The legion was the basic unit of the Roman army. Each maniple was commanded by a centurion, that could be recognized by his leg guards, the vine-stick and the helmet with a transverse crest. The Legion's equipment after the Marian reform was standardized and issued by the State. Legionnaires of this period wore a lorica hamata, reinforced on the shoulders, and were equipped with semi-rectangular shields. Two throwing pila, the gladius and the pugio (a short dagger) completed their equipment. Ages 8+