Seeing some success with this '2 plus 1' idea. Starting with 2x tactical squad 1 marines, plus 1x Tyrannic War Veteran.

 Most of my rank and file marines just need touchups - new arms, heads, guns, loinclothes and paint in places. Many models need Macragge Blue added to highlight their (too) dark blue arnour.

Annoying how good the bolters look in blue. Might have to repaint them ALL this colour.

I had the squad number in gold too, but it looked to bland. Stark white makes a GREAT contrast to silvered-gold and two-tone blue, as you can see here: 

The white trim looks good too, but you still need gold to add richness to the palette, IMHO.

Added a drum magazine and metal loin'cloth' to the veteran. There are still a few points to touch up, but he's table ready, which is what counts.

On to the next three!