the winter and spring, color guard becomes winterguard and these groups compete separately from the musicians they performed with during the summer and fall.  each year most of these groups gather together in their respective local and state circuits throughout january, february and march to face off in a terrific display of artistry and skill.  music is selected by each group's staff and then performances are held most often in gymnasiums with a stereo playing the unit's music.  the most prestigious of these contests is held in dayton, ohio, where over 200 guards from across the country and even other nations are present in competition.

color guards are responsible for visually presenting whatever soundtrack is being presented to the audience.  groups can use a number of props or pieces of equipment for this purpose, but most often they utilize two distinct pieces, the flag and the weapon.  weapons are divided into two categories, rifle and sabre.  equipment is manipulated to counts set up by the soundtrack and members move across the field and floor to produce exciting effects and designs, all while handling the equipment.  dance is an enormous element of the color guard activity and every member is trained in movement and dance principles.

color guard requires skill, athleticism, focus, a strong work-ethic and a great attitude.  many hours of work go into every performance and rehearsal can be difficult and tiring.  the rewards are worth the effort when the audience applauds, when something new is learned and when boundaries are broken.