Battlefield Roles
Pikeman
The pikemen provide the backbone of the infantry or foot regiment.
Although
they only constitute about a third of a regiments strength, they
provide
the primary fighting arm of the regiment in close quarter hand to hand
fighting. The pike itself is a simple, overly long spear. The pike was
intended to be used en masse, by strong, well-drilled men. This "push
of
pike" sometimes requires our contemporary pikemen to wear a helmet,
gloves and possibly armour to protect them 
Musketeer
Musketeers are equipped with a smooth bore, muzzle loading, black powder matchlock musket. During the Civil War these weapons fired a ½ -1 ounce lead shot. Although 17th century muskets were unreliable and inaccurate they could deliver a devastating blow to the enemy, if fired at close range in massed volley. The modern reproduction weapons are made to the high specifications. All musketeers are statutorily required to possess a shotgun licence and black powder certificate. The Sealed Knot prides itself on its safety precautions.
Camp Followers or Civilian
Camp followers were the men and women who followed the 17th century army on the march. Although many of the women who join us choose to take part in the battles as "male" soldiers, those that elect to be camp followers provide water, sustenance and encouragement to the soldiery. Unlike their 17th Century counterparts, who would have been a thoroughly disreputable bunch, the camp followers of today enjoy playing this highly challenging role and are hugely appreciated for it.
Officer
Officers are historically all ranks of corporal and above, with those of sergeant and above showing their millitary officership by wearing a sash. The officers above the rank of sergeant were almost exclusively gentleman and wore their own clothing instead of uniform and would have other means of support than the very irregular army pay. Many of the officers and Generals paying from their own pockets to raise and equip their regiments or companies. To be an officer in any SK regiment involves rising from the ranks and is a job that involves alot of hard work which is often under appreciated.
Musician
Musicians were the drummers and pfifers who provided both audible signals for orders and music for marching and morale. The drummers were part of the regiment, but other musicians were paid directly by the officer hiring them. The musicians were educated men and could read and write, which served them well in their role as messengers to the enemy in parley situations, during which times they would often spy on the dispositions and the quality of the enemy forces. On the field they are non-combatants and are a good way for members to add to the battle but not actually fight.
Ensign
This is one of the junior officers,
but has special and extremely important responsibilities. His main duty
to carry the flag or colour of his company and to make sure it is kept
safe and secure even to to the point of laying down his life.
Occasionally
the colour is carried by flag bearer, who is a trusted soldier
who
then has the responsibilities to the security of the colour as the
ensign. In our re-enactments, the colour is the same symbol of
regimental pride as in history and should only be taken by prior
consent or bad things may happen!
