Editing Marshal (section)

==Civilian==

The term is also used in more ordinary contexts, such as modern [[Procession|pageantry]]; for example, the ''grand marshal'' of a parade is often an honored guest or dignitary.

In the United States, many colleges and universities have marshals. In some cases, there is a single "faculty marshal," appointed to the post on a more or less permanent basis. In other cases, there are one or several faculty marshals, and often one or several student marshals appointed for a single occasion. In all cases, the post is one of honor given to a senior faculty member or outstanding student, and the functions are generally limited to leading processions or parts of processions during [[Graduation|commencement]] exercises, academic [[convocation]]s, [[encaenia]] and similar events. These marshals often carry [[Ceremonial mace|maces]], staffs or wands of office.

A chief usher at a large wedding is sometimes called a ''wedding marshal''.  In addition to coordinating other ushers in attending guests, the wedding marshal may be a messenger between parties to signal the impending start of the service or communicate delays.  In a church wedding, particularly a nuptial mass, these functions may be assumed by a [[verger]].  The wedding marshal is a position of honor and trust, often filled by a close friend or relative.