Flags were repeatedly transformed in the field; soldiers would add patches or symbols to represent victories or losses that

https://gregoryvqbt875.northstarcolumn.com/posts/the-history-behind-the-civil-war-flag-symbols-of-a-nation-divided

Flags were from time to time changed in the field; squaddies might upload patches or symbols to symbolize victories or losses that marked their unit's adventure due to struggle.