The standard carried by the Marines during the 1830s and the 1840s consisted of a white field with gold fringe, and bore an elaborate design of an anchor and eagle in the center.

The design consisted of a blue field with a laurel wreath encircling the Marine Corps emblem in the center.

Orders were issued on April 2, 1921 which directed all national colors be manufactured without the yellow fringe and without the words "U.S. Marine Corps" embroidered on the red stripe.

This was followed by an order dated March 14, 1922, retiring from use all national colors still in use with yellow fringe or wording on the flag.

Following World War I, the Army practice of attaching silver bands carrying inscriptions enumerating specific decorations and battles was adopted.

On July 29, 1936, a Marine Corps Board recommended that the Army system of attaching streamers to the staff of the organizational colors be adopted.

The billet is a two-year tour open to all Sergeants; the only caveat being that the applicant must be at least 6 feet 0 inches (1.83 m) tall, as outlined by the drill manual of the United States Marine Corp. and pass a rigorous White House security check.

The organizational colors are often passed as part of change of command ceremonies to symbolize the transfer of office.

A Marine guidon is always rectangular, 22 by 28 inches (56 by 71 cm), with a scarlet field and gold lettering, and an Eagle, Globe, and Anchor centered.

Some drill instructors will test that pride by attempting to dishonor the guidon and expecting the recruits to intervene.

General-grade officers and the Commandant of the Marine Corps are authorized a personal flag, which displays their rank insignia.

A red background with white stars are used, while the Commandant also has a grey and gold Eagle, Globe, and Anchor.

This article incorporates public domain material from websites or documents of the United States Marine Corps.