In various uniformed hierarchies, the term is used for number of functions, but generally as a principal aide to a commanding officer.

Throughout the war Manley served as one of Oppenheimer's principal aides, with particular responsibility for laboratory management.

"So I'm going to be appointing you as my principal aide," he said as he brought the young knight back.

Elected by a diocesan convention of priests and laity, he served as the bishop's principal aide from 1960 until his retirement in 1987.

"We've done all we can," one of Mr. Baker's principal aides said.

Meanwhile, Catherine gains important experience of government from working as principal aide to the empress.

She quickly became a principal aide to Mr. Markert and, for more than 15 years, was his associate director.

On the death of the king in 1837 he retired, although he was first and principal aide de camp to Queen Victoria 1837-39.

The real question now is who will be appointed as the new President's principal aides.

He was appointed principal aide to the Secretary General in 1982.