guide-flag

Century Dictionary and Cyclopedia

1. n. Nautical, in fleet tactics, a flag displayed on the vessel which is to act as a pivot or guide during an evolution of the fleet. In the United States navy the guard-flag, a red St. Andrew's cross on a white ground, is used for the purpose.
2. n. Milit., a small flag or guidon borne by a soldier designated as a marker, and serving to mark points of wheeling, alinements, etc.