Synonyms for Vanguard (same or very similar meaning)
WordNet sense 1 (any creative group active in the innovation and application of new concepts and techniques in a given field (especially in the arts)):
avant-garde, van, New Wave, avant-gardeWordNet sense 2 (the position of greatest importance or advancement; the leading position in any movement or field):
forefront, cutting edgeFrom the ODE community, based on WordNetadd/edit