The term 'WAS IN THE VANGUARD' can be summarized by two crossword solutions: LED and LEDTHEWAY. LED stands for 'Light Emitting Diode, ' which is a type of semiconductor that emits light when an electric current passes through it. LEDTHEWAY is a phrase that means to lead the way, or to take the initiative in a situation. This phrase is often used to describe someone who is at the forefront of a movement or trend.