When did special forces start? The origin of special forces can be traced back to the late 19th century. Although the concept of specialized military units has been around for centuries, the modern era of special forces began during World War I.
The first formal special forces unit was established by the British in 1915, known as the 14th (Light) Division. This division was tasked with conducting unconventional warfare, including sabotage, intelligence gathering, and guerrilla tactics. However, it was during World War II that special forces truly gained prominence.
In 1940, the British military created the Special Operations Executive (SOE), which was responsible for carrying out espionage, sabotage, and reconnaissance missions behind enemy lines. The SOE became the prototype for modern special forces units. At the same time, the United States established the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), which served a similar purpose.
The OSS, later renamed the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), played a crucial role in the development of American special forces. One of the most famous special forces units from this period was the Office of Surgical Units (OSU), also known as the OSS Rangers. These elite soldiers were trained in various forms of unconventional warfare and were instrumental in the liberation of Europe during World War II.
After World War II, the concept of special forces continued to evolve. The British Special Air Service (SAS) was formed in 1941 and is considered one of the most elite special forces units in the world. The SAS played a significant role in the conflicts in Northern Ireland, the Falklands War, and more recently, in the war on terror.
The United States also continued to expand its special forces capabilities. The U.S. Army Special Forces, commonly known as the Green Berets, were established in 1952. These soldiers are highly trained in counterinsurgency, direct action, and unconventional warfare. The Green Berets have been involved in numerous conflicts, including the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.
As the world becomes increasingly complex, the role of special forces has become more important than ever. These elite units are often deployed in remote and dangerous areas to conduct missions that are too risky for conventional forces. The skills and training of special forces soldiers make them invaluable assets to their respective countries.
In conclusion, the history of special forces dates back to the late 19th century, but it was during World War I and World War II that these units truly began to emerge. Today, special forces play a critical role in global security and continue to evolve in response to the ever-changing threats faced by nations around the world.
