Took another tack. Checked out synonyms for myrmidon as well suggested, though a letter short, by Mr. T. But guess what? MW didn't list a synonym for myrmidon--and that one sure comes closest in the defined meaning so far. Wonder what Roget has stuffed away?

Main Entry: myr·mi·don
Pronunciation: 'm&r-m&-"dän, -d&n
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English Mirmydon, Latin Myrmidon-, Myrmido, from Greek MyrmidOn
Date: 15th century
1 capitalized : a member of a legendary Thessalian people who accompanied their king Achilles in the Trojan War
2 : a loyal follower; especially : a subordinate who executes orders unquestioningly or unscrupulously

Blowing in the Wordwind