Field marshal | |
---|---|
Country | Australia |
Service branch | Australian Army |
Abbreviation | FM |
Rank | Field Marshal |
NATO rank code | OF-10 |
Non-NATO rank | O-11 |
Formation | 1925 |
Next lower rank | General |
Equivalent ranks |
Field marshal is the highest rank of the Australian Army, and is currently held by Charles III, King of Australia. The rank was created as a direct equivalent of the British military rank of field marshal. It is a five-star rank, equivalent to the ranks in the other armed services of Admiral of the Fleet in the Royal Australian Navy, and Marshal of the Royal Australian Air Force. The subordinate army rank is general.
Three of the five field marshals were honorary appointments to members of the Royal Family and one an honorary appointment to a British Army officer. The only Australian appointed was Sir Thomas Blamey, who was on the retired list when he was proposed for the rank. Blamey was recalled to active duty and promoted.