SAS Historical Information
The Winged Dagger

SAS History

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History of the Special Air Service
 
In 1941 Lieutenant David Stirling and Lieutenant Jock Lewis gathered a small unit of 66 volunteers.  This unit was named the L. Detachment of the Special Air Service Brigade.  The main objective of this group was to conduct raids against the lines of communication of Axis forces in the Western Dessert. 
 
They hoped insert their raiding parties by parachute.  However the first attempt ended in disaster do to poor weather conditions. Although many troops were lost, they continued their raids and by using vehicles that were driven across the dessert to enter behind enemy lines. 
 
Lewis was killed in an early operation, but under Stirling's Leadership, the SAS Regiment was very successful during the remaining 18 months of the campaign. They were responsible for the destruction of several hundred enemy aircraft on the ground and large quantities of war material.  In addition, they were responsible for frequent disruption to the infrastructure and communications targets.
 
David Sterling was captured in January 1943 and his command ultimately passed to Major Blair 'Paddy' Mayne.  Sterling was eventually sent to the notorious POW camp at Colditz Castle.
 
The 2nd SAS Regiment was raised  and commanded by William Stirling, David's brother.  The 2nd regiment was responsible for the Operation Torch landings in Algeria.
 
 

David Stirling, founder of the S.A.S.

David Stirling, the founder of the SAS. We dedicate our unit to the memory of those that served both with and after him. Our desire is to do as accurate an impression of SAS operations in the Second World War as we can. Who Dares Wins!

young Blair (Paddy) Mayne

Blair (Paddy) Mayne, the aggressive former rugby player who personally destroyed more aircraft in the North African campaign than any Allied pilot. 

veteren Blair (Paddy) Mayne

Here is a view of a more veteran Paddy, who would take over command of the SAS after David Stirling's capture.

S.A.S. graves
Graves of SAS members Who Dared and ultimately Won. Moussey Graveyard, France. 

Oh Lord, Who didst call on Thy disciples to venture all to win all men to Thee. Grant that we, the chosen members of the Special Air Service Regiment. May by our works and our ways dare all to win all and, in so doing, render special service to Thee and our fellow men in all the world, through the same Jesus Christ Our Lord, Amen. 

 

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