The Small Scale Raiding Force: Unearthing the Secrets of Britain's Elite Special Operations Group

The Birth of the Small Scale Raiding Force

During World War II, numerous covert operations were conducted by highly skilled and specialized units. One such unit that played a crucial role in the Allied war effort was the Small Scale Raiding Force (SSRF). Created in 1940 under the command of Major Gus March-Phillipps, the SSRF carried out daring raids and sabotage missions across enemy lines, making it a force to be reckoned with during the war.

Training and Recruitment

The SSRF consisted of volunteers from various branches of the British Armed Forces, carefully selected for their physical abilities, combat skills, and their ability to think on their feet. The training for the SSRF was rigorous and demanding, covering a wide range of skills including hand-to-hand combat, sabotage techniques, stealth operations, and survival skills. This exceptional training enabled the SSRF operatives to operate effectively in enemy territory.

Operations and Achievements

Although they worked in small teams, the SSRF carried out several notable operations that had a significant impact on the outcome of the war. One of their most famous missions was the daring raid on the radar station at Bruneval, France in 1942. In this raid, SSRF operatives infiltrated the heavily guarded coastline, successfully dismantling and bringing back vital enemy radar technology. This operation not only provided valuable intelligence to the Allies but also demonstrated the prowess of the SSRF.

The Small Scale Raiding Force

by Adam Nicolson (Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	15521 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	313 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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Another remarkable mission undertaken by the SSRF was the raid on the German-held Channel Island of Sark. In this operation, the SSRF successfully kidnapped German officers and retrieved important documents to gather intelligence on German defenses. The resourcefulness and courage of the SSRF operatives enabled them to carry out these audacious missions under the nose of the enemy.

Legacy and Influence

Despite being a relatively small force, the SSRF's impact on the war effort cannot be underestimated. The operations conducted by the SSRF contributed significantly to intelligence gathering, demoralizing the enemy, and disrupting German operations throughout Europe. Their success and professionalism paved the way for the creation of other elite special operations units such as the Special Air Service (SAS) and the Special Boat Service (SBS) in the years following World War II.

The SSRF also played a crucial role in the development of modern special operations tactics and techniques. Their expertise in small-scale raids, sabotage, and intelligence gathering formed the foundation for future special forces units, shaping the way modern warfare is conducted.

The SSRF's Enduring Spirit

Though the SSRF may have disbanded after the war, its legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of special forces operatives around the world. The values of resilience, adaptability, and courage that defined the SSRF continue to be the guiding principles of elite special operations units today.

Remembering the Small Scale Raiding Force serves as a testament to the bravery and ingenuity displayed by these unsung heroes. Their contributions to the Allied war effort should never be forgotten, and their story stands as a reminder of the extraordinary lengths brave individuals are willing to go to defend freedom and justice.

In

The Small Scale Raiding Force was a remarkable unit that played a significant role during World War II. Their daring operations, exceptional training, and lasting impact on special operations warfare make them an indispensable part of military history. The SSRF's legacy continues to inspire and motivate those who serve in special forces units today, reminding us of the extraordinary sacrifices made by these remarkable individuals.

The Small Scale Raiding Force

by Adam Nicolson (Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	15521 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	313 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

The Small Scale Raiding Force (SSRF) was formed in February 1942 by Gus March Phillips with Major General Gubbins SOE European chief's approval. March-Phillips and his Maid of Honor Force had just had complete success with their operation (POSTMASTER) off West Africa.Equipped with a specially adapted motor torpedo boat, the SSRF immediately started planning for operations. Op FROUDESLEY, with the aim of destroying the battleship Tirpitz ran into technical problems and was delayed but, in August and September, three daring cross Channel missions were successfully carried out without loss. The author describes these and the disastrous fourth operation (ACQUATINT) when all 10 SSRF men, including March-Phillips were killed or captured.Despite this hammerblow, SSRF now commanded by Geoffrey Appleyard made two raids on Sark a week later. Again their story is fully told in this fascinating book along with those of three further 1942 raids.Inter-service rivalry ('the war within') led to the break-up of the SSRF in early 1943. The Author describes the many colourful characters who made up this special force including Anders Lassen VC, Graham Hayes and Andre Desgranges, the Free Frenchman whom the Gestapo 'turned'.This superbly researched book lifts the veil on a little known but highly effective special force unit and the gallant individuals who served in it.As seen in Dorset Magazine.Book of the Month - Britain at War Magazine, April 2014