Answer: rearguard

AnswerCrossword Clue
REARGUARDMilitary detachment
REARGUARDDefenders of a retreat.
REARGUARDMilitary force.
REARGUARDMilitary unit.
REARGUARDBack-up force
REARGUARDLike some military actions
REARGUARDMilitary detachment in the back
REARGUARDDetachment behind a military force
REARGUARDFollowing force
rearguardthe rear of an army; a body of troops protecting it
rearguardThe soldiers positioned at the rear of a body of troops, esp. those protecting an army when it is in retreat
rearguardA defensive or conservative element in an organization or community