marshals

Marshals is the plural of marshal, a title used for various officials and officers who organize, supervise, or secure functions in government, law, or ceremonial life. The exact powers and status of marshals vary by country and by context.

In the United States, the term is closely associated with the United States Marshals Service, a federal law enforcement agency within the Department of Justice. Its core duties include protecting federal judges, jurors, and witnesses; transporting and guarding federal prisoners; pursuing fugitives and executing warrants; and providing security for federal courts. The service also administers the Federal Witness Protection Program in appropriate cases and supports other law enforcement operations.

In many countries, marshal is a senior rank in the army or air force, such as field marshal or marshal of the army. The rank is traditionally among the highest military authorities and may be used mainly in ceremonial or historical contexts today. The term also appears in civil and administrative settings, where a marshal may oversee public order, traffic, court security, or event coordination.

In addition, marshals appear in ceremonial roles, such as a grand marshal leading a parade. The word can also function as a verb, meaning to marshal resources or people, i.e., to assemble, organize, or arrange in preparation for action.