'3 Commando Brigade, Royal Marines'

43 Commando Fleet Protection Group RM
Without notice at the end of the war a decision was made to disband the Army Commandos. Demobilization commenced almost immediately with some Commando Units being merged for short periods as numbers dwindled. The RM Commandos did not escape the cutbacks being reduced from nine units down to three.
  • October 1946 after the disbandment of the merged No.1/5 (Army) Commando, 3 Commando Brigade, still in the Far East, was redesignated as 3 Commando Brigade, Royal Marines.
  • 16 March 1947 the then 44 Commando of 3 Commando Brigade RM was redesignated as 40 Commando, Royal Marines. The intention being to perpetuate a Commando representative of the Dieppe raid and the Italian theatre of war, and to recognise their contribution to the Allied victory in Europe as with that of 45 Commando, combined with 42 Commando's contribution to Allied victory in the Far East.
  • 3 Commando Brigade RM now consisted of 40, 42, and 45 Commandos, and a Commando Engineer troop.
  • April 1952 3 Commando Brigade RM commenced its move to Malta utilising the existing accommodation at the barracks titled St Andrew’s, St George’s, and St Patrick’s. 

Unlike in WW2, nowadays all Royal Marines are Commando trained. However this did not occur immediately. Throughout the 50's and 60's recruits attended the Infantry Training Centre, Royal Marines at Lympstone. Once finished their infantry training, Marines had a choice of of going either on the Commando course, or on a Gunnery Course and going to sea on “Big Ships”. Eventually a decision was made for all Royal Marines to be Commando trained.
 
In 1972 the name of the training centre at Lympstone was changed to the Commando Training Centre, Royal Marines (CTCRM). Veterans who served all their time on board ships wear the blue beret with red patch just as proudly as Commandos who wear the green beret. These days the former is worn in service only by recruits, often harmlessly referred to in the past as Nods or Winks. Today the CTCRM delivers training recruitment and selection, recruit and Officer training, leadership and career training for the Royal Marines, as well as Commando training for the rest of UK Defence.

Additionally Army Commando units have again returned. During 1962, 29 Field Regiment RA were deployed with 25 Pounder guns in Aden and Kuwait, deterring Iraq from invading the oil fields. On the back of these deployments, the Regiment was re-roled as Commando Artillery. The newly formed 29 Commando Regiment RA trained for and passed the All Arms Commando Course at the Training Centre Royal Marines, Lympstone. It was a proud and historic moment when the first Army Commandos since the end of the War received their Green Berets on 15 May 1962.

24 Commando Royal Engineers provides integral engineer support to 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines. Currently 24 Commando consists of 54 Commando Headquarters and Support Squadron, 56, 59, and 131 Commando Squadrons, and REME workshop.

Today's Commando Logistic Support Squadron can trace its commando roots back to the 8th May 1964 when four Officers and 24 RAOC storemen and clerks completed their commando training and were awarded their Green Berets as part of the new 3 Commando Brigade Ordnance Field Park. Changing its name in 1972 to the Commando Ordnance Squadron, then being renamed again as the Commando Logistic Squadron in 1996.

To earn the right to wear the coveted green beret you must first pass the All Arms Commando Course


Read more about the origins of the Commandos in WW2 [go to commando history.]

'Roll of Honour since 1946'

Roll of Honour Army and Royal Marines Commandos 

The links below take you to the names in decade order of those who have 'Died in Service' since 1946. You can also search the full Commando Roll of Honour by surname or date. 
 

Died in service 1946 - 1979

Commandos who have died in service between 1946 and 1979.
Those who died during their commando course.
 
Notes
Click on surname for full details.
This Roll of Honour is not complete as its is in the process of being compiled. 
Contact us if you have information on any individual.
You can also search the ROH by name or date order HERE.
 
"They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old. Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them"
 
1946 - 1949
Surname
First name
Rank
Unit
Year
Samuel
Cpl
41RM Commando
1947
Robert
Sgt
RM Commando
1946
Hubert
RQMS
40 Commando RM
1949
George
WO2 
No 3 Commando
1946
James
Cpl
40 Commando RM
1948
Thomas
Pte
No.1 Commando
1948
John
Capt
Commando School RM
1948
William
Mne
45 Commando RM
1957
Horace
CSM
42 Commando RM
1948
Michael
Mne
45RM Commando
1946
Arnold
Lieut
40 Commando RM
1949
Ronald
Cpl
No 5 Commando
1946
William
Pte
No 3 Commando
1946
George
Mne
3 Commando Bde. RM
1947
Charles, A.M.H.H.
Mne
HQ, 3 Commando Bde RM
1948
Roger
Mne
42 Commando RM
1947
Kenneth
Mne
45RM Commando
1946
T.H.
Pte
No 5 Commando
1946
Percy
RQMS
45 Commando RM
1949
Norman
Mne
45 Commando RM
1949
Rexley
Mne
3 Commando Bde. RM
1947
Luther
Mne
42 Commando RM
1949
John
Lieut
3 Commando Bde. RM
1946
Frederick
Pte
No 4 Commando
1946
William
Pte
No 5 Commando
1946
William
Sgt
42RM Commando
1947
Joseph
Mne
45RM Commando
1946
Thomas
Mne
45RM Commando
1946
Alfred
Mne
3 Commando Bde. RM
1949
William
Cpl
45RM Commando
1947
Peter
LCpl
No 2 Commando
1947
Charles
Sgt
Commando School RM
1948
Thomas
Gnr
No 4 Commando
1947
Thomas
Mne
42RM Commando
1947
Ernest
Cpl
42 Commando RM
1947
Ronald
Mne
40 Commando RM
1948
Maurice
Mne
42RM Commando
1947
Ernest
Mne
44RM Commando
1946
Sidney
Mne
45RM Commando
1946
Arthur
Mne
40RM Commando
1947
1950 - 1959
Surname
First name
Rank
Unit
Year
Gerard
Mne
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1951
Arthur
Mne
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1951
Charles
Mne
40 Commando RM
1952
Trevor
Sgt
Special Boat Service
1951
Thomas
Mne
HQ 3 Commando Bde. RM
1956
Ronald
Cpl
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1950
David
Sgt
45 Commando RM
1958
Charles
Sgt
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1951
Terence
Mne
45 Commando RM
1950
Donald
Cpl
40 Commando RM
1953
Jarvis
Cpl
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1950
James
Cpl
R.M.F.V.R.
1956
Benet
Mne
45 Commando RM
1956
Harry
Mne
45 Commando RM
1958
Paul
Lieut
45 Commando RM
1951
Derek
Mne
40 Commando RM
1953
Graham
QMS
45 Commando RM
1957
James
Mne
40 Commando RM
1951
Roland
Mne
40 Commando RM
1951
Graham
Musn
HQ, 3 Commando Bde. RM
1959
Robert
Mne
40 Commando RM
1951
Richard
Mne
Commando School RM
1952
James
Lieut
40 Commando RM
1951
Ronald
Cpl
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1950
Donald
Sgt
45 Commando RM
1953
George
Mne
40 Commando RM
1951
Donald
Sgt
42 Commando RM
1956
Louis
Lieut
40 Commando RM
1956
Ronald
LCpl
40 Commando RM
1953
Michael
Lieut
40 Commando RM
1951
Lorin
Mne
40 Commando RM
1956
Rex
Mne
40 Commando RM
1951
Brian
Mne
42 Commando RM
1950
Robert
Mne
Commando School RM
1953
Murdoch
Mne
45 Commando RM
1954
Peter
Mne
45 Commando RM
1951
Michael
Mne
45 Commando RM
1956
Ronald
Mne
40 Commando RM
1956
Walter
Mne
Commando School RM
1953
Ivan
Mne
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1950
GEACH Ernest Mne RMB Eastney 1958
Thomas, J.H.
Sgt
45 Commando RM
1951
George, John
Mne
R.M.F.V.R. & 4SBS
1951
Cyril
Mne
45 Commando RM
1956
John
Mne
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1950
Norman
CSgt
45 Commando RM
1954
Raymond
Mne
40 Commando RM
1958
Jack
CSgt
45 Commando RM
1958
John
Lieut
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1951
Peter
Lieut
40 Commando RM
1957
Lewis
Mne
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1951
John
Cpl
45 Commando RM
1951
Samuel
Sgt
Commando School RM
1952
Christopher
Cpl
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1951
Stanley
Mne
41 Independent  Cdo. RM
1951
Keith
Mne
41 Independent Cdo. RM 
1950
Alfred
Mne
Special Boat Service
1951
David
Mne
42 Commando RM
1956
Norman
Cpl
40 Commando RM
1951
Leonard
Mne
40 Commando RM
1952
Dennis
Mne
Special Boat Service
1951
William
Mne
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1950
Frank
Mne
45 Commando RM
1954
Alfred
Mne
45 Commando
1954
Peter
Mne
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1950
David
Mne
45 Commando RM
1950
Douglas
Surg.Lt
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1950
Ernest
Mne
40 Commando RM
1951
Kenneth
Mne
45 Commando RM
1956
Alexander
Mne
45 Commando RM 
1958
Peter
Capt
42 Commando RM
1951
William
Mne
HQ 3 Commando Bde RM
1953
Kenneth
Mne
40 Commando RM
1950
Peter
Lieut
40 Commando RM 
1956
Joseph
Mne
41 Independent Cdo. RM 
1950
Harry
Mne
41 independent Cdo. RM
1951
Leslie
Mne
45 Commando RM
1951
Henry
Cpl
42 Commando RM
1954 
Robert
Mne
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1951
Ernest
Mne
45 Commando RM
1950
Reuben
Mne
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1951
Patrick
Sgt
45 Commando RM
1952
Samuel
Sgt
40 Commando RM
1950
Ralph
Capt
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1950
Dennis
Mne
45 Commando RM
1950
Bernard
Mne
42 Commando  RM
1956
Thomas
Mne
HQ 3 Commando Bde. RM
1957
Denis
L/SBA
RN, attd 41 Ind. Cdo. RM
1950
Stewart
Mne
42 Commando RM
1955
Stephen
Mne
45 Commando RM
1969
Terence
Mne
45 Commando RM
1955
Harry
Mne
42 Commando RM
1950
William
Mne
42 Commando RM
1950
Raymond
Cpl
40 Commando RM
1951
Edward
Mne
Special Boat Service
1951
Brian
Mne
42 Commando RM
1956
Stanley
Mne
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1951
Derek
Mne
45 Commando RM
1952
Ronald
Mne
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1950
David
Lieut
45 Commando RM
1958
Gordon Herbert
Lt Col
RMB Eastney
1951
John
Mne
42 Commando RM
1950
Eric
Mne
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1950
Dennis
Mne
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1950
John Arnison
PO
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1950
Maurice
Sgt
40 Commando RM
1951
Charles
Cpl
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1950
Leslie
Mne
45 Commando RM
1950
Edward
Lieut
40 Commando RM
1956
William 
Mne
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1950
John
LCpl
No.6 Commando
1951
George
Sgt
45 Commando RM
1951
Brian
Cpl
42 Commando RM
1959
Alfred
QMS
45 Commando RM
1956
David
Mne
45 Commando RM
1958
Royston
Mne
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1950
Robert
Mne
42 Commando RM
1950
Kenneth
Mne
41 Independent Cdo. RM
1951
Terence
Cpl
HQ, 3 Commando Bde. RM
1959
1960 - 1969
Surname
First name
Rank
Unit
Year
Bernard
Mne
45 Commando RM 
1961
David
Sgt
45Commando RM
1964
Paul
Bugler
45 Commando RM
1961
Richard
Lieut. Col.
Royal Marines
1968
Keith
Mne
40 Commando RM
1969
David
Mne
45 Commando RM
1967
Reginald
Cpl
42 Commando RM
1964
Ian
Lieut
42 Commando RM
1966
Brian
LBdr
95 Commando RA
1965
Michael
Cpl
45 Commando RM
1968
Vivian
Cpl
HQ, 3 Commando Bde. RM
1968
Bernard
Bdr
95 Commando RA
1965
Thomas
Mne
42 Commando RM
1966
Robert
Cpl
HQ, 3 Commando Bde. RM
1965
James Thomas
Bdr
29 Commando Regt RA
1966
Peter
Cpl
40 Commando RM
1965
Peter
Sgt
42 Commando RM
1965
Ian
Lt. Col
Royal Marines
1960
Mark
Mne
40 Commando RM
1964
Christopher
Mne
42 Commando RM
1967
Mark
Cpl
40 Commando RM
1963
Anthony
Mne
45 Commando RM
1967
Anthony
Capt
ITCRM
1960
Victor
Sgt
95 Commando RA
1965
Hamish
Capt
Sultan of Oman Armed Forces
1966
David
Mne
45 Commando RM
1967
Ronald
Mne
42 Commando RM
1962
Cecil
Sgt
42 Commando RM
1966
John
Cpl
HQ, 3 Commando Bde. RM
1967
Graham
Mne
42 Commando RM
1962
Thomas
Colonel
HMS President
1960
Hugh
Mne
ITCRM
1960
Thomas
Mne
45 Commando RM
1968
Rowan
Cpl
42 Commando RM
1966 
James
Sgt
79 Commando Bty. RA
1963
Derek
Mne
40 Commando RM
1961
Joseph
Cpl
42 Commando RM
1964
Gordon
Mne
41 Commando RM
1965
Richard
Mne
45 Commando RM
1964
Geoffrey
Gnr
95 Commando Regt. RA
1965
Reginald
LCpl
45 Commando RM
1963
Richard
Mne
42 Commando RM
1962
Kenneth
Cpl
42 Commando RM
1962
Malcolm, C.
Sgt
CTCRM
1966
Eric
Mne
41 Commando RM
1961
Gerald
Mne
42 Commando RM
1962
James
Mne
HQ 3 Commando Bde. RM
1966
Brian
Cpl
Royal Marines
1960
Walter
Sgt
42 Commando RM 
1962
Thomas
LCpl
40 Commando RM
1967
Ronald
Sgt
29 Commando RA
1965
Michael
Cpl
40 Commando RM 
1964
Edward
Mne
42 Commando RM
1964
Edward
Cpl
45 Commando RM
1964
John
Lieut
41 Commando RM
1964
Robert
Cpl
Royal Marines
1969
Daniel
Lieut
45 Commando RM
1967
David
Mne
45 Commando RM
1965
Roger
Lieut
43 Commando RM
1962
Percival
Mne
45 Commando RM
1968
Michael
LBdr
95 Commando RA
1965
Thomas
Cpl
41 Commando RM
1961
Peter, J.
Mne
HQ, 3 Commando Bde. RM
1969
John
Mne
ITCRM
1968
Michael
Mne
45 Commando RM
1968
Ronald
Cpl
RMB Eastney
1968
James
Mne
45 Commando RM
1961
Fred
Mne
42 Commando RM
1962
Gerald
Mne
43 Commando RM 
1962
Alan
Mne
RM Deal
1961
Reginald
Mne
42 Commando RM
1968
Gareth
Mne
Royal Marines
1969
Cecil
Mne
40 Commando RM
1960
Charles David
Lieut
29 Commando Regt RA
1963
Graham
Lieut
42 Commando RM
1963
Francis
Mne
41 Commando RM
1968
James
Mne
40 Commando RM
1963
Ralph
Mne
40 Commando RM
1961
Michael
Cpl
43 Commando RM
1967
Roy
Mne
45 Commando RM
1963
Albert
Bdr
95 Commando RA
1965
Ernest
Mne
42 Commando RM
1968
Walter
Mne
42 Commando RM
1964
Kenneth
Mne
45 Commando RM
1965
David
Mne
45 Commando RM
1964
Maurice
Mne
43 Commando RM
1962
1970 - 1979
Surname
First name
Rank
Unit
Year
Lennard 
Mne
40 Commando RM 
1972
Thomas
Mne
Commando Log. Regt. RM
1977
David
Cpl
RM Deal
1975
Ian
Cpl
RM Poole
1979
Samuel
Cpl
HQ Commando Forces
1972
Neil
Mne
45 Commando RM
1977
Arthur
Mne
RMB Eastney
1972
Martin
Mne
41 Commando RM
1979
Stephen
Jun. Mne
Royal Marines
1976
John
Mne
45 Commando RM
1972
Duncan
LCpl
40 Commando RM
1977
William
Mne
40 Commando RM
1972
Gerald
CSgt
Commando Log. Regt. RM
1979
Adrian
Cpl
CTCRM
1978
Richard
Jun. Mne
Royal Marines
1972
Grahame
Mne
42 Commando RM
1973
Robert
Gnr
29 Commando Regt. RA
1972
James
Mne
HQ, 3 Commando Cde. RM
1977
Nicholas
Mne
RM Poole
1974
Anthony
Mne
40 Commando RM
1972
Christopher
Cpl
RM Poole / HMS Orpheus
1977
Steven
Mne
Commando Log. Regt. RM
1977
Morris
Cfn
3 Cdo. Bde. Air Sqn. RM
1977
David
Mne
HMS Endurance
1973
Ian
Cpl
HQ, 3 Commando Bde. RM
1972
Hugh
Mne
45 Commando RM
1977
Ian
Mne
40 Commando RM
1977
Alan
Mne
42 Commando RM
1975
Anthony
Mne
Royal Marines
1973
James
Cpl
Royal Marines
1976
Nigel
LCpl
42 Commando RM
1974
Denis
Lieut
HQ, 3 Commando Bde. RM
1973
Robert
Sgt
3 Cdo. Bde. Air Sqn. RM
1972
Barry
Cpl
CTCRM
1979
Melvin
Mne
Commando Log. Regt. RM
1975
Kenneth
Mne
42 Commando RM
1971
Dennis
Cpl
45 Commando RM
1974
Alan
Sgt
45 Commando RM
1972
Duncan
Jun.Mne
Royal Marines
1979
James
Mne
42 Commando RM
1974
William
Capt
Royal Marines
1975
Frederick
CSgt
HQ, 3 Commando Bde. RM
1971
Robert
Cpl
42 Commando RM
1978
Terence
LCpl
41 Commando RM
1977
Charles
Mne
HQ, 3 Commando Bde. RM
1975
John
Cpl
CTCRM
1977
Peter, E.
Sgt
RMB Eastney
1970
Alexander
CSgt
RM Depot
1974
Geoffrey
Sgt
HMS Raleigh
1978
Raymond
Cpl
RM Deal
1977
Alexander
Mne
Commando Log. Regt. RM
1973
Stuart
Lieut
Royal Marines
1971
Derek 
Sgt
HQ 3 Commando Bde. RM
1973
Philip
Gnr
29 Commando Regt. RA
1978
Peter
Lieut
3 Cdo. Bde. Air Sqn. RM
1972
John
Mne
40 Commando RM
1973
Kevin
Gnr
29 Commando Regt. RA
1972
Michael
Mne
45 Commando RM
1974
Allen
Mne
42 Commando RM
1972
John
Cpl
HMS Rooke
1971
Ivor
Sgt
29 Commando RA
1973
Terence
Capt
HQ 3 Commando Bde. RM
1976
Paul
Mne
45 Commando RM
1975
James
Lieut
RM Poole / HMS Orpheus
1977
Graham
Mne
41 Commando RM
1972
Gareth
Mne
42 Commando RM
1978
Bernard
Mne
RMB Eastney
1977

Died in service since 1980

  • Commandos who have died in service since 1980.
  • Those who died during their commando course.
Notes
Click on surname for full details.
This Roll of Honour is not complete as its is in the process of being compiled. 
Contact us if you have information on any individual.
You can also search the ROH by name or date order HERE.
 
"They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old. Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning, We will remember them"
 
1980 - 1989
Surname
First name
Rank
Unit
Year
Alan
Mne
NP 8901
1980
John
Mne
40 Commando RM
1981
David
Mne
RM Poole
1986
Clive
Cpl
HMS Broadsword
1981
William
Mne
40 Commando RM
1986
Stuart
Mne
Commando Log. Regt. RM
1984
Kevin
Jun. Mne.
Royal Marines
1985
Kevin
Mne
CTCRM
1983
Alister
Mne
HMS Warrior
1989
Christopher
CSgt
HQ Plymouth Garrison RM
1985
Dominic
Mne
CTCRM
1986
Nicholas
Mne
Comacchio Gp. RM
1984
Paul
Cpl
HQ 3 Commando bde. RM
1989
Robin
Mne
Commando Log. Regt. RM
1985
John
Mne
539 Assault Sqn. RM
1989
John
LCpl
40 Commando RM
1983
Thomas
Mne
CTCRM
1984
Christopher
Mne
42 Commando RM
1981
Victor
Mne
Commando Log. Regt.RM
1988
Mark
Mne
40 Commando RM
1981
James
Cpl
HQ, 3 Commando Bde. RM
1982
Peter
Mne
45 Commando RM
1982
Paul
Mne
45 Commando RM
1982
Martin
Mne
RM Poole
1985
John
Major
HQ Northern Ireland
1982
William
Sgt
45 Commando RM
1981
Ivor
Cpl
HQ 3 Commando Bde. RM
1985
Colin
LCpl
Commando Log. Regt. RM
1982
Stevan
Mne
3rd Raiding Sqn. RM
1988
Michael
LCpl
45 Commando RM
1986
David
Lieut
45 Commando RM
1980
Nicholas
Cpl
45 Commando RM
1980
Roger
Sgt
45 Commando RM
1982
Russell
Lieut
RM Poole
1989
Andrew
Sgt
45 Commando RM
1982
Kenneth
Cpl
45 Commando RM
1982
Paul
Lieut
45 Commando RM
1980
Simeon
Mne
RM Reserve
1989
Peter
Cpl
45 Commando RM
1982
Michael
Lieut
40 Commando RM
1989
Kenneth
Lieut
3 Cdo. Bde. Air Squadron RM
1982
Kevin
Mne
45 Commando RM
1984
Pradeep
Spr
59 Ind. Commando Sqn. RE
1982
Andrew
Mne
40 Commando RM
1983
Brett
LCpl
3 Cdo. Bde. Air Sqn. RM
1982
Adam
Mne
42 Commando RM
1989
Thomas
Sgt
Royal Marines
1981
Terence
Lieut
40 Commando RM
1985
Robert
Mne
Task Force Landing Craft Sqn.
1982
Raymond
CSgt
Royal Marines
1988
Anthony
Mne
45 Commando RM
1982
Paul
Mne
HQ, 3 Commando Bde. RM
1987
Glenn
Mne
Commando Log. Regt. RM
1983
Peter
Surg.Lieut
42 Commando RM
1983
Kevin
Mne
45 Commando RM
1988
Ian
Sgt
Special Boat Service 
1982
Stephen
Mne
42 Commando RM
1983
Brian
CSgt
Task Force Landing Craft Sqn.
1982
Christopher
Spr
59 Ind.  Commando Sqn. RE
1982
Huw
Capt
Comacchio Coy. RM
1982
Albert
LSgt
RM Poole
1984
Robert
Sgt
45 Commando RM
1982
Christopher
Mne
RM, 846 Naval Air Sqn.
1984
William
Mne
Commando Log. Regt. RM
1986
Clive
Cpl
RM Deal
1984
Kevin
LCpl
40 Commando RM
1984
Michael
Cpl
RM, 846 Naval Air Sqn.
1982
Geoffrey
Capt
Royal Marines
1987
Andrew
Lieut
HQ 3 Commando Bde. RM
1980
Gordon
Mne
45 Commando RM
1982
Stephen
Mne
40 Commando RM
1982
Peter
LCpl
45 Commando RM
1982
Kevin
Lieut
Royal Marines
1986
Michael
Cpl
59 Ind. Commando Sqn. RE
1982
John Peter
SSgt
29 Commando RA
1985
Richard
Mne
Comacchio Coy. RM
1983
Michael
Mne
45 Commando RM
1982
Richard
Lieut
3 Cdo. Bde. Air Sqn. RM
1982
Richard
LBdr
29 Commando Regt. RA
1981
Paul
Mne
Comacchio Gp. RM
1989
Keith
Mne
45 Commando RM
1982
Patrick
Mne
RM Reserve
1985
Richard
Mne
Royal Marines
1988
Duncan
Cpl
HMS Northwood
1980
David
CSgt
RM Poole
1984
Mark
Mne
42 Commando RM
1985
Ronald
Sgt
Task Force Landing Craft Sqn.
1982
Geoffrey
Sgt
42 Commando RM
1984
Anthony
Mne
Task Force Landing Craft Sqn.
1982
Nicholas
Mne
HMS Intrepid
1980
Nicholas
Capt
29 Commando Regt. RA
1985
Dean
LCpl
REME 
1985
Mark
Mne
40 Commando RM
1984
Michael
Sgt
29 Commando Regt. RA
1985
Ian
Lieut
42 Commando RM
1985
Jeremy
Cpl
42 Commando RM
1982
Paul Francis
CSgt
RM Poole
1983
Ian
Cpl
45 Commando RM
1982
David
Sgt
Royal Marines
1989
Richard
Mne
Comacchio Gp. RM
1986
Kenneth
Cpl
Comacchio Gp. RM
1984
Paul
Sgt
CTCRM
1980
Clive
Mne
42 Commando RM
1980
Erroll
WO2
Royal Marines
1988
Michael
Mne
3rd Raiding Sqn. RM
1986
Peter
Mne
539 Assault Sqn. RM
1985
Leslie
Lieut
RNAS Culdrose
1985
Andrew
Cpl
45 Commando RM
1982
Timothy
Mne
CTCRM
1980
Keith
Cpl
45 Commando RM
1983
David
Mne
HQ, 3 Commando Bde. RM
1985
Laurence
Cpl
42 Commando RM
1982
Keith
Sgt
3 Commando Bde. RM
1980
Richard
Mne
40 Commando RM
1983
Mark
Mne
42 Commando RM
1981
John
Sgt
Royal Marines
1980
Douglas
LBdr
29 Commando Regt. RA
1985
David
Mne
45 Commando RM
1982
Barry
Bdr
29 Commando Regt. RA
1989
1990 - 1999
Surname
First name
Rank
Unit
Year
Warrick
Mne
Commando Log. Regt. RM
1994
Michael 
Mne
45 Commando RM
1995
Peter
Mne
40 Commando RM
1997
David
Cpl
3 Commando Bde. RM
1999
Neil
Cpl
Special Boat Service
1994
Aaron
Mne
Comacchio Gp. RM
1999
Christopher
Mne
3 Commando Bde. RM
1995
Nathaniel
Jun. Mne
CTCRM
1998
Glenn
Mne
45 Commando RM
1994
Anthony, C.
Mne
RM Reserve Scotland
1997
Simon
Mne
4 ASRM
1991
Dean
Mne
Commachio Group RM
1995
Andrew
Mne
CTCRM
1997
Mark
Mne
Comacchio Gp. RM
1996
Timothy
Mne
42 Commando RM
1994
Michael
Cpl
42 Commando RM
1994
Damian
Mne
Commando Log. Regt. RM
1997
Kenneth
Mne
42 Commando RM
1993
Martyn
Mne
40 Commando RM
1995
Peter
CSgt
RM Poole
1992
Anthony
LCpl
42 Commando RM
1990
Paul
Mne
RM Reserve 
1997
Andrew
WO2
45 Commando RM
1993
Nigel
Mne
CTCRM
1996
Robert
Cpl
HQ, 3 Commando Bde. RM
1991
Anthony
Mne
Comacchio Gp. RM
1993
David
Mne
Commando Log. Regt. RM
1991
Tony 
Mne
40 Commando RM
1997
John
Mne
RM Reserve
1997
Owen
Mne
RM Poole
1995
Jeffrey
WO2
CTCRM
1998
Kenneth
Mne
RM Poole
1994
Martin
Mne
40 Commando RM
1990
Richard
Sgt
Special Boat Service
1994
Iain
Mne
Commando Log. Regt. RM
1991
Ian
CSgt
42 Commando RM
1995
Colin
CSgt
42 Commando RM
1993
Paul
Sgt
Royal Marines
1991
Mark
Cpl
HQ, Northern Ireland
1995
Ian
Mne
CTCRM
1992
Robin
CSgt
40 Commando RM
1999
Jason
Mne
RM Reserve
1997
Eoghan
Lieut
29 Commando Regt. RA
1990
Brian
Sgt
CTCRM
1992
Mark
Mne
45 Commando RM
1999
Andrew
Mne
RM Poole
1991
David
Mne
Comacchio Gp. RM
1992
NESLEN Paul, John Cpl HQ, 3 Commando Bde. RM 1993
Guy
Mne
Signals Sqn./ HQ 3 Cdo Bde. RM
1999
Keith 
Sgt
CTCRM
1996
Andrew
Cpl
RM Poole
1991
Mark
Lieut
45 Commando RM
1991
Steven
WO1
CTCRM
1992
Robert
Mne
Commando Log. Regt. RM
1993
Matthew
Lieut
40 Commando RM
1997
William
Mne
45 Commando RM
1993
Joel
Mne
CTCRM
1994
Domenico
LCpl
RM Poole
1995
Timothy
Mne
42 Commando
1990
Anthony
Mne
45 Commando RM
1998
Kelvin
Band Sgt.
HMS Raleigh
1996
Ronald
Cpl
Commando Log. Regt RM
1991
Malcolm
WO1
RM Careers Service
1992
Keith
Mne
45 Commando RM
1999
Lee
LCpl
Comacchio Group RM
1994
Grant
Mne
RM Reserve
1998
David
Mne
CTCRM
1998
Stephen
Mne
Royal Marines
1993
Richard
Mne
Royal Marines
1997
Kel
Mne
RM Reserve
1993
Philip
Mne
45 Commando RM
1993
2000 - 2009
Surname
First name
Rank
Unit
Year
Alastair
Mne
Fleet Protection Gp. RM
2005
Robin
Mne
4 ASRM
2003
Anthony
CSgt
Royal Marines
2001
Stephen
Mne
3 Commando Bde. RM
2003
Christopher
Mne
40 Commando RM
2004
Paul
Sgt
Royal Marines
2006
Marc
Mne
Comacchio Gp. RM
2000
Stephen
Mne
Fleet Protection Gp. RM
2005
Martin
Mne
45 Commando RM
2002
Marc
Cpl
45 Commando RM
2008
Thomas
Mne
40 Commando RM
2004
Sean
Mne
40 Commando RM 
2007
Paul
Spr
59 Ind. Commando Sqn., RE
2005
Gordon
LCpl
Assault Group RM
2006
Richard
Mne recruit
CTCRM
2004
John
CSgt
3 Commando Bde. RM
2003
Nigel
Cpl
RM Poole
2009
Ross
LBdr
29 Commando  Regt. RA
2007
Anthony
Mne
42 Commando RM
2004
Paul
Mne
42 Cdo.RM (847 Naval Air Sqn)
2006
Dominic
Capt
CTCRM
2008
Tom
Mne
42 Commando RM
2007
Damian
Mne
Commando Log. Regt RM
2008
Martin 'Marty'
Cpl
1 Assault Group RM / SBS
2006
Robert
Cpl
Commando Log. Regt RM
2008
Darryn
Mne
42 Commando RM
2004
Neil
Mne
3 Commando Bde. RM
2008
James
LBdr
29 Commando Regt. RA
2006
Liam
Cpl
45 Commando RM
2008
Llywelyn
LBdr
29 Commando Regt. RA
2003
Tony
Mne
42 Commando RM
2008
Steven
LCpl
45 Commando RM
2008
Lee
Cpl
Royal Marines
2007
Matthew
LCpl
45 Commando RM 
2007
Daniel
Mne
Comacchio Group RM
2000
Neil
Sgt
1 Assault Group RM
2004
Dale
Mne
Armoured Support Gp. RM
2008
Phillip
Capt
3 Commando Bde. RM
2003
Thomas
Mne
40 Commando RM
2005
James
Mne
Royal Marines
2007
Sholto
Mne
3 Commando Bde RM
2003
Les
Sgt
29 Commando Regt. RA
2003
Simon
Major
40 Commando RM
2004
Craig
Mne
4 Assault Sqn. RM
2006
Jonathan
Mne
45 Commando RM
2007
Lee
Sgt
Special Boat Service
2009
Josh
Mne
40 Commando RM
2008
Jamie
Mne
42 Commando RM
2008
Jason
Mne
539 Assault Sqn. RM
2006
Michael
Cpl
Royal Marines
2007
David
CSgt
3 Commando Bde. RM
2009
KEMP Dylan  Mne 42 Commando RM 2009
Richard
LCpl
42 Commando RM
2007
Michael
Mne
45 Commando RM 
2009
Paul
Mne
40 Commando RM
2002
Aaron
Lieut
29 Commando Regt. RA
2008
Neville
2/Lieut
CTCRM
2007
Alexander
Mne
45 Commando RM
2008
Jason
Mne
Armoured Support Gp. RM
2009
Travis
Mne
45 Commando RM
2009
Ian
Mne
42 Commando RM
2001
Christopher
Mne
9 Assault Sqn. RM
2003
John
Sgt
45 Commando RM
2008
David
Mne
40 Commando RM 2008
2008
Robert
Mne
3 Commando Bde. RM
2008
Liam
LBdr
29 Commando Regt. RA
2007
Daniel
Mne
CTCRM
2006
Phillip
CSgt
RMDIV Leconfield
2003
Damian
Cpl
40 Commando RM
2008
Benjamin
Cpl
45 Commando/539 Assault Sqn. RM
2006
Paul
Sgt
45 Commando RM
2002
Martyn
Mne
Comacchio Group RM
2002
Richard
Col
Royal Marines
2009
Ian
Cpl
Special Boat Service
2003
Benjamin
Mne
Royal Marines
2008
William
LBdr
29 Commando Regt. RA
2005
Mark
Mne
RM Poole
2001
Nathan
Mne
42 Commando RM 
2002
Benjamin
Mne
42 Commando RM 
2007
Robert
LCpl
Armoured Support Gp. RM
2009
Wayne
Mne
CTCRM
2000
Troy
Mne
Royal Marines
2001
Hayden
Mne
42 Commando RM
2006
Stuart
Capt
Royal Marines
2001
Thomas 
Capt
29 Commando Regt. RA
2009
Ian
Op.Mech
attd. 148 Commando Bty. RA
2003
Darren
Mne
45 Commando RM
2009
Michael 
WO2
29 Commando Regt. RA
2007
Philip
Cpl
42 Commando RM
2008
Oliver
Mne
1 Assault Group RM
2006
Georgie
Mne
42 Commando RM
2008
Christian
Mne
RMR Merseyside
2004
Mark 
WO2
3 Commando Bde. RM
2003
Scott
Mne
42 Commando RM
2007
James
Mne
42 Commando RM
2004
John
Lieut
40 Commando RM
2008
Steven
Sgt
Commando Helicopter Force HQ
2000
Richard
Lt. Col
Royal Marines
2005
Johannes
Mne
Commando Log. Regt. RM
2004
Steven
Bdr
29 Commando Regt. RA
2003
Richard
CSgt
RMDIV Leconfield
2005
David
Mne
3 Commando Bde. RM
2005
Jason
Major
3 Commando Bde. RM
2003
Richard
Mne
42 Commando RM 
2006
Kevin
Cpl
42 Commando RM
2000
Benjamin
Mne
42 Commando RM
2008
Jonathan
Mne
45 Commando RM
2006
Michael
Major
CTCRM
2004
Joseph
Mne
3 Commando Bde. RM
2006
Danny
Cpl
45 Commando RM
2009
Gary
Mne
45 Commando RM 
2006
2010 - present
Surname
First name
Rank
Unit
Year
Samuel
Mne
42 Commando RM 
2011
Oliver
Lieut
42 Commando RM
2011
Gary
Major
40 Commando RM / CTCRM
2015
Nicholas
Sgt
Royal Marines
2010
Daniel
Cpl
Royal Marines
2012
Steven
Mne
40 Commando RM
2010
Adam
Mne
40 Commando RM
2010
Philip
Mne
CTCRM
2010
Wesley
Mne
43 Commando RM
2013
Jonathan
Mne
40 Commando RM
2010
Samuel
Mne
Commando Log. Regt RM
2012
Stephen
Cpl
40 Commando RM
2010
Steven
Sgt
40 Commando RM
2010
Andrew
Mne
Motor Transport Troop RM
2015
David 
Mne
42 Commando RM
2011
Martin
Cpl
42 Commando RM
2011
Carl
Mne
45 Commando RM
2010
Christopher
Cpl
40 Commando RM
2010
Matthew
Mne
40 Commando RM
2010
David
Mne
40 Commando RM
2010
Ralph
Mne
45 Commando RM
2013
Ashley
Mne
Royal Marines
2012
Richard
Mne
40 Commando RM
2010
James
Mne
42 Commando RM
2017
Richard
Capt
24 Commando Eng Regt
2013
Matthew
Maj. Gen.
3 Cdo Bde RM
2021
Anthony
Mne
40 Commando RM
2010
Luke
Mne
45 Commando RM
2014
Warren
WO2
29 Commando RA
2011
Gareth
Lieut
CTCRM
2015
Tomasz
Capt
Royal Marines
2011
Ethan
Mne Recruit
CTCRM
2020
Jonathan
Mne Recruit
CTCRM
2017
Menzies
Cpl
45 Commando RM
2012
Carl
Capt
Royal Marines
2012
Benjamin
Mne
3 Cdo Bde RM
2018
Nigel
Mne
42 Commando RM
2011
Damien
Lieut
40 Commando RM
2013
David
Cpl
40 Commando RM
2012
David
Mne
Royal Marines
2012
Jamie
Mne
45 Commando RM
2013
Adam
Mne
40 Commando RM
2011
Andrew
Sgt
Royal Marines 
2010
James
Capt
Royal Marines
2011
David
Capt
29 Commando RA
2016
Seth
Cpl
Royal Marines
2010
Michael
Capt
45 Commando RM 
2010
Benjamin
LCpl
Royal Marines
2011
Luke
Sgt
Royal Marines
2012
Michael
LCpl
40 Commando RM
2010
Scott
Mne
40 Commando RM
2010
William
Mne
RM Poole
2017
Bradley
Tpr
22 SAS (29 Cdo Regt RA)
2010
Alexander
Mne
Royal Marines
2018
Stephen
Cpl
40 Commando RM 
2010
Paul
Mne
40 Commando RM
2010
Barry
Sgt
42 Commando RM
2011
Clifford
WO2
Royal Marines
2016
Aaron
CSgt
CTCRM
2013
Christopher
 
3 Cdo Bde RM
2023
Paul
Mne
Royal Marines
2012
James
Mne
42 Commando RM
2011
Michael
LCpl
Commando Log. Regt. RM
2015

'3 Cdo Bde leave Far East 1971'

3 Commando Brigade RM leave the Far East
The following signal was received on April 2, 1971
"For Brigade Commander and all ranks from Commander Far East Land Forces. Your Brigade has been overseas for the past twenty-eight years. Much of this time has been on active service. After your fine Parade on March 18, and before the Main Body begins the homeward journey, I would like to express my appreciation of the splendid way in which you have carried out the many and varied tasks allotted to you during the last eleven years under Far East Land Forces. Your distinguished record is one of which all can be proud. I wish all ranks and their families God speed, happy landings and good fortune wherever the future may lead".
 
Timeline
3 Commando Brigade, Royal Marines, was originally formed as 3rd Special Service Brigade on 31 August 1943 at Dorchester.
After moving to Canterbury about half of the Brigade troops moved for their Commando training to Achnacarry. It was fully mobilised by November 6, 1943 under the command of Brigadier W. I. Nonweiler [more....].
The Brigade, at the time of formation, consisted of No.1 (Army) Commando and No.5 (Army) Commando (both formed in 1940),  and 42 Royal Marine Commando and 44 Royal Marine Commando, Royal Marines (both formed in August 1943).
  • November 1943 the Brigade sailed for the Far East where it saw action in Burma.
  • November 1944 Colonel Peter Young [more....], who had arrived to take up the post of Brigade second in command, temporarily became Brigade Commander on the departure of Brigadier Nonweiler.
  • December 1944 Brigadier C.R. Hardy [more....] arrives and assumes command of the Brigade.
  • 31st January 1945 Nos 1 and 5 (Army) Commandos and 42RM Commando take part in the Battle for Hill 170 at Kangaw.
  • Lieutenant George Knowland No. 1 (Army) Commando is posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross [more....].
  • 1945 the Brigade took part in the reoccupation of Hong Kong.
  • Commencing in March 1946 the Army Commandos of the Brigade were disbanded .
  • 44RM Commando was redesignated 44 Commando RM , then further redesignated 40 Commando RM on the 15th March 1947. [ref. RMRO 141 of 1947.]
  • The Brigade, now designated as 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines, was reformed with 40, 42 and 45 Commandos RM.
  • 1947 the Brigade moved to Malta where they remained till July 1949, during which time they carried out Internal Security duties in Palestine, Tripoli, Benghazi, the Canal Zone, Cyprus and Akaba.
  • August 1949 they returned to Hong Kong when the Chinese Communists threatened the colony.
  • May 1950, the Brigade were sent to Malaya where they fought the terrorists until May 1952 before returning to Malta as the Middle East strategic reserve.
During the next nine years they were involved in internal security duties in the Canal Zone, anti-terrorist operations in Cyprus and led the Suez landings.
  • 45 Commando were detached to Aden in 1960 until the withdrawal in 1967;
  • 42 Commando, who had been in UK  since 1954 except for the Port Said and Lebanon crises, left for Singapore in 1960 where they were rejoined by HQ, 3rd Commando Brigade (1961) and 40 Commando (1962).
  • Subsequently the Brigade saw active service in Kuwait, Borneo and Southern Malaysia, whilst 45 Commando were involved in the Radfan, Tanganyika and the withdrawal from Aden.
HQ 3 Commando Brigade returned in 1971 to occupy the Royal Marines Barracks, Stonehouse.
 
Sources
Navy Lists August 1943 (see documents below).
Globe and Laurel June 1971 edition.
The Third Jungle Book issue 9.
 

'Post war History and Training 1946 - present'

The following pages will tell you a little about current Commando training for the Royal Marines, and the All Arms Commando Course for the other Services of today, but first read about the changes the Commandos went through post war.

In 1946 a decision was made to disband the Army Commandos. Demobilization commenced almost immediately with some Commando Units being merged for short periods as numbers dwindled. The Commando Basic Training Centre at Achnacarry was closed and returned to the Lochiel. The task of maintaining the proud tradition that the Army Commandos had done so much to create was passed to the Royal Marines.

There is a small memorial of a Commando Soldier in Westminster Abbey. The quotation below this memorial speaks for all wartime Commandos: 

"They performed whatsoever the King commanded"


The RM Commandos did not escape the cutbacks being reduced from nine units down to just three. The existing 3 Commando Brigade was reformed as 3 Commando Brigade, Royal Marines. In 1947 the Brigade consisted of 40 Commando ( formed from the disbanded 44RM Commando), 42 Commando, and 45 Commando. 

Unlike in WW2, nowadays all Royal Marines are Commando trained. However this did not occur immediately.  Throughout the 50's and 60's recruits attended the Infantry Training Centre, Royal Marines at Lympstone. Once finished their infantry training, Marines had a choice of of going either on the Commando course, or on a Gunnery Course and going to sea on “Big Ships”.

On Friday 25th November 1960 universal wearing of green beret was ordered.
"Previously only worn by ranks serving in Commando Units or the Commando School, the Green beret is now to be issued to ORs of the RMBS and Buglers on attaining Adult 1st Class status or on first draft to an HM Ship, RN Establishment, or Commando Unit or formation - whichever is sooner. After issue green beret will be part of compulsory kit. RM and RM Band Officers are to provide themselves with the green beret when required." [1].
 

Eventually a decision was made for all Royal Marines to be Commando trained and in 1972 the name of the training centre at Lympstone was changed to the Commando Training Centre, Royal Marines (CTCRM). 

Veterans wear the blue beret with red patch just as proudly as Commandos  who wear the green beret. These days the former is worn in service only by recruits, often harmlessly referred to in the past as Nods or Winks.

Today the CTCRM delivers training recruitment and selection, recruit and Officer training, leadership and career training for the Royal Marines, as well as Commando training for the rest of UK Defence.

Additionally Army Commando units have again returned. During 1962, 29 Field Regiment RA were deployed with 25 Pounder guns in Aden and Kuwait, deterring Iraq from invading the oil fields. On the back of these deployments, the Regiment was re-roled as Commando Artillery. The newly formed 29 Commando Regiment RA trained for and passed the All Arms Commando Course at the Training Centre Royal Marines Lympstone. It was a proud and historic moment when the first Army Commandos since the end of the War received their Green Berets on 15 May 1962.

24 Commando Engineer Regiment and 131 Independent Commando Squadron Royal Engineers (V) provide integral engineer support to 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines. Currently 24 Cdo RE consists of 54 Commando Headquarters and Support Squadron RE and 59 Commando Squadron RE, as well as 131 Independent Commando Squadron Royal Engineers.  

Today's Commando Logisitic Support Squadron can trace its Commando roots back to the 8th May 1964 when four Officers and 24 RAOC storemen and clerks completed their commando training and were awarded their Green Berets as part of the new 3 Commando Brigade Ordnance Field Park. Changing its name in 1972 to the Commando Ordnance Squadron, then being renamed again as the Commando Logisitic Squadron in 1996.

Sources:
CVA / Royal Navy / MOD.
[1] RM Historical Timeline - website royal-marines.net
 

Read on from the link below ......

Training Centres 1946 - present

1946 to present day

In 1946 all the Army Commando units were disbanded and the Commando role was taken over by the Royal Marines. Additionally five of the eight RM Commando Units that were in existence were disbanded. The remaining three units were redesignated as 40 Commando RM, 42 Commando RM, and 45 Commando RM, and were grouped together to form the new 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines. The Commando Basic Training Centre at Achnacarry closed.

Commando School

Those Royal Marines selected for specialised Commando training now attended the Commando School initially located at Towyn in Wales, then relocated in 1947 to Bickleigh in Plymouth. In 1954 it was moved to the ITC Lympstone.

Infantry Training Centre, Lympstone (ITCRM)

The base for the initial training for all Royal Marines. Not all Royal Marines received Commando training at this time.

Commando Training Centre Royal Marines (CTCRM)

In the early 70's it was decided that all Royal Marines should be Commando trained. Commando training was centralised at Lympstone, and the ITCRM was re-designated as the CTCRM.

'Post war Commando School RM'

After the war ended and Achnacarry closed, those Royal Marines selected for specialised Commando training attended the Commando School initially located at Towyn in Wales, then relocated in 1947 to Bickleigh in Plymouth. In 1954 it was moved to the ITC Lympstone.

'Commando Training Centre RM'

The Commando Training Centre, also known as CTCRM, is the principal training centre for the Royal Marines.

Based at Lympstone in Devon CTCRM selects and trains all Royal Marines Officers, recruits and reserves. CTCRM is unique in that it also provides all Non Commissioned Officer (NCO) command training as well as training 70% of all Royal Marines specialists.

On average, 1,300 recruits, 2,000 potential recruits and 400 potential officers attend training courses and acquaint courses at CTCRM every year. In addition the Training Wings run upwards of 320 courses a year for a further 2,000 students.
 
At the end of their course they have to pass the four Commando Tests.
 

[Source: royalnavy.mod.uk]


Are you ready for Royal Marines Commando training ? The current training programme

[view .....].

Serving in the Navy, Army, Air Force and ready for the All Arms Commando Course ?   
[view .....].

'The Four Commando Tests'

The tests below were accurate in 2013. To check on current requirements as well as how to prepare visit the Ministry of Defence Royal Navy website pages highlighted.


At the end of Royal Marines training recruits need to pass four Commando tests in the space of a week. All tests are completed carrying 21 lbs of equipment and a rifle.

The Commando Tests include an Endurance Course, a 9 mile speed march, a Tarzan Assault course and a 30 mile speed march across Dartmoor.

On the Saturday they complete a six-mile endurance course which is a series of tunnels including a short-water tunnel followed by a four-mile run back to Commando Training Centre Royal Marines. A version of this test without equipment is done annually by thousands of civilians for charity during the Commando Challenge.

On Monday morning the recruits do a nine mile speed march in 90 minutes. Speed marching is a combination of running and marching.

On Tuesday morning the recruits do the Tarzan Assault course. They have already passed the Assault course in five minutes in week 20 of training.  The Tarzan course is a high obstacle confidence course which recruits have five minutes to pass. This third test requires them to combine the Tarzan and Assault courses and they have 13 minutes to complete it which means they have to go flat out the whole way round.

After this they only have one more test to pass – a simple 30 mile march across Dartmoor. The 30 mile speed march starts at the north end of Dartmoor and finishes near Plymouth. Recruits have eight hours to complete this test and will carry about 40 lbs of equipment.

If they have passed all the tests they are presented with their Green Berets at the end of the speed march.

Source and details valid as at December 2013: Royal Navy / MOD
 

The All Arms Commando Course

A brief insight into the All Arms Commando Course.

12 weeks (including 4 weeks preparatory course)
Location : Commando Training Centre Royal Marines
Pre Commando Course (PCC)
With sponsor units 29 Cdo RA, 24 Cdo RE

AIM OF COURSE

To prepare Navy, Army or Air Force personnel for service with 3 Cdo Bde RM 
by developing the temperament, mental resolve, physical robustness and core 
military skills necessary in the demanding environment of expeditionary and 
littoral operations.

OUTLINE SYLLABUS 

Field craft & tactics
Signals
First Aid, health & hygiene
Map reading & navigation
Organisation & role of Commando forces
Skill at Arms with troop weapons
Physical fitness
Amphibious training
Vertical assault

ENTRY STANDARDS

Pass Royal Marines Battle Fitness Test (BFT) on joining course
Pass Combat Fitness Test (CFT) within 1 month of joining course
Swim 60 metres in clothing, tread water for 3 minutes, having entered water from 3 metres
Climb 30ft (9.2m) rope whilst wearing equipment weighing 6.8kg on joining course
Pass Weapons Handling Tests on personal weapon to a skilled standard on joining course

EXAMINATIONS / QUALIFICATIONS GAINED

Twelve miles (19km) load carry (with equipment weighing 31.3kg and 
personal weapon) at night as a formed body within the time limit of 4 hours
Tarzan / Assault course in 13 minutes with equipment weighing 9.6kg and 
carrying personal weapon
Six mile Endurance Course in 73 minutes with equipment weighing 9.6kg 
and carrying personal weapon
Nine mile speed march in 90 minutes as a formed body with equipment 
weighing 9.6kg and carrying personal weapon
Final exercise testing basic military tactics (m ap reading, amphibious skills, 
endurance and stamina)
March 30 miles in 8 hours with equipment weighing 9.6kg and carrying 
personal weapon and safety stores on a given Dartmoor route as a syndicate

REMARKS

Emphasis is on fitness & stamina. All students must be physically prepared on arrival. The 4 week Preparation Course run by one of the 2 sponsor units takes place at Oakhampton Battle Camp or RMB Chivenor immediately precedes the AACC and provides for the essential preparation including weapons familiarisation.

Source & Photos: CVA

Read about the origins of the green beret here: History of the Commando Green Beret


For more precise information about the AACC watch the video from the link below right ......

'P.R.M.C.'

Latest from the M.O.D.

The joining process for Royal Marines Commandos is necessarily rigorous. Like any physical and mental test, being prepared will give you the best chance of success. This section gives you more details about the Naval Service Recruit Test, the Pre-Joining Fitness Test - Plus, and the Royal Marine Candidate Preparation Course [more.....].

'View of Commando training in 1973'

Extract from Comando Association newsletter 56 issued March 1973.
 
We feel sure Members will be interested to have news of Major General John Owen, O.B.E., who served during the war in No. 44 RM. Cdo, and who now commands the Commando Forces,  Royal Marines. from his Headquarters in Plymouth. In conjunction with Colonel Derek Pounds [more...], who was an instructor at Achnacarry, and who has kindly compiled a few notes on present-day Commando training,  John has added notes on the present organisation of Commando Forces, and we have no doubt that many members will enjoy reading just how our successors are progressing.
 
Teaching the new dog old tricks
Cornmando Training at Achnacarry during World War II evolved almost directly from the methods used by Sir John Moore in training light infantry at Shorncliffe, prior to the Peninsular War. Both systems aimed at teaching trained men how to become highly efficient infantrymen, capable of fighting alone or in small groups and using speed, lightness and mobility to achieve surprise and success. 
 
Commando training at CTCRM Lympstone is designed to achieve the same end as in World War II, with the exception that there is greater emphasis on marksmanship, tactical knowledge and understanding of the social environment in which men are likely to operate. Marines are given basic training for 24 weeks, joining as recruits direct from civil life and being awarded the Green Beret after 14 weeks and the commando shoulder insignia after passing out as King's Squad.
 
The tests and times parallel those of Achnacarry days, but the training is systematic and assessed step-by-step to limit wastage through minor injuries. The training is as demanding as anything done at Achnacarry, but the living conditions are vastly superior and the men recuperate quickly in good surroundings. Sailors, soldiers and airmen who are destined in serve in Commando Forces come as trained officers and men and undergo a six-week course to gain the knowledge and skills needed to earn a Green Beret. This course is nearer to the Achnacarry course in design and content.
 
Which is tougher, Achnacarry or Lympstone ?
Our assessment is that the former was more arduous and unpleasant because of the indifferent living conditions. Training at Lympstone is equally demanding, covers a variety of subjects, aims at producing the " whole man " and is probably more stimulating and interesting. The end product from Lympstone is a man who is highly competent, well motivated and a worthy successor to his Achnacarry predecessors.
 
Teaching the old dog new tricks
Perhaps nowhere more than in the field of defence have we, as a country, learned to look towards Europe (NATO) as the focus of our activities in the future. Since 1968 all United Kingdom Amphibious Forces, that is the ships, commandos and helicopters, have been declared to NATO. The special characteristics of commandos make them ideally suited for operations in the rugged terrain of, for example, Norway or Turkey, on NATO's northern and southern flanks. One commando group is socially trained and equipped for mountain and arctic warfare and could, if required, operate during the height of an arctic winter. 
 
Despite this emphasis on possible operations in concert with our NATO allies, today's Commando Forces may still be called upon to provide units to meet certain national contingency plans. All ex-commando readers will also be aware that commando units have operated in Northern Ireland since the emergency began in 1969. These changes of role and emphasis have inevitably brought about changes in our organisation. Like the remainder of the Services, we have learned to live with the 3-Rs of postwar life-Realism, Rationalisation and Re-organisation. This has tailbred and streamlined our organisations to meet the new situations. This has resulted in specialist units being formed of commando gunners, commando sappers and more recently commando logisticians. The last being a mixture of Royal Marines, RAOC., RCT.. REME.. RAPC, and the Naval Medical Branch.
 
Under HQ Commando Forces in Plymouth, the principle formation is 3 Commando Brigade RM., consisting of a Headquarters and 40, 41 and 42 Commandos, plus 29 Commando Light Regiment RA. and 59 Independent Commando Squadron RE. There is also the Commando Logistic Regiment. All these units, with the exception of 41 Commando, are based in the West Country. Adjacent to training areas, a mounting port and helicopter bases. 41 Commando is now based in Malta. 45 Commando Group is based at Arbroath in Scotland where mountain and arctic warfare training using the Cairngorms and Norway, can best be done.  Also under command is 95 Forward Observation Unit RA., based at Poole, which provides naval gunfire spotting teams. Finally, a Raiding Squadron equipped with small high-speed raiding craft is also part of Commando Forces. Special Boat Sections are attached to Commando Forces when necessary.
 
In the post-war years, Commando Forces have largely been concerned with United Kingdom commitments in the Far and Middle East. We now find ourselves in a different league as part of a larger NATO amphibious force, facing a sophisticated and well-equipped enemy. These changes have posed, and will continue to pose, a major challenge to today's proud wearers of the Green Beret. We may have put on a bit of chainmail, but we are as active, fit and determined as ever.
 

Falklands Campaign - Operation Corporate

Date commenced: 
Friday, April 2, 1982
The Falklands Conflict - an undeclared war.
Operation Corporate 2nd April 1982 - 14th June 1982.
A report by Admiral Sir John Fieldhouse G.C.B., G.B.E., Commander of the Task Force Operations in the South Atlantic April to June 1982. 

The despatch describes briefly the very short period of preparation for sending Task Force 317 to the South Atlantic and, more fully, the operations from 1 April 1982 when units of the Fleet sailed south until 20 June 1982 when the last Argentine forces remaining on British Territory surrendered. [Read the full report in the London Gazette.....].

3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines 

Brigadier J. H. A. Thompson, C.B., O.B.E., A.D.C.

 Commando Units Officers Commanding
3 Commando Bde. HQ and Signal Sqn. R.M. Maj. R.C. Dixon, R.M.
40 Commando R.M. Lt. Col. M.P.J. Hunt, O.B.E., R.M.
42 Commando R.M. Lt. Col. N.F. Vaux, D.S.O., R.M.
45 Commando R.M. Lt. Col. A.F. Whitehead, D.S.O., R.M.
Commando Logistic Regiment R.M. Lt. Col. I.J. Hellberg, O.B.E., R.C.T.
29 Commando Regiment R.A. Lt. Col. M.J. Holroyd-Smith, O.B.E., R.A.
59 Independent Commando Sqn., R.E. Maj. R. Macdonald, R.E.
Commando Medical Squadron  Surgeon Commander R.T. Jolly, O.B.E.
3 Commando Bde., Air Sqn., R.M. Maj. C.P. Cameron, M.C., R.M.
1st Raiding Sqn., R.M. Capt. F.I.J. Baxter, R.M.
Special Boat Sqn., R.M. Maj. J.J. Thomson, O.B.E., R.M.
3 Commando Bde., Air Defence Troop, R.M. Lt. I.L.Dunn, R.M.
Y Troop, R.M. Capt. G.D. Corbett, R. Sigs.
Field Records Office, Drafting and Records Office, R.M. Capt. J.R. Hancock, R.M.
The Band of HM Royal Marines Commando Forces Capt. J.M. Ware, L.R.A.M., R.M.
The Band of HM Royal Marines Flag Officer 3rd Flotilla WO2 (B) T. Attwood, L.R.A.M., A.R.C.M., RM

Falklands Commando Roll of Honour since 1969 - [view....]
 

40 Commando RM

Formed on the 14th February 1942 as The Royal Marine Commando, Royal Marines. It was briefly re-designated as Royal Marine Commando (A), Royal Marines, when a second RM Commando was raised, before finally designated as 40 Royal Marine Commando, Royal Marines. Notable actions during WW2 were at Dieppe, St Benere, Termoli, Anzio, and Comacchio.
  • 40RM Commando, and the slightly later formed 41RM Commando, would be the only RM Commando units to consist entirely of volunteers. All Army Commandos were volunteers.
  • Early October 1945 40RM Commando was disbanded [more....].
  • 16 March 1947 the then 44 Commando of 3 Commando Brigade RM was re-designated as 40 Commando RM. The intention being to perpetuate a Commando representative of the Dieppe raid and the Italian theatre of war, and to recognise their contribution to the Allied victory in Europe as with that of 45 Commando, combined with 42 Commando's contribution to Allied victory in the Far East.
  • January 1948, 40 Commando were sent to Haifa during the Arab Israeli War. It was followed by the two other commando units in the new 3 Commando Brigade RM.
  • The Commando has since served with distinction across the Globe from bases in Malta, Cyprus, and the UK, including Hong Kong, Palestine, Malaya, Cyprus, Suez, Brunei and Borneo, Northern Ireland, the Falklands, Iraq, and Afghanistan [more....].

Below is a video of 40 Commando RM in Borneo 1964.

'41 Independent Commando RM'

In October 1942 the 8th RM Battalion was disbanded and those who volunteered for, and passed the training, formed a new 41RM Commando.  The Commando saw service in WW2 at Sicily and Salerno, Normandy and Walcheren, and the advance through Holland into West Germany. At the end of the war 41 RM Commando was disbanded.

In August 1950 a new 41 Independent Commando was formed at Bickleigh specifically for the war in Korea.  It was completely equipped by United States forces on its arrival in Japan and was commanded by Lieut. Col. D.B. Drysdale DSO, OBE, RM, [view] in the first instance, and later by Lieut. Col. F.N. Grant RM.

During its service in Korea the Commando carried out a number of successful amphibious raids on the Korean coastline, chiefly with the object of destroying the coastal communications. At the same time it succeeded in tying up large Communist forces in coastal defence. When the Chinese entered the war the Commando was attached to the 1st US Marine Division USMC, and it took part with this Division in the historic breakout from the Chosin Reservoir in December 1950.

Less than 18 months after it was formed this now famous Commando was disbanded on 22nd February 1952. Some of the men were transferred to the 3rd Commando Brigade in Malaya, ten officers and a hundred-and-thirty men returned home in the Empire Orwell *.

In 1957 it was awarded a United States Presidential Unit Citation for services with the 1st Division United States Marine Corps seven years earlier at the Chosin Reservoir,  North Korea.

In 1960 41 Commando RM was reformed and saw service in Northern Ireland and with the UN Forces in Cyprus until it was again disbanded in 1980.


The Commando Roll of Honour for Korea [View here]

View  Gallery images of RM Commandos post WW2

* Globe and Laurel, March-April 1952 edition.

'Parliamentary response about Commandos in Korea'

Extract from Hansards of part of a reply by to a Parliamentary question in the House of Commons on Royal Marine Commando Operations in Korea. 
 
Source
HC Deb 13 December 1950 vol 482 cc1143-6.

Mr. Driberg asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty if he will publish in HANSARD a summary account of the part so far played in the Korean campaign by the 41st Independent Commando, Royal Marines, including a statement on the present whereabouts and function of this unit and the number of casualties sustained.

Mr. Callaghan - "Yes, Sir. I am arranging for this to be done."

"Following is the table:

Mr. Driberg - "Without raising undue hopes, can my hon. Friend say whether the news announced last Friday afternoon, that a number of Marines who had been thought lost had, in fact, been rescued, may enable him to diminish somewhat the terribly long list of those missing which was published earlier the same day?

Mr. Callaghan  - "I am afraid not. No operational reports have yet been received about this fighting. I can say, however, that seven other ranks who were reported missing are now known to have been either wounded or killed. That is as far as I can go. "

"Following is the account:

41st Independent Commando R.M. (Lieut.- Colonel D. B. Drysdale, M.B.E., R.M.) arrived in Japan by air in early September as the result of a request from the American naval commander in the Far East for troops for special commando type operations against North Korea. Several Naval and Marine volunteers from the Far East Fleet joined up with the Commando on its arrival. The unit was completely equipped by the Americans whilst in Japan.
 
Within four days of their arrival in Japan a detachment of the Commando—1 officer and 14 other ranks—left to take part in an operation in the Inchon area. They left Japan on 10th September with a Special Operations company of the U.S. Army and took part in a beach reconnaisance on the night of 12/13th September to the south of Inchon. On 18th September the detachment landed at Inchon with the U.S. Special Operations company and subsequently took part in several successful operations in the Seoul area. The detachment returned to Japan on 2nd October.
 
The Commando then came under the command of the Commander Naval Forces Far East (Admiral Joy U.S.N.) and made three successful raids on the East Coast of Korea from U.S. ships.
 
The first raid took place on the night of lst/2nd October and was against enemy railway communications North East of Shako. Four officers and 63 other ranks were landed, including the commanding officer. A section of the embankment under the railway line was demolished and two tunnels were mined. During this raid minor opposition from poorly armed police was encountered. One Marine was killed [more...].
 
The second raid was on the night of 6th/7th October, when two troops of the Commando landed under the command of Major D. L. St. M. Aldridge, R.M., at Churonjang. A rail and road tunnel was blown up with two tons of explosive and completely blocked. One non-commissioned officer was killed during this raid [more...].
 
The third raid took place on the following night (7th/8th October) when the same two troops, who had landed the previous night, landed again. This raid was directed against a rail and road bridge and a tunnel and resulted in the bridge being blown and the tunnel partially blocked. Minor opposition was encountered and a tunnel guard shot. There were no casualties to the landing forces.
 
In these three raids from United States ships the greatest possible co-operation was given by the captains, officers and ships' companies of the ships concerned.
 
The Commando concentrated as a complete unit in Japan on 14th October, 1950, and carried out a period of training.
 
On 16th November the Commando left Japan to join the First Marine Division (U.S. Marine Corps) in the Chosin reservoir area. They had to fight their way up Hungnam-Hagaru Road and suffered fairly heavy casualties in the process; they have now been successful in fighting their way back to Hungnam: no operational reports have yet been received on the latest fighting.
 
The Commando is still serving with the First Marine Division. The casualties so far reported, including those mentioned above, are:
 
Officers:
Killed in Action 1
Wounded in Action 2
Missing 1
Other ranks:
Killed in Action 12
Wounded in Action 33
Missing 26
 
The next-of-kin have been informed."

View the Commando ROH for Korea [HERE].
 

'Unit Citation 41 Ind. Cdo RM' image

Presentation of the United States of America Presidential Unit Citation for 41 Independent Commando RM at the American Embassy 1957. Photo courtesy of Bob Carr USMC via Glenn Eves.

41 Commando RM

In October 1942 the 8th RM Battalion was disbanded and those who volunteered for, and passed the training, formed a new 41RM Commando. At the end of the war 41 RM Commando was disbanded.

In 1950 a new 41 Independent Commando was formed at Bickleigh before deploying to the war in Korea. Awarded a United States Presidential Unit Citation for services with the 1st Division United States Marine Corps at the Chosin Reservoir,  North Korea, Nov/Dec. 1950. The Commando returned to Bickleigh to be disbanded there in 1952.

On the 31st March 1960, 41 Commando RM was reformed at Bickleigh. [1]  The Unit saw service in Northern Ireland and with the UN Forces in Cyprus. The Unit was made non-operational on 20 May 1981 and on 5 August, Lt Col M J Reece OBE RM relinquished his appointment as the Commanding Officer. The Unit was again disbanded [2].

Sources
[1] RMRO 21 dated 1960.
[2] Royal Marines Museum.
 

Gallery images of RM Commandos post WW2

'42 Commando RM'

Formed in August 1943 from the disbanded 1st RM Battalion, the Commando saw service in India and Burma. 42 RM Commando took part in the Battle of Kangaw on the 31st January 1945.

Redesignated 42 Commando RM early in 1946, having been 42 RM Commando (Light) since August 1945. Postwar, the Commando operated across the Globe with combat operations in Malaya, Suez, Borneo and Brunei, Northern Ireland, the Falklands, Iraq, and Afghanistan.

42 Commando Royal Marines have been based at Bickleigh Barracks just outside Plymouth, Devon, since the 16th September 1971.

Gallery images of RM Commandos post WW2

'Limbang Hostage Rescue'

Date commenced: 
Wednesday, December 12, 1962
In December 1962 a revolt broke out in Brunei, North Borneo, and 42 Commando, in Singapore at the time, was flown to Labuan and given the task of clearing Brunei Bay. 
 
'L' Company was detached to try to release eight European hostages, including a district officer, from the town of Limbang, which was held by a strong force of rebels. 
 
Assaulting from river craft, 'L' Company secured Limbang and released the hostages in 20 minutes. In that short time five Royal Marines died (see names below) and six were wounded. Four members of the Sarawak Constabulary also died and twenty rebels were killed in the engagement. 
 
A Memorial at Limbang was unveiled on the 3rd August 1963.  It is located on the riverfront opposite the police station [view in gallery....].
 
Sources
[Image] The funeral of Marine Gerald 'Scouse' Kierans officiated by Father O'Connor with members of 'L' Company [more photos in gallery....].
 

43 Commando RM

-Formed in August 1943 as 43 RM Commando from Marines from the disbanded 2nd RM Battalion, the Commando saw service as part of 2 Commando Brigade until the end of the war when it was disbanded. 

43 Commando RM was re–formed on the 5th September 1961 at  Stonehouse Barracks Plymouth under the command of Lieut. Col.  Willasey-Wilsey MBE,MC,RM. [1] and remained operational until disbanded again at Eastney on the 1st October 1968 [2]

43 Commando RM was more recently reformed as 43 Commando Fleet Protection Group Royal Marines. It is the largest in the Corps and is responsible for protecting the nation’s nuclear deterrent as well as taking the fight to modern-day pirates in specialist boarding teams.

Historical note  
Associated units - Comacchio Company Royal Marines (1980–1983), Comacchio Group Royal Marines (1983–2001) and Fleet Protection Group Royal Marines (2001-2012)
 
Sources
[1] RMRO 154 dated 1961
[2] RMRO 192 dated 1968
 

Gallery images of RM Commandos post WW2

'Comacchio Company RM'

Comacchio Company Royal Marines existed between 1980 and 1983 and was responsible for protecting the nation’s nuclear deterrent. It was later redesignated Comacchio Group Royal Marines (1983–2001) and  then Fleet Protection Group Royal Marines in 2001. In 2012 it was formally redesignated again as 43 Commando RM.

'Comacchio Group RM'

Comacchio Group RM was responsible from 1983 for protecting the nation’s nuclear deterrent. It's predecessor was Comacchio Company Royal Marines. In 2001 it was redesignated Fleet Protection Group Royal Marines which in turn became 43 Commando RM in 2012.

'Fleet Protection Group RM'

Fleet Protection Group Royal Marines exsited between 2001 to 2012 and was responsible for protecting the nation’s nuclear deterrent. Prior to that it was known as Comacchio Company  (1980-83) and Comacchio Group (1983 - 2001). In 2012 it was formally redesignated as 43 Commando RM, the largest in the Core, and has the combined role of protecting the nation’s nuclear deterrent as well as taking the fight to modern-day pirates in specialist boarding teams. 

'45 Commando RM'

Formed as 45 RM Commando in August 1943 from the disbanded 5th RM Battalion. World War 2 operations included the Normandy landings and the crossings of the rivers Rhine, Weser, Aller and Elbe. Redesignated 45 Commando RM in March 1946.

Read the WW2 history of the unit here [45RM Commando history].

The Commando was one of the three RM Commando Units not disbanded after the war.  On 31 january 1946, at Chatham, 45 embarked on board the aircraft carrier HMS Rajah for the Far East arriving at Port Said on 11 February and Singapore on 1 March. They arrived at Kowloon on 7 March.*

It was redesignated as 45 Commando Royal Marines in March 1946.

The post-war years saw the Commando deployed on operations to Palestine, Suez, Malaya, Aden and Cyprus. The Commando finally returned to the UK in 1967 after 24 years operational service abroad and moved to its current base in Arbroath in 1971.

Since then they have been deployed in Northern Ireland, and, in 1982, the Commando took part in Operation Corporate, the recapture of the Falkland Islands. In 1991 the Commando deployed to Northern Iraq on a humanitarian assistance mission and in 1994 it was dispatched to reinforce the Kuwaiti border against renewed Iraqi aggression. More recently the Commando has been deployed on operations in Afghanistan.

* The book  45 - The Story of 45 Commando Royal Marines 1943-1971, author David Young

Gallery images of RM Commandos post WW2

'29 Commando Regiment RA'

The first Army Commandos were raised by a Gunner, Lt Col John Durnford-Slater RA in June 1940, following the defeat ending with the evacuation at Dunkirk, The Commandos struck at the German forces at a time when Britain was otherwise powerless. Raids were made on the coasts of Norway, France and the Mediterranean. By the time of the Normandy landings of 6 June 1944, the Commando forces were of a considerable size and had played a vital part on operations in all theatres of war.

After the Second World War the Commando role passed entirely to the Royal Marines, the Royal Navy’s amphibious infantry. Army Commando units ceased to exist. In the late 1950s, Britain’s defence policy began to stress the importance of a worldwide maritime strategy. The Royal Navy commissioned Commando Carriers such as HMS Bulwark and HMS Albion. The Royal Marines, who no longer had their own artillery decide that they required support from an Army artillery Regiment.

During 1962, 29 Field Regiment RA were deployed with 25 Pounder guns in Aden and Kuwait, deterring Iraq from invading the oil fields. On the back of these deployments, the Regiment was chosen to re-role as Commando Artillery. The men of the newly formed 29 Commando Regiment RA trained for and passed the All Arms Commando Course at Commando Training Centre Royal Marines Lympstone. It was a proud and historic moment when the first Army Commandos since the end of the War received their Green Berets on 15 May 1962. The 25 Pounders in service with the Regiment at that time were then replaced by the 105mm Pack Howitzer. In 1965, 95 Commando (Light) Regiment, Royal Artillery, was formed. In 1971 95 Commando joined with 29 Commando.

Since this time, 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery has deployed around the globe as part of 3 Commando Brigade. Over the last 43 years the Regiment has operated in every major conflict the Brigade has been involved in. This has included Brunei (1962), Borneo (1963-66), Aden (1966-67), Cyprus (1974), The Falklands (1982) and numerous tours of Northern Ireland. More recently the Regiment has deployed to Iraq (1991 and 2003), Kosovo (1994), Bosnia (1996), Sierra Leone (2000), and Afghanistan (2001, 2006, 2008 and 2011).

The composition of the Regiment since it’s formation in 1962 has changed constantly to accommodate the demands made on the UK Armed Forces.

To become a Commando Gunner you must pass the arduous All Arms Commando Course held at Royal Marines Training Centre, Lympstone, which in turn earns you the right to proudly wear the coveted Green Beret.

[Source MOD]

Gallery Images of 95 Commando and 29 Commando


View the Army Commando ROH post WW2 [HERE].
 

95 Commando (Light) Regt. RA

95 Commando Regiment Malaya
The origin of this unit was the 95th Amphibious Observation Regiment RA formed in the early 1950's, which was redesignated as 95th Commando Amphibious Observation Regiment RA in 1962. On the 18th March 1964 it was redesignated as 95 Commando Light Regiment RA. On the 1st May 1971 it was again redesignated as  95th Commando Forward Observer Unit RA and joined with 29 Commando Regiment RA.
 
 
View the Army Commando ROH post WW2 [HERE].
 

7 (Sphinx) Battery

Commando trained currently based at RM Condor, Arbroath.

8 (Alma) Battery

8 Alma Battery RA Singapore 1965

Commando trained. Currently based in the Royal Citadel Plymouth the Battery is known as "Black Eight" because of their efforts at the Battle of Alma where the Battery fired more rounds than any other leaving the faces of the gunners black with powder stains. Black Eight is the second gun battery in 29 Cdo. Regiment and is also equipped with six 105mm Light Guns and three Observation Parties.

145 (Maiwand) Commando Battery

29 Field Regt RA became 29 Commando Lt Regt, RA in 1962. This consisted of 3 gun batteries - 8 (Alma), 79 (Kirkee) & 145 (Maiwand). Each battery consisted of 4 x 105mm Pack Howitzers (Italian Mountain Gun) and manned by approx. 65 men.

23 (Gibralter 1779 -1783) Battery

Commando trained HQ Battery based at the Royal Citadel, Plymouth including RLC attached ranks.

79 (Kirkee) Battery

The Battery converted to the Commando role on 15th May 1962. Two years later saw the Regiment based in Singapore and serving in Borneo and Malaya where it saw action in the jungle role. The early seventies saw the battery based in Malta until it returned to The Royal Citadel in 1974. The troubles in Northern Ireland saw the Battery deployed on four Operation BANNER tours. The Battery has also served as part of the UN peacekeeping force in Cyprus on two occasions, the last in 1995.

In 1982 the Battery deployed with the Regiment on Operation Corporate, the operation to recover the Falkland Islands. Landing in San Carlos on 21 May 1982 the Battery was the first fire unit ashore and the first to fire in anger. Over the course of the war the Battery fired 2,200 rounds and the tactical group supported 42 Commando on foot throughout. Initially moving to Teal Inlet on 31 May the battery moved to Estancia House alongside 3 PARA and finally to Two Sisters within range of Port Stanley. The campaign was the ultimate test for Regiment in extremely hostile conditions which tested gunnery, men and logistics to their very limits and then further still. 

The Battery took part in Operation Haven in1991 to provide a safe and secure haven for the Kurds against Saddem Hussein in Northern Iraq and three years later in 1994 it reinforeced 7 Battery with two Fire support Teams and two gun detachments for Operation Driver to block predicted Iraqi incursion into Kuwait which had echoes of the deployment to Kuwait of 1961.

Kirkee served in the Balkans in 1995 as part of Operation Lodestar (Bosnia-Herzgovina). In 2003 the Battery was split up to reinforce 7 and 8 Batteries for Operation Telic 1, the liberation of Iraq. In 2005 the Battery deployed to Helmand Province Afghanistan on Operation Herrick V returning two years later on Operation Herrick IX. The Battery’s latest operational deployment was to Afghanistan in 2011 on Operation Herrick XIV. The Battery also contributed, at short notice, to the security for the hugely successful 2012 Olympic Games in London.

Source: The Royal Artillery Association .

148 ( Meiktila ) Battery

148 (Meiktila) Commando Forward Observation Battery Royal Artillery is a Commando-trained unit of specialist Naval Gunfire Forward Observers. Although part of 29th Commando Regiment Royal Artillery, it conducts many operations separately from the rest of the regiment. Royal Artillery batteries are usually named after one of their battle honours; the Battle of Meiktila occurred in Burma in February/March 1945, with 148 Battery firing its 25-pounder guns in support of 255th Armoured Brigade. 
 

History

(source  Stu Hart (ex 29 Cdo) : The Combined Operations Bombardment Units (COBUs) provided fire direction for ships in shore bombardment in World War 2. The first COBU was formed in 1940 and by the end of the war there were five in existence. In 1946 all were disbanded, except No.2 COBU which joined the School of Combined Operations (later the Amphibious Warfare Centre) at Fremington. 3 Independent Combined Operations Bombardment Troop (3 ICOBT) was raised to serve with the 40th Infantry Division in Hong Kong in 1949 and soon more Amphibious Observation Units, as they were now called, were in existence. These were combined to form 95th Amphibious Observation Regiment, with its headquarters at Fremington in Devon but batteries stationed at fleet bases throughout the world. 166 Battery, based at Malta, participated in the Suez invasion in November 1956(Operation Musketeer).

148 Battery has been in existence under various names since 1842. After 1945 it became a training unit but converted to the Amphibious Observation role in 1960. At around the same time it was decided that the Royal Marines, who no longer included gunners in their ranks, needed specialist fire support from an Army artillery regiment. Up until then 3 Commando Brigade had relied on whatever gunner regiment was available. 29th Field Regiment was serving in Kuwait in 1962 when it was chosen to take up this role. Its members were to be the first Army Commandos since 1946 and the first men to complete training received their green berets on 15 May 1962. Later 95 Regiment was also re-roled as a Commando Light Regiment with the 105mm pack howitzer. 148 Battery was to continue in the amphibious observation role for 95 as a Commando Forward Observation Battery, while 20 Battery did the same job for 29. Later a Territorial Army unit, 881 Battery, was formed.

Members of 148 Battery saw service in the Malay Peninsula 1963-66, Borneo 1963-66, the Radfan in 1964 and in Aden at various times between 1960 and 1967. In 1971 the battery returned to the UK from Singapore, along with the rest of 3 Commando Brigade, and took up its present location at Poole. With the general reduction of the Royal Navy and gun-armed ships in particular there seemed to be less need for such units. The various batteries had at certain times changed regiments so when 95 Commando Regiment was disbanded in 1975, 148 Battery survived as part of 29 Regiment. 20 and 881 Batteries were not so lucky and 148 became the sole remaining NGFO unit. It too was scheduled for disbandment when Argentina invaded the Falkland Islands in April 1982.

289 Commando Light Battery (V)

A volunteer military reservist unit of Greater London. Redesignated in 1977 as 289 Commando Light Battery (V) from 289 Parachute Battery RHA (V). 

24 Commando Royal Engineers

Role
Responsible for all engineer tasks in the 3 Commando Brigade forward area. This includes route maintenance, bridging, water supply, electricity supply construction of field defences and structures, demolition tasks and mine clearance.
As well as possessing a large number of skilled craftsmen, the Regiment also has a variety of plant machinery and other equipment. This gives the Unit the capability to tackle almost any form of construction or demolition.
Additionally, the Regiment also has a diving team, trained to conduct sub-surface engineering tasks as well as survey rivers and beaches in order to identify their suitability for bridging.
Training
24 Commando personnel undergo the All Arms Commando Course, on successful completion of which they are able to wear the coveted green beret. 
The Unit is trained to operate everywhere in support of 3 Commando Brigade. This means regular Arctic training as well as jungle and desert climates focusing on amphibious operations. Essentially the Regiment allows the Brigade to fight and move. 
Timeline
1971 formation of 59 Independent Commando Squadron Royal Engineers.
2008 expanded to form 24 Commando Engineer Regiment.
2012 the Regiment was reduced in size to form three squadrons.
2017 re-roled as 24 Commando Royal Engineers.

Current ORBAT
24 Commando Royal Engineers
56 Commando Headquarters and Support Squadron
54 Commando Squadron
59 Commando Squadron
131 Commando Squadron
REME Workshop.

131 Commando Squadron

131 Commando Squadron is the Army Reserve sub-unit of 24 Commando Royal Engineers. 131 has served in over 60 nations and territories worldwide. Since 1978 it has supported the Royal Marines and Commando Forces. Before that it was a parachute unit, supporting the Parachute Regiment. 

[Source: MOD].

View the Gallery images of Army Commando Sappers


View the Army Commando ROH post WW2 [HERE].
 

59 Independent Commando Sqn. RE

At the end of the war a decision was made to disband the Army Commandos. Many years later Army Commandos were reformed to support 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines. The 1st of April 2021 marked the 50th Anniversary of the formation of 59 Independent Commando Squadron Royal Engineers.
 
59 Field Squadron at the time were stationed in Singapore providing support to 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines. It was in 1967 that Brigadier Richard Clutterbuck, Chief Engineer Far East Land Forces (FELF) first proposed that 59 Field Squadron re-role as a Commando Squadron and be attached to 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines.
 
Although this decision was met with universal agreement it would not be until 1st April 1971 that the Squadron would be retitled.
 
This is not the first time that the Corps had commando sappers as there were individually trained sappers on the Staff of HQ 3 Commando Brigade with a responsibility for providing specialist support and advice to the Bde Comd and his staff. 
The earliest recorded sapper recipient of the Commando Medal was SSgt John Craig who successfully completed the commando course in 1964 and went on to serve as a QMSI in the Bde HQ. 
 
Looking further back in history there were many sapper officers and soldiers in WW2 who were commando trained. These included Sergeant Thomas Frank Durrant RE, attached to No.1 Commando, who died during Operation Chariot, the raid at St. Nazaire and was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross. 
 
There is currently an annual award ‘The Durrant Award’ which is presented to the Sergeant who has demonstrated throughout the reporting period the very best examples of the Commando qualities:
 
Unselfishness.
Courage.
Cheerfulness in Adversity.
Determination.
Unity.
 
Singapore Days
Following the decision to re-role 59 Field Squadron to 59 Independent Commando Squadron, Gerry Taggart, who was the Staff Officer Royal Engineers (SORE) in HQ 3 Commando Brigade RM explained how 59 Field Squadron came to be called 59 Independent Commando Squadron. 
“The Brigade Commander, Brigadier Peter Whitely asked me what we should call the newly announced Commando Squadron. I replied 59 Independent Commando Squadron Royal Engineers to harmonize with 9 Independent Parachute Squadron Royal Engineers who are a unit of 16th Parachute Brigade. He was delighted with the suggestion and that he now had his own dedicated Royal Engineer Squadron in the Brigade”. 
 
And so, the ‘seeds were sown’ for a professional association that has endured for 50 years and still going strong.
 
Although the Squadron continued to provide sapper support to the Royal Marines there was a significant shift in direction for those who had volunteered for commando training.  The unit PTI's were now conducting daily physical training to prepare soldiers for when they would report to the Royal Citadel in Plymouth to undertake ‘Pre-Beat Up’ training prior to moving to the Commando Training Centre (CTC), Lympstone to complete the All-Arms Commando Course (AACC).  In some cases, personnel would attend the All-Arms Commando Course prior to arrival in Singapore. 
 
The first commando trained Troop Commander to be posted into the Squadron was Lieutenant John Yerbury who arrived in Singapore in 1968 after completion of the AACC at the CTC, Lympstone. It was a welcome change in temperature as John remembered how cold it was during the commando course and having to break the ice in ‘Peter’s Pool’ and the frozen Water Tunnel on the endurance course.
 
John recalls his arrival in Singapore at a time when the Squadron was commanded by Major Geoffrey Preston-Jones and the Squadron Sergeant Major was WO2 (SSM) ‘Spreader’ Hurst.
 “I arrived as the first Troop Commander proudly wearing my coveted green beret – only to be told I could not wear it unless I was visiting 3 Commando Brigade HQ in the north of Singapore.  I was informed by the OC that I would take command of 3 Troop who supported 42 Commando RM. SSgt ‘Blackjack’ Vowles was my Troop SSgt and Sgt Fawcett my Recce Sgt”.
 
During the next 2 years, John’s troop supported 42 Commando RM in several exercises in Australia, Hong Kong, and Malaysia and undertook a variety of construction tasks including non-equipment bridging, road construction projects and infrastructure tasks. John recounts a particular exercise in support of 42 Commando RM when he was tasked with conducting a recce:
“The Troop deployed on an exercise with 42 Commando RM to provide support in the form of a base camp and water supply near a beach site in northern Malaysia. 
I thought that I could save time by undertaking a site recce by helicopter. In those days it took at least 2 days to drive there, search around and then another 2 days to return.  Then the main rivers had to be crossed by ferry that slowed down one’s progress. 
Unfortunately, we crashed in the jungle just short of Kulantan, writing off the Sioux – fortunately, it did not catch fire as we had run out of fuel ! 
I never did that recce, though I did find a water source when we arrived on site. I did all the pollution tests but did not do a final taste test.  It was salt water!  We rapidly dug another well nearby and fortunately found a good drinkable supply”.
 
John would serve in the Squadron until his posting in September 1970. Further postings of young commando trained Troop Commanders followed and eventually the number of commando trained officers and SNCOs in the Squadron flourished and included the OC, Major John Grosvenor RE,  Squadron 2IC Captain Geoff Field RE, (who would later return to command the Squadron in January 1976) and the SSM, WO2 (SSM) Bill Moretta RE.
 
In good old military fashion, a parade was held in Cloutman Lines to mark the occasion when 59 Field Squadron was retitled as 59 Independent Commando Squadron.
Lance Corporal Lawrence Gilbertson was a draughtsman working in the Drawing Office in SHQ and recalls the part he played in the ceremony:
The Training Sergeant entered my office and said "You are a keen sailor aren’t you and know how to put up a flag properly ?” “Er yes Sgt.” Right come with me”. 
In front of the Squadron Offices was the flagpole, freshly painted with a bright new halyard and the Field Squadron Flag starting to show its age, snapping in a light breeze from the Singapore Strait.
“Right, on the 1st of April, we will be having a Squadron Renaming Parade and you will haul down the Field Squadron Flag and Raise the Independent Commando Squadron Flag”.
Following several rehearsals and practices, the parade was held at noon on the 1st April 1971. The Squadron marched on and following a number of drill movements the OC ordered “59 Field Squadron Royal Engineers Attention”.
I lowered the 59 Field Squadron flag and raised the 59 Independent Commando Squadron flag to the top of the flagpole. Pause for effect, and finally the flag cracked in the breeze off the Singapore Straight.
A few moments for reflection then the OC ordered “59 Independent Commando Squadron, Royal Engineers, Stand at Ease”. A few more commands followed and 59 Independent Commando Squadron RE marched off the parade square for the first time.
I had carried out the last duty of the Field Squadron and the first of the Independent Commando Squadron”.
 
The change in title and the colour of the beret brought another unexpected change and that is ‘Jackspeak’ which is ‘Naval Lingo’ adopted by the Royal Marines!
No longer would we go ‘downtown for a few beers’ instead we would go for ‘a run ashore and a few wets’. Other changes include:
 
‘Going to the cookhouse for scoff’ is now ‘Going to the galley for scran’
No more ‘NAAFI Breaks’ it is now ‘Stand Easy’
Events are no longer ‘Awesome’ but now ‘Hoofing’
We will no longer ‘go to the toilet’ but will now ‘go to the heads’
Our kit is no longer called ‘Army Issue’ but is now ‘Pussers
 
Return to the UK
The bulk of the Squadron moved to Plymouth in May 1971 and would be joined later in the year by 1 Troop who remained behind to support 40 Commando RM and the final withdrawal of British Forces from Singapore. The focus for 59 Independent Commando Squadron would now be to settle into their new accommodation in Crownhill Fort and Seaton Barracks and increase the commando trained strength.
 
Within the first two years the Squadron had reached full strength and had operated in fourteen countries from Borneo to the Arctic. On 4 October 1971, Condor Troop became the first commando trained troop in the Squadron, and were swiftly relocated to their new home in Arbroath, Scotland, alongside 45 Commando, RM.
 
In early 1972, 2 Troop, became the second commando trained troop and they relocated to Malta in support of 41 Commando RM and would be known as ‘Malta Troop’.
 
During the formative years of the Squadron, life was dominated by tours on Operation BANNER, Oversees Training exercises (OTX), conducting specialist Arctic Warfare training in Norway, and Amphibious training in the Mediterranean.
 
The Squadron deployed on Operation CORPORATE in 1982 which was the British Military operation to retake the Falkland Islands following the occupation by Argentine armed forces.  They would return in 1984 but in a completely different posture to that of warfighting, with more emphases on combat and infrastructure support.
 
As part of the UK barrack infrastructure plan, the Squadron moved from Crownhill Fort to Royal Marines Barracks (RMB) Chivenor, North Devon alongside the Commando Logistic Regiment RM. Squadron and eventually Regimental life revolved around continuous specialist training in support of 3 Cdo Bde RM.
Operational deployments to Iraq including Operation HAVEN in Northern Turkey and Operation TELIC were followed by further operational deployments to Afghanistan on Operation HERRICK (5,9, and 14). Add to that the re-introduction of arctic warfare training in Norway then life became remarkably busy.
 
An increasing commitment to Humanitarian Aid Disaster Relief (HADR) would involve a permanent commitment of a Troop strength on standby. In 2017 the Regiment were heavily involved in support to Operation RUMAN which was the British government's combined military and humanitarian support to provide relief to the British Overseas Territories in the Caribbean affected by Hurricane IRMA.
 
Commando Sapper Restructuring
The major restructuring of the British Armed Forces announced in 2008 would see sapper support to 3 Cdo Bde RM change from an Independent Commando Squadron to an Engineer Regiment. 
On the 01 April 2008, 24 Commando Engineer Regiment was formed and included 54 Commando Headquarter and Support Squadron, and 59 Commando Squadron.  This would later change to include a further two Commando Squadrons (one of which is a reserve squadron) and a REME Workshop. 
The current ORBAT of the Regiment (which had a title change) is:
 
24 Commando Royal Engineers
56 Commando Headquarters and Support Squadron
54 Commando Squadron
59 Commando Squadron
131 Commando Squadron
REME Workshop.

Source
Extract from a document provided by WO1 (RSM) Tim Gort | Regimental Sergeant Major | 24 Commando RE.
Added 24 August 2021.
 

Commando Troop EOD, RE

After the Falklands War an expansion began in Royal Engineers Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD). In 1985 RE EOD teams were established to provide integral support for both 5 Airborne Brigade and 3 Commando Brigade RM.
1 and 2 Troops of 49 EOD Sqn. were detached into a separate Explosive Ordnance Clearance (EOC) group, directly under 33 Engineer Regiment and two new Troops formed within 49 EOD Squadron: 1 (Para) Troop and 2 (Commando) Troop.
Currently the Commando Troop of 821 Explosive Ordnance Disposal Squadron, RE, consists of four EOD and Search teams aligned to the Lead Commando Group. 

Source
A short history on Royal Engineer Bomb Dispoal by Lt. Col. E E Wakeling ERD, amended and extended by Lt. Col. R I M MacArthur [more......].
 

'Commando Logistic Regiment RM'

Based at Chivenor in North Devon, the Regiment is home to about 780 personnel from all three services, including Royal Marines, Mechanical Engineers, Medics and Logisticians. The Regiment is unique in Defence in that no other unit has such an eclectic mix of cap badges working together towards providing Equipment, Medical and Logistical support.

In addition, the Regiment also provides the Protected Mobility capability, in the guise of the Viking All Terrain Vehicle, for the Lead Commando Group.The Regiment’s purpose is to provide every aspect of combat service support for 3 Commando Brigade, anywhere in the world. In particular the Regiment’s aims are to provide support for brigade amphibious operations when sea based, during offload across a beach or port and over a large battle space on land. CLR is Britain’s sole amphibious logistic unit. 
 
It demonstrated its operational role during the Falkland’s War, in Northern Iraq on Op Haven, in Southern Iraq on Op Telic and most recently in Afghanistan on Op Herrick.  
 
Logistic Support Squadron, Commando Logistic Regiment.  
On the 08 May 1964, Four Officers and Twenty Four RAOC Storemen and Clerks who had volunteered to undertake the gruelling tests of endurance laid on them by the various disciplines of the Commando Course completed their training and were awarded the Coveted Green Beret, joined 3 Commando Brigade Ordnance Field Park and the 'SQUADRON' was born.

Commando Ordnance Field Park 1964 – 1972. Formed 1964 as Support to 3 Commando Brigade. Service included Singapore 1964 & Borneo 1965.
Commando Ordnance Squadron 1972 – 1996. Service included Brigade Support during Op CORPORATE Falklands Campaign and many other deployments.
Commando Logistic Support Squadron 1996 to present day. Service included Op HAVEN, Op AGRICOLA, Op JACANA, Op TELIC & Op HERRICK 5, 8 & 14 and many other deployments.
383 Commando Petroleum Troop (TA), Royal Logistic Corps.
A unit responsible for the handling, supply and storage of bulk fuels from ship to shore and under front line combat conditions. It is a Commando unit and all its members must pass the All Arms Commando Course in order to serve with their Regular counterparts in the Commando Logistic Regiment in 3 Commando Brigade, Royal Marines.
 
(Source: MOD)
 
View the Gallery Images.
 

'Cdo. Logistic Regt. RM formation'

Extract from the Globe and Laurel July/August 1977. 
The Medical and Ordnance Squadrons investigate the formation of the Commando Logistic Regiment Royal Marines.
 
Contrary to popular belief, logistic support to Commando Forces did exist before the formation of the Regiment. Through the late 40s and 50s, small units such as 3 and 4 Commando Transport and Composite Platoons, 3 and 4 Commando LAD and 3 and 4 Commando Medical Sections provided limited support to Commandos. 
 
However, the real growth of Commando Forces logistic support occurred during the Borneo confrontation when HQ 3 Commando Brigade became established in Kuching and was supported from Singapore through a Brigade Maintenance Area (BMA) in Kuching, which incorporated 3 Commando Workshop and the Transport and Composite Platoon. Two years experience in Borneo operations proved the requirement for Ordnance specialists and accordingly, in 1964, an OFP was formed to support the Brigade.
 
In 1971, 3 Commando Brigade RM returned to the United Kingdom to assume its NATO role in common with the remainder of Commando Forces, and the Commando Logistic Regiment was formed from the various Brigade elements.
 
  • 3 Commando Medical Section (Singapore) and 4 Commando Medical Section (Plymouth) combined to form the Commando Medical Squadron.
  • 3 Commando Transport and Composite Platoon (Singapore) and 4 Commando Transport and Composite Platoon (Plymouth) combined to form the Commando Transport Squadron.
  • 3 Commando Brigade OFP (Singapore) formed the Commando Ordnance Squadron.
  • 3 Commando Workshop (Singapore) and 4 Commando LAD (Malta) formed the Commando Workshop Squadron .
  • Elements of Camp HQ Plymouth Group formed the Garrison Squadron.
  • 1st Raiding Squadron (Singapore) and 4th Raiding Squadron (Plymouth) combined to form the Raiding Squadron (1RSRM).

On January 11, 1972 the Commando Logistic Regiment held its inaugural parade at Stonehouse Barracks, Plymouth.

The address was given by the Commandant General Royal Marines Lt Gen B. I. S. Gourlay, OBE, MC and included the following remarks: 'Today you find yourselves members of a very special and new team, a partnership of many skills brought together under a single hand and devoted to a single aim, namely, that of supporting the Commandos, and this in a more co-ordinated and efficient way than has been possible to date'. He continued, 'You can count amongst you, in addition to the Royal Marines and Royal Navy cap badges and tallies, the insignia of three famous Corps of the British Army. I believe that this bringing together of varied skills, different points of view, and distinctive jargon lends strength to the Regiment as a whole, and gives it a fine flavour of its own'. 

During 1972 two assault detachments were sent from the Ordnance Squadron on a permanent basis, to 45 Cdo Gp in Arbroath (No 3 AOD) and 41 Cdo Gp in Malta (No 1 AOD). No 3 and No 1 Advanced Workshop Detachments were similarly deployed and finally in 1976 No 3 Medical Troop was formed and detached to 45 Cdo Gp for second line support in its M & AW role.

In addition, in 1972, a combat supplies troop was formed from the Commando Ordnance Squadron to work with the Commando Transport Squadron and the expertise of this Troop led to the formation of a local Resources Team in 1976. It can be seen therefore, that the young Commando Logistic Regiment which is to parade before Her Majesty on August 5 has roots that extend well back into the past 25 years.

Source
Globe and Laurel July/August 1977.
 

47 Commando (Raiding Group) RM

47 Commando (Raiding Group) Royal Marines is the lead for amphibious warfare and Royal Navy board and search training. The group is tasked with training and developing core amphibious and surface assault skills and equipment.
This unit was renamed in November 2019 from the previous 1 Assault Group Royal Marines.  [Source: Royal Navy/MOD]
 

539 Raiding Squadron RM

539 Assault Squadron was renamed 539 Raiding Squadron Royal Marines in November 2019. This Unit is a vital link in the Corps' chain, allowing 3 Commando Brigade to transfer onto land from the sea or river. It can operate amphibious Viking vehicles to deliver force into territories.

The unit served with distinction in Iraq's Al Faw peninsula during operations in the last decade, but it has also operated around the world with the Royal Navy's amphibious ships HMS Albion and HMS Bulwark and the helicopter carrier HMS Ocean.

Throughout the summer of 2012 the unit contributed to the Royal Navy’s role in Olympic security. It was one of the Commando units taking part in the Cougar 2012 amphibious deployment to the Mediterranean.

[Source: Royal Navy/MOD]

'30 Commando IX Group'

30 Commando Information Exploitation Group
 
30 Commando was formed in WW2 and serves today as the ‘eyes and ears’ of 3 Commando Brigade.
 
30 Commando is a diverse, ever-evolving unit, made up of the best and the brightest Britain has to offer. Surveillance and Reconnaissance Squadron deploys ahead of the main force for reconnaissance behind enemy lines. A team of Royal Marines Mountain Leaders in the main, they operate in small groups, providing the initial battle picture to 3 Commando Brigade.
 
'Y' Squadron are the Royal Marines Electronic Warfare specialists. Always listening, they locate, intercept and disrupt enemy transmissions.
 
Communications Squadron provides the linkages and networks that are essential for our operations. Highly trained in advanced communication methods, they keep Headquarters connected to the wider Brigade.
 
Air Defence Troop protect the Commando Forces from air attack. Using the High Velocity Missile System, they destroy enemy aircraft.
 
Royal Marines Police protect key personnel such as visiting dignitaries and foreign officials. They also provide training and assistance to police forces around the world.
 
30 Commando Headquarters fuses information and intelligence from the squadrons together to generate understanding for the wider Brigade.
 
[Source: Royal Navy/MOD]
 

'Commando Helicopter Force'

The three squadrons of the Commando Helicopter Force are the wings of the Royal Marines, providing crucial aerial support to the green berets be they at sea in an assault ship or in the sand and dust of Afghanistan.

Known as ‘The Junglies’ for their operations in Borneo during the 1960s, then designated as Air Troops of 3 Commando Brigade RM, Commando Helicopter Force consists of three Naval Air Squadrons – 845, 846 and 847. Together, they use Merlin and Wildcat helicopters to provide air support to 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines and other UK forces.

From battlefield reconnaissance and joint fire support to training Aircrew and Engineers for the front line, Commando Helicopter Force’s role is perhaps best summed up by the motto of 847 Naval Air Squadron: ‘We Strike From On High’.

Commanding Officer 
July 2022 Colonel Mark Johnson.
 
[Source: Royal Navy / MOD.]
 

3 Commando Bde. Air Squadron

12 August 1968 formed at Sembawang Air Base, Singapore, by amalgamating the Air Troops of 3 Commando Brigade RM which had been operating there since 1965.
1 September 1995 redesignated as 847 Naval Air Squadron.
1999 Commando Helicopter Force formed of 845, 846 and 847 Naval Air Squadrons.
 

845 Naval Air Squadron

Provides airborne support for the Royal Marines of 3 Commando Brigade.

846 Naval Air Squadron

Provides airborne support for the Royal Marines of 3 Commando Brigade.

847 Naval Air Squadron

Transcript of Royal Marines Routine Orders 105/95

Re-designation of 3 Cdo Bde Air Sqn RM as 847 Naval Air Squadron (R)

1. 3 Commando Brigade Air Squadron Royal Marines will be formally incorporated into the Naval Air Command on Friday 1 Sep 95 and be re-designated 847 Naval Air Squadron.
2. The Squadron will continue to operate Army Lynx and Gazelle aircraft until the introduction of the Attack Helicopter into Army Air Corps Service.

Thereafter it will continue in the light utility role in support of 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines. 

'Royal Marines Reserve'

The Royal Marines Reserve (RMR), together with the Royal Naval Reserve, form the Maritime Reserve. There are currently 4 units.
 
  • RMR Scotland draws recruits from across Scotland, North East England and Northern Ireland.
  • RMR Bristol draws recruits from across South West England and Wales.
  • RMR London draws recruits from across the south east of England.
  • RMR Merseyside is based in central Liverpool and draws recruits from the North West, North Wales, the Midlands, Yorkshire and the Humber.
Source 
Royal Navy/MOD.
3rd Dec. 2018.
 

'Royal Marine Forces Volunteer Reserve'

The Royal Marine Forces Volunteer Reserve was formed in 1948 and was the forerunner of the Royal Marines Reserve, the title change to the latter taking place in 1966 [1]
 
R.M.F.V.R. Commando Wing [2].
R.M.F.V.R. Sea Service Wing  [3].
 
Extract from Commando Association newsletter 32 issued March 1961.
" I joined the R.M.F.V.R. (Commando Wing) two years ago and its just like old times. Our O.C. is also an ex Army Commando," writes Cpl. (now Sgt.) A. Munro (9 Cdo), H.M.S. Claverhouse, Leith, Edinburgh.
 
Extract from the Globe and Laurel Jan-Feb 1984 page 67.
"...was one of the first to volunteer for RMFVR, City of London, in the Sea Service Wing."
 
Sources
[1] RM Museum online chronology.
[2] CA Newsletter 32.
[3] Globe and Laurel Jan-Feb 1984 Obituaries.
 

'R.M.F.V.R. - formation’

House of Lords - Extract from Hansards 12 February 1948
 
The First Lord of the Admiralty (Viscount Hall)

My Lords, the Bill of which I am asking your Lordships for the Second Reading this afternoon is, I think, uncontroversial. The Bill has two objects designed to one main purpose, and that is to increase the reserves available to the Royal Marines on mobilization. Although the numbers involved in this Bill are small, I am sure that your Lordships will all recognize that it deals with a very fine body of men.

The Corps of Royal Marines was first raised from trained bands of the City of London about 300 years ago. From the outset it was constantly in use for naval purposes, and the first major engagement on land took place in the capture of Gibraltar in 1704. This was the beginning of a long record of gallant service and proud tradition, culminating in the actions of the Second World War in Crete, France, Holland and elsewhere. Many of our famous Service leaders have spoken in the highest terms of the value of the Marines to the country. Admiral Lord St. Vincent actually used the words: If ever the hour of real danger should come to England they will be found the country's sheet anchor.

Times change and this can no longer be said of what, for all the glory of their past, is now a comparatively small body of men. Nevertheless, for its size the Corps is now no less a vital component of our Armed Forces than it has been in earlier times, a fact brought about no more by the increased functions lately assigned to them than by the conspicuous gallantry which they have displayed in all those actions in which they have taken part.

As I have said, the purpose of this Bill is to increase the reserves available to the Marines on mobilization. The present system of reserves relies only on pensioners who are over forty years of age and on voluntary entrants into the Royal Fleet Reserve, and we consider that these will no longer be sufficient to meet requirements. The reason is that the functions of the Marines have increased considerably. Before the Second World War their main function was to provide detachments on board ship—and only on large ships—to man parts of the armament and to be used on operations on shore under the Naval Commander-in-Chief.

Their functions have now been extended, principally in the all-important field of combined operations. They have now to undertake the manning of assault craft and the provision of commando and special amphibious assault units. In addition, they have duties in connexion with beach communications, beach control and naval bombardment. It is for these purposes that we need an increase in the number of Royal Marines.

The Bill therefore provides, as a first object, for the creation of a Royal Marine Forces Volunteer Reserve, on the model of the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, the members of which will, when called up, serve as Marines. This means that their terms of pay and conditions of service will be those of the Marines, and that their disciplinary code will rest on the Naval Discipline Act or the Army Act, according to whether they serve afloat or ashore.

The second object of the Bill is to provide for the enlistment of Royal Marines for Special Service; that is, to serve part of their twelve years on active service and the rest in the Royal Fleet Reserve. The actual periods of service are left indefinite in the Bill, for they will be determined by regulation, as in the case of the Royal Navy. For the Royal Navy the periods of active service and service in the Reserve are normally seven years and five years respectively, and it is contemplated that the arrangements for the Royal Marines will be similar. Provision is made for a Royal Marine so enlisted to be transferred to a long-service engagement by mutual consent, thus bringing the engagement systems of the Royal Navy and the Royal Marines into line.

Your Lordships will see that Clause 1 of the Bill is devoted entirely to the first object, and, similarly, Clause 2 to the second. Clause 1 (1) makes it lawful to raise a Volunteer Reserve for the Royal Marines. The number is not limited by law, but for a start we aim at a figure of about 1,500. I cannot say what the ultimate figure will be, but 1,500 is the immediate aim. Subsection (2) places the Reserve in the same legal position as the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, with the proviso that when mobilized its members serve as Marines and not as seamen. This has been done by applying the Statutes which govern the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve. Subsections (3) and (4) add the Royal Marine Forces Volunteer Reserve to the list of Naval Reserves in the various Acts and Statutes where they are already mentioned. Subsection (6) repeals the long obsolete Section 2 of the Naval Forces Act, 1903.

Clause 2 (1) allows Marines to be entered for Special Service on the lines I have indicated. Subsection (2) is technical. The Royal Marines Act says that at a certain point in his service a man may do certain things. For example, he may re-engage for service or he may have certain things done to him; he may be brought home from abroad. This subsection provides that for a Special Service Marine the date to which those things are related will be the end of the active service part of his engagement, rather than after his completed service which, legally, includes his period with the Reserve. It is made clear that a Royal Marine may transfer from Special to Continuous Service. There is a similar provision in the Royal Navy.

In conclusion, may I repeat that the Force for which we now desire to form a Voluntary Reserve, and to provide for Special Service enlistment, has a splendid tradition of action and gallantry. There can, I think, be no possible doubt but that the men required will come forward, and that in emergency they will follow honourably and with distinction in the 1038 footsteps of those who have made the title "The Royals" what it means to the world to-day. I feel sure that your Lordships will welcome this Bill and it is therefore with confidence that I ask for a Second Reading. I beg to move.