Complex sentence: The velites were placed at the front of the maniples, so that the boldest of the velites may become distinguished by seeking out single combat with an enemy, this is also why they wore highly identifiable wolfskin headdresses.
Split into simpler sentences: The velites were placed at the front of the maniples, so that the boldest of the velites had the opportunity to distinguish themselves by seeking out single combat with an enemy. This is also why they wore highly identifiable wolfskin headdresses.