vanguard

(noun) the leading units moving at the head of an army. Synonyms: van.

(noun) any creative group active in the innovation and application of new concepts and techniques in a given field (especially in the arts). Synonyms: avant-garde, van, new wave.

(noun) the position of greatest importance or advancement; the leading position in any movement or field. Synonyms: forefront, cutting edge. Examples: "The cotswolds were once at the forefront of woollen manufacturing in england." "The idea of motion was always to the forefront of his mind and central to his philosophy."