Symbols in Battle Overview Flags serve many purposes. They symbolize a people and represent national pride. Flags convey a shared history.
Flags mean different things to different people and meanings can change over time.
Over the centuries, military units have carried flags and colors. Colors and flags affirm group identity. They build pride and morale, and represent the group's honor. In battle, flags served as a rallying point when a formation was broken. Troops gathered around the flag to regroup, attack or retreat.