skirmish/skirmishers a brief fight or encounter between small groups of troops/ the troops who take part in a skirmish.
perambulating veterans strolling troops.
the colors the flag.
the Question the question which all soldiers face: What will death be like?
the generals the highest-ranking officers, above the colonels.
the lieutenant an officer ranking above a second lieutenant and below a captain; here, a first lieutenant.
battery a set of heavy guns; cannons.
