Black Rod 1350 by royal letters patent, though the current title dates from 1522. The position was adopted by other members of the Commonwealth when they adopted the British Westminster system. The title is derived from the staff of office, an ebony staff topped with a golden lion, which is the main symbol of the office's authority. A ceremonial rod or staff is a common type of symbol indicating the authority of the office-holder. Depictions of ancient authority figures in many cultures include such a rod (alternatively called a sceptre). Another early example was the fasces (literally a bound bundle of rods)
Manchukuo Imperial Guards from candidates of Manchu ethnic backgrounds, and were trained independently of the Manchukuo Imperial Army or the Japanese Kwantung Army. Although largely a ceremonial force, they received the latest firearms and also carried Japanese-style swords (guntō) or sabres as dress weaponry. Their uniform was grey or black with silver or gold insignia, with a five-color, five pointed star on their helmets and kepis. Initially, the Guard consisted of 200 men organized into a company. Later, an independent brigade called the Chinganyuchitui or “Special Guard Corps” was formed for use in special operations during the Pacification of Manchukuo. It was effective