No 11 Army Commando - The Scottish Commando

This Commando was formed on 23rd June 1940 in Galashiels

After formation it marched from Galashiels to Ayr and then on to the Isle of Arran for amphibious training.

The Commando sailed to the Middle East at the end of January 1941 its first task was operation ‘Exporter’ the invasion of Vichy French Syria. No 11 Commando as ‘C’ Battalion Layforce landed against the French defences at the Litani River on 8th June. During this action No 11 lost its Commanding officer LtCol R.R.H. Pedder along with about one quarter of its strength but the Commando acquitted itself admirably and was part of the success of this operation.

After garrison duties in cypress men from the Commando were involved in the now famous raid on the H.Q. of Rommel. In an attempt to kidnap the ‘Fox’ No 11’s new C.O. LtCol Geoffrey Keyes devised and put into operation the daring’ Flipper’ raid. Parachuting 250 miles behind enemy lines and making their way to the H.Q.overland. Although the outcome was negative the bravery of the men on this operation was of the highest order and Lt Col Keyes was to receive a post humus Victoria Cross for his part in it.

After this raid the Commando role was changing and No 11 along with Layforce was disbanded , due mainly to depleted manpower.