Aiguilette →

Primary identifiers for officers assisting high-ranking leaders like a President or General.

A symbolic representation of the rope carried by a Provost Marshal to hang deserters. Symbolic Meaning & Usage aiguilette

Used to hinge breast and back-plates or secure shoulder guards. aiguilette

Worn by military attachés representing their country at foreign embassies. aiguilette

The side on which the aiguillette is worn often reflects the level of authority being aided:

Lanyards used by early musketeers to keep touch-hole cleaning needles close at hand.