[2] The armored warhorse in the upper left quadrant of the shield is the symbol of that elite mobile warrior, the knight.

The trumpet, or horn, in the lower right quadrant of the shield represents the instrument of command and control used by ancient armies.

Kings and great nobles used the trumpet to call their martial forces to war as well as to control their movements on the battlefield.

Charlemagne, king of the Franks, began to return home to France across the Pyrenees Mountains while Sir Roland guarded the rear of his army some distance behind.

The next day Charlemagne learned of the valiant deed and named Sir Roland the greatest of his knights.