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A '''marshal''' is high-ranking [[royal]] military advisor. For some kingdoms, the Marshal is the chief of staff for the military forces (cf. the modern Field Marshal rank). 

[[William Marshall]] was an [[Earl Marshal]] of particular note.

==Marshals in the SCA==
A '''marshal''' is in charge of all [[combat]]-related [[SCA]] activities. Depending on what type of marshal they are, their responsibilities may include being in charge of [[safety]] on the [[field]] (both [[tournament]] and [[war]]), carrying out [[armour inspection]], [[authorisation]] of new [[fighter]]s and keeping up-to-date with [[society]] combat [[laws]].

==Types of Marshals==
Marshals exist in two forms for all types of SCA combat. First are the [[Field Marshals]] who are charged with maintaining safety and order on the field and performing armor inspections. Any individual in the society can learn to be a field marshal and does not need to be an active combatant to master the craft. The second form of Marshaling is the [[Authorizing Marshal]] who will administer the qualification tests as required by the appropriate kingdom before a fighter can recieve [[authorization]] to participate in tournaments and battles for their chosen style of combat. Authorizing Marshals can be chosen through a variety of methods but the predominate method seems to be apointment by the Kingdom level Marshal.

==Marshal Hierarchy==
The [[kingdom]] marshal is commonly titled the [[Earl Marshal]]. In many kingdoms there is a subordinate Marshal called the [[Kingdom Rapier Marshal]] (KRM). Depending on the size of the Kingdom the Earl and Kingdom Rapier Marshals may appoint regional assistants to perform in their stead when time or money does not allow them to travel to an event. Many local groups will also appoint a Knight Marshal (this individual does not need to be a Knight and will not be addressed as Sir if they are not a member of the Chivalry) and Rapier Marshal to lead local activities. In smaller groups the Knight and Rapier Marshal may be the same person whereas in larger groups they will most likely be different individuals.

==Marshal Devices==
The [[device|symbol]] for the marshallate is a pair of crossed [[or|golden]] [[sword]]s on a [[sable|black]] [[field]]. The [[rapier]] section of the marshallate is a pair of crossed [[or|golden]] [[rapier]]s on a [[sable|black]] [[field]].

[[category:SCA officers]]

==Marshalling==

As well as referring to the activities of a '''marshal''', a [[herald]] may also indulge in ''marshalling'', which in his case means sorting out coats of arms and other blazons.