Where did???

[davidbfpo]

Looking back at the British Empire experience in WW2, the introduction of the Commandos needed Winston Churchill's support IIRC to overcome the resistance of the conventional military and others. Other unconventional "arms" like LRDG, SOE, SAS, Chindits etc took brave men's advocacy, sometimes in a rather direct manner (IIRC to Wavell for the SAS by David Stirling).

It is curious that a lot of the training in new skills came from such non-miltary sources as the International Brigade who'd fought Franco in Spain and the Shanghai Municipal Police. The personnel often, but not always came from the independently minded Dominions (ANZAC & Rhodesians - hat tip Jon Custis) and businessmen across the Empire (often China).

Given that WW2 was a 'Total War' it still took at least two years to get such bodies into operation and Afghanistan is not in that category.

The "Wild Geese"of Africa in the mercenary era have long since retired; those who fought in the "liberation" wars in Southern Africa have been burnt out, or have gone to PMCs. Hardly encouragement in a recruiting campaign.

The techniques maybe well known now, there is little hands on experience outside the SF branch and life in the far flung corners is more comfortable. Are the people of such character out there? Yes, outside the USA I'd suggest hard to locate, motivate and get into place.

Perhaps we should look outside our own box. Are there countries that have the personalities sought, who can acquire the skill set and volunteer - quite possibly for money? From a suburban "armchair" I'd start with the French Foriegn Legion.

davidbfpo