Marshal

Marshal (also spelled Marshall) is a word used in several official titles of various branches of society. The word derives from Old Germanic marah "horse" and scalc "servant", and originally meant "stable keeper". As marshals became betrusted members of the courts of Middle Ages Europe, the title grew in reputation. During the last few centuries, it has been used for the most elevated offices. The spelling of the name ("Marshall") is often confused with the spelling of the title ("Marshal").

Military

In many countries, Field Marshal is the highest Army rank, outranking a General. Field Marshals are very sparsely appointed, and typically only in war-time (although this need not be the case). Their special symbol is a baton, and so their insignia often incorporate batons. Because they are one rank above four-star Generals, they may also have five stars. The United States Army has an equivalent rank, but calls it General of the Army. The naval equivalent of a Field Marshal is often called a Fleet Admiral.

Related Topics:
Field Marshal - Army - Rank - General - Baton - United States Army - General of the Army - Fleet Admiral

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In some countries, the word Marshal is also used instead of General in the highest Air Force ranks. The four highest Royal Air Force ranks are Marshal of the Royal Air Force, Air Chief Marshal, Air Marshal and Air Vice Marshal (although the first has been abolished as a peace-time rank). Most air forces, however, use the ranks of General, Lieutenant General and Major General instead.

Related Topics:
Air Force - Royal Air Force - Marshal of the Royal Air Force - Air Chief Marshal - Air Marshal - Air Vice Marshal - General - Lieutenant General - Major General

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Some historical rulers have used special Marshal titles to award certain subjects. Though not strictly military ranks, these honorary titles have been exclusively bestowed upon successful military leaders. Most famous are the Marshals of France (Marécheaux de France), not least under Napoleon I. Another such title was that of Reich Marshal (Reichsmarschall), that was bestowed upon Hermann Göring by Adolf Hitler.

Related Topics:
Marshals of France - Napoleon I - Reich Marshal - Hermann Göring - Adolf Hitler

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Until the end of World War II, Japan also bestowed the honorary title of Marshal (元帥 gensui) to successful generals and admirals; they would however retain their ranks of general and admiral.

Related Topics:
World War II - Japan - General - Admiral

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