Doc. 57.-Inscriptions upon flags.
General orders No. 19.
it is ordered that there shall be inscribed upon the colors or guidons of all regiments and batteries in the service of the United States, the names of the battles in which they have borne a meritorious part.
The names will also be placed on the Army Register at the head of the list of the officers of each regiment.
It is expected that troops so distinguished will regard their colors as representing the honor of their corps — to be lost only with their lives ; and that those not yet entitled to such a distinction will not rest satisfied until they have won it by their discipline and courage.
The General Commanding the army will, under the instructions of this Department, take the necessary steps to carry out this order.
By command of Major-Gen. Mcclellan.
L. Thomas, Adjutant-General.
