The origins and early exploits of the Special Air Service have been analysed many times, but surprisingly little attention has been paid to the numerous unorthodox units and concepts previously attempted by the British Army, all of which helped to inspire its ethos. These precede its foundation by 200 years in the case of Rogers Rangers, who attempted to emulate the hit and run tactics of the Native American tribes deep behind enemy lines; a form of warfare which Lawrence of Arabia expanded upon to considerable effect in the First World War. The book also looks at the Lovat Scots who were formed during the Boer War to provide the British with a reconnaissance force which could match their opponents superb mobility, marksmanship, and knowledge of the land. This idea inspired the thinking behind the Independent Companies, who were intended to act as a guerilla force during the Norwegian campaign, living off the land and making small scale raids against the enemy. With further chapters profiling the Commandos, Airborne Forces, the Special Boat Squadron, Layforce, and the Long Range Desert Group, it is only in the final quarter of the book when all of these pieces are assembled into David Stirling's concept for the SAS, with its formation and first operations being described.

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Pegasus Archive

He is said to have come up with one of the most famous armed forces regiments in history from a hospital bed before sneaking into military headquarters to make sure his plan was heard.

Many believe Sir David Stirling, known as the father of the SAS, was the man solely responsible for its creation.

But a new book has uncovered the 'secrets' around its origins and claims there were a number of other figures vital to the SAS's development, including an intelligence officer who originally came up with the name to try to trick the Italians into fighting a fake unit.

Mail Online

A worthwhile exploration of why the SAS was created.

The Armourer, May 2018

Based on primary sources, this is an outstanding account of the early days of the SAS. Today, the SAS is a premier special forces group, known around the world and the example of professional dedicated service to the highest standards – Much Recommended.

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Firetrench

Basis for author article as featured in

Best of British, October 2017