1st Commando Regiment

Unit of the Australian Army Reserve September 2026 November 2019 1st Commando Regiment Insigne 1st Commando Regiment (Australie).svg 170px 1st Commando Regiment cap badge 24 February 1955 (as 1 and 2 Cdo Coy)1 February 1981–present (as 1st Cdo Regt) Australia Australian Army Reserve Special forces Special Forces Group Special operations One regiment Two commando companies Sydney and Melbourne Colonel in Chief Strike Swiftly 150px Unit colour patch 1 Cdo Regt Abbreviation 1 Cdo Coy – "Sari Marais"2 Cdo Coy – "Cockleshell Heroes" Afghanistan William "Mac" GrantPhillip BennettMartin Hamilton-SmithJack H Skipper MCHarry Smith MC The 1st Commando Regiment (1 Cdo Regt) is an Australian Army Reserve special forces unit and is part of Special Operations Command. The regiment has an integrated structure of regular (full-time) Australian Army soldiers and reserve (part-time) soldiers. 1st and 2nd Commando Companies were raised in 1955 and were combined with 126 Signal Squadron (SF) in 1981 to form the 1st Cdo Regt. The regiment's two commando companies are the oldest sub-units within Special Operations Command. In 2008, the regiment deployed to Afghanistan to become the first Australian Army Reserve force element on combat operations since World War II. The regiment is the Command's capability lead for Special Warfare.Irvine 2020 10,26,34Army: The Soldiers' Newspaper 2023 15Miranda Charles Army to recreate legendary special force from WWII Z Squad https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/national/defence-recreates-legendary-z-special-regiment-to-fight-china/news-story/14df3c89a47444d9fc1a700c9fd69c11 11 July 2023 The Daily Telegraph 17 June 2023 5 subscription Role The primary role of 1st Commando Regiment is Special Warfare. It specialises in unconventional warfare, intelligence gathering and working in small teams alongside regional partners.Irvine 2020 10,26,34Army: The Soldiers' Newspaper 2023 15 In the early to mid 2020s, the regiment transitioned its primary role to special warfare following a review of Special Operations Command (SOCOMD).Irvine 2020 5,10-11 The regiment's primary role had been the conduct of large scale offensive operations and it had been trained and equipped to carry out commando operations up to company strength.Role – 1st Commando Regiment http://www.defence.gov.au/army/1commando/role.htm Australian Army 6 January 2006 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20060106050106/http://www.defence.gov.au/army/1commando/role.htm 6 January 2006 1st Commando Regiment https://www.army.gov.au/our-people/units/special-operations-command/1st-commando-regiment Australian Army https://webarchive.nla.gov.au/awa/20170422145535/https://www.army.gov.au/our-people/units/special-operations-command/1st-commando-regiment 22 April 2017 14 December 2016 deadmedic One of its roles had always been the ability to carry out special warfare operations such as training regional partners and supporting indigenous forces.Gilby 1996 12Macrae 1990 11 During the period from the early 2000s to the early 2010s, combat operations and the evolution of the commando role changed the character of the regiment.1st Commando Regiment http://www.army.gov.au/Our-people/Units/Special-Operations-Command/1st-Commando-Regiment Australian Army 29 July 2013 https://web.archive.org/web/20150716011210/http://www.army.gov.au/Our-people/Units/Special-Operations-Command/1st-Commando-Regiment 16 July 2015 dead The regiment revised reserve training following combat operations, to align training standards with the full-time 2nd Commando Regiment (2 Cdo Regt), and to provide a higher level of readiness for the regiment, however, this affected recruitment due to the long full-time commitment and became optional.An exciting future http://www.defence.gov.au/Publications/NewsPapers/Army/editions/1363/1363.pdf Army: The Soldiers' Newspaper 1363 Department of Defence Canberra 0729-5685 5 November 2015 20 https://web.archive.org/web/20160825211407/http://www.defence.gov.au/Publications/NewsPapers/Army/editions/1363/1363.pdf 25 August 2016 dead The regiment revised its training after its primary role changed to Special Warfare and introduced a special warfare training course for both full-time and reserve soldiers.Army: The Soldiers' Newspaper 2023 15 The colour of its beret was changed to khaki to reflect its new primary role. History Origins thumb|left|Australian commandos in New Guinea during World War II Derived from the South African/Dutch word used by the Boers identifying their irregular sized raiding forces employed against the British during the South African Wars, the term "commando" was adopted by newly formed British raiding forces during World War II, and subsequently used by Australian special units raised to fight in the South-west Pacific and Indian Oceans. By the close of World War II, Australian special forces units included the Independent Companies (later Commando Squadrons), Z Special Unit under Special Operations Australia and M Special Unit under Allied Intelligence Bureau.Horner 1989 20-27 By the early 1950s, it was deemed necessary by the Army to maintain the techniques and skills that had been developed during the war.Collins 2005 33,41 Consequently, on 16 September 1954, the Military Board issued the authority to raise two Citizen Military Force (CMF)The name of the CMF was changed to Australian Army Reserve in 1980. commando companies: the 1 Commando Company (1 Cdo Coy) in Sydney and the 2 Commando Company (2 Cdo Coy) in Melbourne.Collins 2005 32-34 Both would be commanded by regular army officers and regular army would form the training and administrative cadre.Collins 2005 33-34 The companies were to be independent of each other and report to different commands.Collins 2005 35 The established strength for the companies was to be 265 all ranks, consisting of one major, five captains (three of them platoon commanders), six sergeants and 241 other ranks.Collins 2005 35 This establishment was very similar to the Independent Companies of World War II, which had had an establishment of 17 officers and 256 other ranks.Horner 1989 22 1 Cdo Coy was raised at Victoria Barracks, Sydney, in New South Wales on 24 February 1955, moving to lower Georges Height's later that year; however, the officer commanding, Major William Harold (Mac) Grant decided that the official birthday would be their first parade on Friday 15 July 1955 at Victoria Barracks.Collins 2005 82Grant Barry A history of the formation of 1 Commando Company http://www.1commando.com/History_files/history.pdf Australian Commando Association New South Wales 1 Commando Association 11 June 2003 https://web.archive.org/web/20140611094211/http://www.1commando.com/History_files/history.pdf 11 June 2014 dead Major Grant was a World War II commando veteran having served in the 2/5 Independent Company and 2/12th Commando Squadron.Billett Jan Robert Denton MAJ Noel J (Rtd) Dedicated to his country's security https://www.theage.com.au/national/dedicated-to-his-countrys-security-20130822-2se8z.html The Age 23 August 2013 25 January 2022 2 Cdo Coy was raised in Victoria on 24 February 1955 under the command of Major Peter Seddon and first paraded on 7 July 1955. Seddon was appointed for only 12 months with his successor to be Major Jack Anderson. In October 1955, Grant and Anderson, along with two Warrant Officers Class II Ernie Tarr and Ron Smith, travelled to the United Kingdom to train with the Royal Marines (RM).Collins 2005 54,66,123 At the same time, two RM sergeants Mac McDermott and Len Holmes, the latter being Special Boat Service (SBS) trained, travelled to Australia to provide commando training with Holmes-based with 1 Cdo Coy and McDermott with 2 Cdo Coy.Collins 2005 51-54,91In 1955, McDermott and Holmes also provided commando and beach reconnaissance training on the Clearance Diving Course for the Navy's Clearance Diving Branch.Linton Commander E.W. (Jake) Donohue Commodore H.J (Hec) United and undaunted : the first 100 years : a history of diving in the Royal Australian Navy 1911–2011 2015 Grinkle Press Pty Ltd Queanbeyan, New South Wales 9780980282153 46–47Pre 1960 http://www.rancd-association.com/old/id22.htm RAN Clearance Divers Association https://web.archive.org/web/20150301131918fw_/http://www.rancd-association.com/old/id22.htm 1 March 2015 dead Note Anderson was drowned during the last week of the basic commando course and was replaced by Major John Hutcheson.Collins 2005 92 In May 1956, Grant and Hutcheson returned to Australia after six months of training having been awarded the green beret by 42 Commando.Collins 2005 88,92 Tarr and Smith undertook 12 months of training, including with the Cliff Assault Wing and the SBS, returning to Australia in November 1956 to become training instructors.Collins 2005 123 Grant has said that the defence planning staff convinced the government to form the commando companies with the role "...of conducting clandestine operations similar to those mounted by special operations also those of the Independent Companies/Commando Squadrons. It was envisaged that by raising units capable of performing such a dual role, a pool of trained manpower would be available to be "farmed off" as necessary to a special operations unit while the remainder would be used in more conventional commando operations."Collins 2005 41,84Grant William 'Mac' Reserve Commandos inherit a remarkable legacy (part 1) http://www.defencereserves.com/cms_resources/documents/yearbook_21_30.pdf 28 July 2016 Defence Reserves Yearbook 2004-2005 Australian Defence Force Executive Media Pty Ltd dead https://web.archive.org/web/20110602002655/http://www.defencereserves.com/cms_resources/documents/yearbook_21_30.pdf 2 June 2011 The Australian Secret Intelligence Service had earlier been formed in 1952 within the Department of Defence whose role included ".. plan for and conduct special operations..".Toohey Pinwill Brian William Oyster: the story of the Australian Secret Intelligence Service 1989 William Heinemann Australia Port Melbourne 978-0855612504 https://books.google.com/books?id=iEgwAAAAYAAJMacklin Robert Warrior Elite: Australia's Special Forces Z Force to the SAS Intelligence Operations to Cyber Warfare 2015 Hachette Australia Sydney, NSW 9780733632914Grant William 'Mac' Reserve Commandos inherit a remarkable legacy (part 2) http://www.defencereserves.com/cms_resources/documents/yearbook_31_40.pdf 28 July 2016 Defence Reserves Yearbook 2004-2005 Australian Defence Force Executive Media Pty Ltd dead https://web.archive.org/web/20110602002655/http://www.defencereserves.com/cms_resources/documents/yearbook_31_40.pdf 2 June 2011 Commando courses included basic parachutist, diving, small scale raids, demolitions, climbing and roping and unarmed combat.Collins 2005 64 1 Cdo Coy held the first diving course in November/December 1957 using a pure oxygen re-breather the Swimmer Canoeist Breathing Apparatus borrowed from the Navy based on training received from the SBS.Collins 2005 123-124Murphy Brian Warrant Officer Class 2 Ernest Charles Tarr Commando News / Australian Commando Association Inc. April 2016 Edition 7 https://www.commando.org.au/resources/Commando-News/Commando-News-07.pdf Statewide Publishing Surfers Paradise Libraries Australia ID 56517091 10–11 https://web.archive.org/web/20191231170225/https://www.commando.org.au/resources/Commando-News/Commando-News-07.pdf 31 December 2019 dead In 1957, as the unit already had the designation "1st" within its title, the Army thought it would be a convenient framework on which to re-form the Australian Imperial Force's 1st Battalion. So on 1 December 1957 the unit was re-designated the 1st Infantry Battalion (Commando), keeping this title until 22 August 1966 when the unit was renamed the 1st Battalion, The Royal New South Wales Regiment (Commando), City of Sydney's Own Regiment.Collins 2005 62,75 Finally in May 1973 the unit name at last changed back to the former designation of the 1 Commando Company.Collins 2005 174 In 1958, the 1st Commando Company provided the initial training for the recently formed 1st Special Air Service Company, the Royal Australian Regiment.Collins 2005 65 On the evening of 17 February 1960, 74 commandos from 2 Cdo Coy set off in kayaks, amphibious DUKW (ducks) and zodiacs on a training exercise from Point Lonsdale to Point Nepean in Victoria simulating a raid on the Officer Cadet School (OCS), Portsea, which involved them crossing the infamous Rip at the entrance to Port Phillip Bay. The weather changed without warning and the watercraft were swept out to sea through the Port Phillip Heads encountering massive seas that capsized most watercraft. Nearly all commandos were rescued except three who drowned.Collins 2005 99-102Rip inquest is told of 'turn-back' order https://news.google.com/newspapers?nid=1300&dat=19600601&id=gZ8UAAAAIBAJ&sjid=TasDAAAAIBAJ&pg=6884,50148&hl=en The Age 1 June 1960Higgins Barry The Rip http://www.cdoassoc.com/2Commando/TheRip.htm Australian Commando Association 9 September 2012 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20120903231200/http://www.cdoassoc.com/2Commando/TheRip.htm 3 September 2012 2nd Commando Company developed a Mountain Leader's Course in ski patrolling, as well as rock, ice and snow climbing.Collins 2005 104 In 1968, 2 Cdo Coy moved to Fort Gellibrand at Williamstown from Ripponlea. The company had originally been based at Sandringham then sometime between 1957 and 1958 moved to HMAS Cerberus before moving to Ripponlea in 1958.Collins 2005 84,93-94,106-107A brief history of the 2 Commando Company depots Commando News / Australian Commando Association Inc. 2020 Edition 3 https://www.commando.org.au/resources/Commando-Magazine/Commando-edition-3-2020-hi-res-pdf.pdf Statewide Publishing Surfers Paradise Libraries Australia ID 56517091 16 https://web.archive.org/web/20210321085450/https://www.commando.org.au/resources/Commando-Magazine/Commando-edition-3-2020-hi-res-pdf.pdf 21 March 2021 dead 301st and 126th Signal Squadrons The requirement for long-range communications can be traced back to WWII and units such as Coastwatchers, New Guinea Air Warning Wireless Company, the Independent Companies, and Z Special Unit.Larner Lorrain 2000 On 30 April 1958, a decision was made to raise No 1 Independent Signals Squadron to support clandestine operations and this led to the formation of 301st Signal Squadron (Home Defence) in 1960 at Lidcombe, New South Wales.Collins 2005 131 This new squadron was to meet the requirement for 'special communications' and was charged with the responsibility of providing long-range communications for commando-type operations and was augmented with regular army members in 1963.Larner Lorrain 2000 In December 1964, 301st Signal Squadron was re-designated 126th Signal Squadron, later to 126th Signal Squadron (Special Forces) in January 1966 and subsequently relocated to Albert Park, Victoria and in 1972 to Simpson Barracks in Watsonia, Victoria.Larner Lorrain 2000 Women had been serving in the signals squadron since 1964 as cipher clerks and from 1968 as radio operators.Collins 2005 133,140 In 1978, the signals squadron was provided with approval to wear the green beret with the Corps of Signals badge.Collins 2005 132,148Larner Lorrain 2000 In 1981, signaller Kerry Hiam became the first woman to qualify and be awarded a green beret.Collins 2005 134,191Larner Lorrain 2000 Borneo and Vietnam Prior to formation as a regiment, the sub units deployed individuals and small teams to the Borneo confrontation and the Vietnam War.Collins 2005 134,137-140,155-168 During the Borneo confrontation, Sergeant Ted Blacker of 126th Signal Squadron (Special Forces) was awarded the British Empire Medal.Collins 2005 140 From 1965 the Commando Companies contributed numerous instructors, including from their reserve part-time component, to the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam (AATTV).Lt Colonel Harry Smith SG MC (Retired) – Officer Commanding D Coy, 6RAR http://battleoflongtan.reddunefilms.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Long-Tan-Harry-Smith-Biography.pdf Battle of Long Tan Blog 25 May 2016 24 June 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160624194419/http://battleoflongtan.reddunefilms.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Long-Tan-Harry-Smith-Biography.pdf dead Two lost their lives with the AATTV, with Warrant Officer Class II John Durrington being killed in action, and Warrant Officer Class II Ron Scott dying of wounds. Whilst serving with the AATTV, Warrant Officer Class II Ray Simpson, formerly from both the Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) and the 1st Commando Company, was awarded the Victoria Cross for an action in the Kontum Province on 6 May 1969.Collins 2005 164 Formation of Regimental Headquarters All sub-units operated independently, training Army Reserve commandos and special forces signalers until 1981 when it was determined a regimental headquarters was required.Collins 2005 185 This headquarters would coordinate the efforts of the previously independent units and provide the east coast command element for the newly established counter-terrorist capability within the SASR. Collins 2005 185,187 The headquarters was established on 1 February 1981 and from 1 July 1981 was based at Randwick Barracks in Randwick, New South Wales.Collins 2005 185,187 126 Signal Squadron (Special Forces) was renamed 126 Signal Squadron.Memory Lane http://www.austcdoassocvic.com/126SigSqn/info1.htm 126 Signal Squadron Association https://web.archive.org/web/20140430030535/http://www.austcdoassocvic.com/126SigSqn/info1.htm 30 April 2014 usurped January 2004 In 1991, a 1 Cdo Coy commando who had joined the British Army Special Air Service was in the well-known Bravo Two Zero patrol in Iraq as part of Operation Desert Storm.Collins 2005 195 In 1992, 126 Signal Squadron qualified signallers were given approval to wear the commando badge.Collins 2005 223 Commencing in February 1997, 1 Cdo Regt provided the initial training for the re-role of the 4th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (4RAR) from an infantry battalion into commando 4RAR (Cdo) raising the Commando Training Wing (the predecessor to the Special Forces Training Centre) commanded by Major Hans Fleer.Collins 2005 230,243-247,271 In July 1997, three women officers, Lieutenants Fellows, Warren-Smith and Woods, became the first women to complete the commando officer selection course.Cross Paul Elite women make history http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article267359276 Army: The Soldiers' Newspaper 10 July 1997 933 Department of Defence Canberra 0729-5685 1 November 2023 3Collins 2005 2359 August 1997 Female Green Berets Television production A Current Affair Nine Network The women were barred from serving in combat roles. In 1998, the Army dropped plans to raise a third reserve company in Queensland for the regiment due to a lack of resources.Collins 2005 248 In September 1999, 126 Signal Squadron became an independent unit providing support to 1 Cdo Regt and 4RAR Cdo reporting directly to Headquarters Special Operations.Cdos gain sigs unit http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article267229191 Army: The Soldiers' Newspaper 16 September 1999 985 Department of Defence Canberra 0729-5685 1 November 2023 5Mulholland Lorraine Commando sig unit raised http://nla.gov.au/nla.news-article267231271 Army: The Soldiers' Newspaper 30 September 1999 986 Department of Defence Canberra 0729-5685 1 November 2023 16 In 2000, the squadron transitioned to a Regular Army unit based at Holsworthy Barracks under the command of 4RAR Cdo.1st Commando Regiment http://www.army.gov.au/Who-we-are/Divisions-and-Brigades/Special-Operations-Command/1st-Commando-Regiment Australian Army 31 October 2023 https://web.archive.org/web/20120227113712/http://www.army.gov.au/Who-we-are/Divisions-and-Brigades/Special-Operations-Command/1st-Commando-Regiment 27 February 2012 dead In June 2002, 301 Signal Squadron was re-raised at Randwick Barracks to provide communications and information systems and electronic warfare to facilitate the command and control of special operations conducted by the regiment.Collins 2005 265History of 1 Commando Regiment http://www.army.gov.au/1commando/history.htm Australian Army https://web.archive.org/web/20040327223335/http://www.army.gov.au/1commando/history.htm 27 March 2004 dead In 2006, 1 Cdo Coy relocated from Georges Heights in Mosman to HMAS Penguin in Balmoral.Brooke Michael Commando collocation http://www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews/editions/1136/topstories/story13.htm Army: The Soldiers' Newspaper 1136 9 February 2006 https://web.archive.org/web/20110404162507/http://www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews/editions/1136/topstories/story13.htm 4 April 2011 Department of Defence Canberra 0729-5685 Recent operations thumb|right|Special Operations Task Group in Afghanistan during 2009-10 winter with Bushmaster vehicle In recent years, the regiment has provided small detachments and individuals to peacekeeping missions. Deployments in the region, include to Bougainville as part of Operation Bel-Isi,Collins 2005 261-262 to Timor Leste (East Timor) in 2001 as part of Operation Tanager with the regiment providing a substantial reinforcement to A Company 4RAR (Cdo), which had been re-roled from commando to light infantry, of one officer and forty-one Regular Army and Army Reserve commandos,Collins 2005 252-255Martinelli Lt. Peter Special Operations Command: Mission rehearsal provides explosive reality Defence Magazine 2009 9 41 http://www.defence.gov.au/defencemagazine/editions/2009_9/defmag_0909.pdf Department of Defence 1446-229X https://web.archive.org/web/20120405034533/http://www.defence.gov.au/defencemagazine/editions/2009_9/defmag_0909.pdf 5 April 2012 deadHorner Bou 2008 316-317 and to the Solomon Islands as part of Operation Anode.Collins 2005 261 In May 2006, following unrest in Timor Leste, a Special Forces component consisting of a commando company from 4RAR Cdo and a SASR troop deployed to Timor Leste as peacekeepers as part of Operation Astute.Blaxland 2014 198,201Farrell John Hunter Dili Madness: The ANZAC Intervention in Timor Leste Australian & NZ Defender Fullbore Magazines 55 Spring 2006 34 1322-039X The Special Forces component was later reduced and supplemented by 1 Cdo Regt teams often commanded by a member of the 1 Cdo Regt.April 2021 In March 2007, the Special Forces component was bolstered to form an Apprehension Task Group with the purpose of apprehending ex-Timorese Army Major and rebel leader, Alfredo Reinado, at the request of the Timor Leste government.Timor ANZAC Battle Group Australian & NZ Defender Fullbore Magazines 58 Winter 2007 25–26 1322-039XBlaxland 2014 203 Reinado was located in the village of Same and approval was given to assault his compound. Reinado evaded capture but four of his men were killed in the battle. For the commandos of the 1 Cdo Regt who participated in the mission the battle was the first combat seen by the unit (at greater than individual level).April 2021 Over a hundred Army Reserve commandos from the regiment served in Operation Astute during this period.Blaxland 2014 204 In late 2008, the regiment deployed an entire Commando Company Group to the Special Operations Task Group (SOTG) in Afghanistan during the Afghan winter as part of Operation Slipper to relieve the SOTG that had up until then consisted of rotating SASR and 2 Cdo Regt elements.1st Commando Regiment Contact Air Land & Sea December 2014 44 46 https://www.contactairlandandsea.com/free_contact/contact44/con44_pdf.pdf 29 October 2023 Contact Publishing Minnamurra, New South Wales 1449-2385IGADF 2020 26,252-253 This constituted the first deployment of an Australian Army Reserve Force Element on combat operations since World War II. The composition of the SOTG was structured into elements with the regiment's contribution designated Force Element Charlie.Afghanistan Inquiry Report Inspector-General of the Australian Defence Force 2020 26, 253 https://www.defence.gov.au/sites/default/files/2021-10/IGADF-Afghanistan-Inquiry-Public-Release-Version.pdf 25 October 2023 Commonwealth of Australia IGADF 2020 2207-6069 Force Element Charlie provided the main SOTG element for the following winter rotations in 2009-2010 and 2010-2011 conducting population-centric operations.IGADF 2020 26One Commando Regiment Army Reservists reach out to Oruzgan http://www.defence.gov.au/media/DepartmentalTpl.cfm?CurrentId=10046 http://webarchive.nla.gov.au/awa/20110604230102/http://www.defence.gov.au/media/DepartmentalTpl.cfm?CurrentId=10046 dead 4 June 2011 Department of Defence 16 March 2010 MECC 67/10medic The regiment also contributed commandos to the 2 Cdo Regt to reinforce their element designated Force Element Bravo.IGADF 2020 26 The regiment served in six SOTG rotations.Operation Slipper – Where did people deploy from? http://www.army.gov.au/Our-history/History-in-Focus/Operation-Slipper/Deployed-personnel-by-location Australian Army 25 May 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20161010184413/http://www.army.gov.au/Our-history/History-in-Focus/Operation-Slipper/Deployed-personnel-by-location 10 October 2016 dead dmy-all A rotation ranged between four and five months. The first Afghan deployment was composed of 1 Cdo Coy personnel supplemented by 2 Cdo Coy personnel for SOTG Rotation VIII.Significant Commando Dates October to December Commando News / Australian Commando Association Inc. November 2024 Edition 20 https://www.yumpu.com/en/document/read/69391129/commando-news-magazine-edition-20-nov-2024 Statewide Publishing Surfers Paradise Libraries Australia ID 56517091 17Mullins 2011 35 It was commanded by the Major OC 1 Cdo Coy and arrived in November 2008 for a four-month tour of duty until February 2009.Vice Admiral RANR Christopher Ritchie Chris Ritchie Inquiry Officer's Report into Matters Relating to the Force Preparation, Training, Certification and Leadership Associated with the Force Element Identified in the Inquiry Officer's Report into the Death of Lieutenant M.K.H. Fussell https://www.defence.gov.au/Publications/COI/reports/Fussell20091102a.pdf Department of Defence 23 July 2009 3, 4, 19 https://web.archive.org/web/20140708143944/https://www.defence.gov.au/Publications/COI/reports/Fussell20091102a.pdf 8 July 2014 dead On 27 November 2008, Lieutenant Michael Fussell, a specialist Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) from 4RAR Cdo serving in the Commando Company Group, was killed in action after he stood on an IED during a night infiltration onto a target.Col. T.J. McCullagh Inquiry Officer's Report into the Death of Lieutenant M.K.H. Fussell in Afghanistan on 27th November 2008 http://www.defence.gov.au/Publications/COI/reports/Fussell20091102b.pdf Department of Defence 4-5, 7-8 23 December 2008 https://web.archive.org/web/20140708143958/http://www.defence.gov.au/Publications/COI/reports/Fussell20091102b.pdf 8 July 2014 dead Following Fussell's death several senior personnel asked to be relieved of their positions due to concerns over the Major and after an inquiry into the death, the Major was relieved of his command and returned to Australia.Hyland Tom Deadly Afghan raids expose leadership Failings https://www.smh.com.au/world/deadly-afghan-raids-expose-leadership-failings-20100320-qn9t.html 10 July 2016 The Sydney Morning Herald 21 March 2010 The inquiry raised issues into the Commando Company Group outside the scope of its terms that instigated the appointment of Vice Admiral (retired) Chris Ritchie to conduct a further inquiry that found that the Group had been inadequately trained and prepared for its deployment, and that concerns over the Major's leadership should have been acted on before the Group deployed.Nicholson Brendan Major sacked after soldier's death https://www.smh.com.au/national/major-sacked-after-soldiers-death-20091102-htgt.html The Sydney Morning Herald 2 November 2009 10 July 2016 On 4 January 2009, the regiment suffered its first combat fatality when Private Gregory Sher (2 Cdo Coy) was killed by a rocket attack into a patrol base. On 12 February 2009, the Group conducted a night compound clearance in the Sorkh Morghab region with elements of the Afghan National Army and with Afghan interpreters.Grasswill Davis Helen Sharon Australian Story: Former commando 'can't atone' for special forces raid that killed Afghan children http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-05-23/soldier's-story-exposes-serious-flaws-in-deadly-adf-raid/7435548 ABC News Australian Story 23 October 2016 25 May 2016Into The Fog Of War Part One - Transcript http://www.abc.net.au/austory/content/2015/s4418759.htm Australian Story ABC 23 May 2016 23 October 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20161024023213/http://www.abc.net.au/austory/content/2015/s4418759.htm 24 October 2016 dead Corporal W saw, through a window, a male holding an AK-47 rifle pointed at a door that his team was preparing to use to enter the room to clear and fired at him through the window with his rifle.Hyland Tom Lost in the fog of war https://www.smh.com.au/national/lost-in-the-fog-of-war-20120211-1sybr.html 23 October 2016 Sydney Morning Herald 12 February 2012 The male returned fire and ignored calls made for him to come out. With fire continuing, and the team being unable to retreat, two grenades were thrown by Lance Corporal M to clear the room. The room was entered, whereupon soldiers found women and children present, with five fatalities (three children and two babies) having been inflicted, along with the male, Amrullah Khan, a farmer whose family claimed had no affiliation with the Taliban. The Australian Director of Military Prosecutions, Brigadier Lyn McDade, decided to charge two members of the regiment, Sergeant J, who gave the order to use grenades, and Lance Corporal M, who threw the grenades, with manslaughter as a result of an investigation into the engagement, coming to the view that they ought to have known, and during the attack then certainly have been aware that women and children were in the room.Statement by the Director of Military Prosecutions - Media Release http://www.defence.gov.au/media/2010/release1.htm Department of Defence 10 July 2016Davis Grasswill Sharon Helen Australian commandos' role in deaths of five Afghan children questioned https://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-05-14/new-controversy-about-australian-commando-role-in-child-deaths/7414290 ABC News Australian Story 23 October 2016 22 May 2016 The charges against the two soldiers were dismissed pre-trial by the Judge Advocate in June 2011.Oakes Dan Afghan deaths case closed https://www.smh.com.au/national/afghan-deaths-case-closed-20110817-1iy9e.html The Sydney Morning Herald 17 August 2011 18 August 2011 10 July 2016 Charges against Lieutenant Colonel M who, based in Kandahar, ordered the clearance of the compound, were withdrawn in August 2011 for disobeying standard operating procedures to prevent innocent Afghan nationals in their homes being wrongfully targeted. Customs and traditions In February 2025, the Special Warfare khaki beret became the primary headdress.1st Commando Regiment Beret Parade https://www.facebook.com/SOCOMD/posts/pfbid02JjWkxBLisuEC8E1fBWSqUmMXdzCUzRfKjmVCHgBEYhuw2iATCgxDwbZ4jaub7h5Hl Special Operations Command Australia Facebook page Facebook 28 February 2025 27 February 2025 Prior to this, the Sherwood Green Commando beret was worn as the primary headdress, formally recognising Commando qualification. The Army sought permission from the Royal Marines to wear the green beret which was provided on 27 July 1955 by the Commandant General, Royal Marines.Collins 2005 36 The first green beret awarded in Australia was presented to Captain George Cardy, then Adjutant/Quartermaster of 1st Commando Company, at Victoria Barracks, Sydney on 14 July 1956.Collins 2005 60-61 Incidentally, Sgt Len Holmes RM, who won the coveted King's Badge on his RM qualifying course in the UK, was awarded the second green beret presented on that parade, exchanging it for the dark blue SBS beret. The Director of Infantry advised that the Infantry Corps badge should not be worn and that the commandos should have their own badge.Collins 2005 37 A regimental badge was created featuring a silver World War II-era fighting knife surmounted by a gold boomerang engraved with the regimental motto "Strike Swiftly".Collins 2005 88 The motto was conceived by Major Mac Grant, the first commander of 1st Commando Company, from reading the book "Swiftly They Struck" and agreed to by Major Peter Seddon, his opposite number in the 2nd Commando Company.Collins 2005 88 The badge was a combination of two proposals from a competition, one from Melbourne and one from Sydney, conceived by Grant with agreement from Seddon.Collins 2005 88 Members wear a Garter Blue lanyard on the left shoulder of dress uniforms in common with the other combat units of SOCOMD.Terrett Leslie Taubert Stephen Preserving our Proud Heritage: The Customs and Traditions of the Australian Army 2015 Big Sky Publishing Newport, New South Wales 9781925275544 117 https://books.google.com/books?id=6-P2tAEACAAJ In 1991, distinctive black and green commando parachute wings were adopted and are now worn by all parachute qualified commandos.O'Connor 2005 118Collins 2005 223 While there is no direct lineage to the 1st Battalion, AIF, other than in the 1st Commando Company's renaming to the 1st Battalion (Commando), the regiment retains the colours of the battalion's World War I colour patch – black over green – which are highlighted on the current 1 Cdo Regt flag.1st Commando Regiment http://www.army.gov.au/Our-people/Units/Special-Operations-Command/1st-Commando-Regiment Australian Army 18 November 2019 https://web.archive.org/web/20200313202234/https://www.army.gov.au/Our-people/Units/Special-Operations-Command/1st-Commando-Regiment 13 March 2020 dead Organisation The Regiment consists of a headquarters, two commando companies and a signals squadron with a strength about 450. It is organised as follows: Regimental Headquarters located at Randwick Barracks in Randwick, New South Wales 1 Commando Company (1 Cdo Coy) located at HMAS Penguin in Balmoral, New South Wales 2 Commando Company (2 Cdo Coy) located in the historic Fort Gellibrand at Williamstown, Victoria 301 Signal Squadron (301 Sig Sqn) headquarters at Randwick Barracks and elements of the squadron are located with 1 Cdo Coy, 2 Cdo Coy, Canberra and the Special Operations Engineer RegimentSignaller: The Magazine of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals 2015 Each commando company consists of a headquarters, two commando platoons, a reconnaissance platoon, a training platoon and integral combat service support elements.Introduction – 1st Commando Regiment http://www.defence.gov.au/Army/1commando/Intro.htm Australian Army 2004 https://web.archive.org/web/20050307002101/http://www.defence.gov.au/Army/1commando/Intro.htm 7 March 2005 dead Combat elements of the regiment typically operate in platoon to company sized force elements. These will be force tailored by requirement and may not fit any doctrinal size or command and control. The signal squadron has the largest full-time contingent in the regiment.Signaller: The Magazine of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals 2015 Reserve support roles include clerical, logistics, transport, medical, intelligence, linguistics and information systems. Equipment 1 Cdo Regt is equipped similar to 2 Cdo Regt with a range of weapon systems that allows it to tailor requirements based on mission needs. These include the M4A1 5.56mm carbine,Mullins 2011 149 which can be fitted with a M203 40 mm grenade launcher,Mullins 2011 148 and the Heckler & Koch USP 9mm pistol as primary weapons. Specialist weapons include the Heckler & Koch HK417 7.62mm rifle, Heckler & Koch MP5SD silenced submachine gun, Accuracy International SR98 7.62mm sniper rifle, SR-25 7.62mm sniper rifleMullins 2011 226 and Barrett M82 12.7mm anti-materiel rifle. Support weapons include the Minimi 5.56mm light machine gun,Historic base opens doors to employers https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/267106217 Army: The Soldiers' Newspaper 901 4 April 1996 19 Department of Defence Canberra, Australia 0729-5685 Maximi 7.62mm machine gun, MAG 58 7.62mm medium machine gun,Mullins 2011 141 M2HB QCB 12.7mm heavy machine gun,Mullins 2011 84 M3 Carl Gustav 84mm anti-tank weapon,Mullins 2011 141 Mk 47 Striker automatic grenade launcher, Javelin anti-tank weapon, and the M72 LAW 66mm rocket launcherMullins 2011 84 The primary commando watercraft is the Zodiac F470 inflatable boat.McBean Graham Water Ops https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/page/29994466 Army magazine December 1996 29 14 1034-3695 Australian Army Newspaper Unit Recruitment section February 2025 In the early to mid-2020s, the regiment’s role changed from providing individual reserve commandos to round out and reinforce the full-time 2nd Commando Regiment to Special Warfare thumb|right|Commandos from 1st Commando Company parachute with inflatable boats from an RAAF C-130H into Shoalwater Bay during an exercise in 2001 The regiment is the only reserve SOCOMD combat unit providing reservists based in the eastern states of Australia the opportunity to serve in a commando unit. Additionally, the regiment provides discharging Regular Army SOCOMD soldiers the opportunity to continue to serve in SOCOMD in a reserve capacity on their return to civilian life. Before the raising of 2 Cdo Regt, the regiment's Regular Army cadre consisted of soldiers transferred from the SASR.Rottman 1989 32 Changes introduced to reserve training after combat operations in Afghanistan, required candidates to complete the 332-day continuous full-time Commando Initial Employment Training course the same as their 2 Cdo Regt Regular Army counterparts. However, this provided reserve candidates with the opportunity to consider service in the Regular Army with 2 Cdo Regt with many candidates destined for the regiment instead choosing 2 Cdo Regt. Also, the long full-time commitment discouraged Reservists from considering joining the regiment. In 2015, Army: the soldiers' newspaper reported the regiment had begun its biggest reserve recruitment drive in over 10 years. A training regime similar to the one prior to Afghanistan operations, was introduced with candidates after completing the selection course posted to the regiment and given a three-year term to complete training. The regiment was also re-raising training platoons in each of the commando companies to host Army Reserve aspirants training for selection. In addition, in 2016 Australian Infantry Magazine reported that direct civilian recruiting would recommence with prospective commandos undergoing Reserve Recruit Training Course at Kapooka before parading at the regiment in the training platoon to prepare to complete the Infantry Initial Employment Training (IET) to became a qualified Infantry rifleman the same as serving Reservists in the training platoons.1 Commando Regiment in Focus Australian Infantry Magazine April 2016-October 2016 1447-5545Commando Employment Training http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/army/jobs/Commando/EmploymentTraining/ Defence Jobs Department of Defence https://web.archive.org/web/20151221224613/http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/army/jobs/Commando/EmploymentTraining/ 21 December 2015 deadTraining options – 1st Commando Regiment http://www.defence.gov.au/army/1commando/trainingoptions.htm Australian Army 6 January 2006 dead https://web.archive.org/web/20060106071016/http://www.defence.gov.au/army/1commando/trainingoptions.htm 6 January 2006 Selection and training section February 2025 In the early to mid-2020s, the regiment’s role changed from providing individual reserve commandos to round out and reinforce the full-time 2nd Commando Regiment to Special Warfare thumb|right|A Commando helocasting from a Black Hawk helicopter into Shoalwater Bay during Exercise Talisman Saber 2013 To prepare for selection, training platoon candidates have 12 months to complete the Special Forces Reserve Training Program, based on the 2 Cdo Regt Special Forces Direct Recruitment 12-week Special Forces Accelerated Infantry Training Program, including the 17-week Commando Physical Training Package.Commando - Reserve (Part Time) https://www.defencejobs.gov.au/jobs/reserves/army/commando Defence Jobs Department of Defence http://webarchive.nla.gov.au/awa/20190509113706/https://www.defencejobs.gov.au/jobs/reserves/army/commando 9 May 2019 dead 23 May 2023 medic The first stage of selection is to successfully pass the one-day Special Forces Entry Test.Special Forces Screen Test http://2commando.gov.au/careers/special-forces-screen-test 2nd Commando Regiment – Defence Jobs 25 May 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160501074937/http://2commando.gov.au/careers/special-forces-screen-test 2016-05-01 dead The second stage of selection is successfully completing the Commando Selection Course conducted over two weeks. Commando Initial Employment training (also called the "reinforcement cycle") commences after successful completion of the Commando Selection Course. Candidates have three years to successfully complete the course. This cycle consists of numerous courses including: the "Special Forces Weapons Course, Advanced Close Quarter Battle Course, Commando Team Tactics Course, Commando Urban Operations Course, Close Quarter Fighting Course, Commando Demolitions and Breaching Course, Special Forces Basic Parachute Course (including water insertion training), Commando Amphibious Operators Course, Special Forces Military Roping Course, and Combat First Aid or Special Forces Signal Course". Candidates have the option of completing the reinforcement cycle over 12 months full-time training with their 2 Cdo Regt counterparts.Reinforcement Training http://2commando.gov.au/careers/reinforcement-training 2nd Commando Regiment – Defence Jobs 25 May 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160516154507/http://2commando.gov.au/careers/reinforcement-training 2016-05-16 dead After the successful completion of Commando Initial Employment Training, the Green beret is awarded and reservists will report to the regiment on a frequent basis to maintain their skills. As a qualified Commando there are specialist courses available to complete, including but not limited to: advanced driving, mortars, cold weather / mountaineering, language training and free fall parachuting.Specialist Training http://2commando.gov.au/careers/specialist-training 2nd Commando Regiment – Defence Jobs 25 May 2016 https://web.archive.org/web/20160516135113/http://2commando.gov.au/careers/specialist-training 2016-05-16 dead New signallers to 301st Signal Squadron have to complete the Special Forces Signaller Course (SFSC).Signaller: The Magazine of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals 2015 Notes Footnotes Note Citations 30em References https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/page/31736948 New SF category Army: The Soldiers' Newspaper 1548 23 November 2023 Department of Defence Canberra 0729-5685 CITEREFArmy:_The_Soldiers'_Newspaper2023 15 November 2025 Blaxland John John Blaxland (historian) The Australian Army from Whitlam to Howard 2014 Cambridge University Press Port Melbourne, Victoria 9781107043657 Collins Peter Strike Swiftly: The Australian Commando Story 2005 Watermark Press Sydney 978-0949284709 Gilby Sgt Noel Commandos https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/267385423/29994464 Army magazine December 1996 29 1034-3695 Australian Army Newspaper Unit 5 March 2025 Trove Horner David David Horner Bou Jean 2008 Duty First: A History of the Royal Australian Regiment Second Allen & Unwin Crows Nest, New South Wales 9781741753745 Horner David SAS: Phantoms of the Jungle—A History of the Australian Special Air Service 1989 1st Allen & Unwin St Leonards, New South Wales 978-1-86373-007-5 L MAJ 301st Signal Squadron... http://www.signaller.com.au/?12 Signaller: The Magazine of the Royal Australian Corps of Signals July 2015 https://web.archive.org/web/20160528102504/http://www.signaller.com.au/?12 28 May 2016 dead CITEREFSignaller:_The Magazine_of_the_Royal_Australian_Corps_of_Signals2015 Larner K.E. Lorrain L.P. 126 Signal Squadron (Special Forces) - An Anecdotal History 1960-1997 2000 Larner, Keith 978-0646404202 [electronic resource] Irvine David David Irvine (diplomat) Review of Special Operations Command - Australian Army https://afghanistaninquiry.defence.gov.au/sites/default/files/2020-11/Irvine-Report-2020-Review-of-SOCOMD-Australian-Army.pdf Australian Army 15 June 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20220417013944/https://afghanistaninquiry.defence.gov.au/sites/default/files/2020-11/Irvine-Report-2020-Review-of-SOCOMD-Australian-Army.pdf 17 April 2022 dead Macrae Sgt Ian Special action team https://trove.nla.gov.au/newspaper/article/267398538 Army magazine 1990 3 1034-3695 Australian Army Newspaper Unit 6 March 2025 Trove Mullins Nathan Keep Your Head Down 2011 Allen & Unwin Crows Nest, New South Wales 9781742377940 https://books.google.com/books?id=orq2RcQraQQC O'Connor John Australian Airborne : The History and Insignia of Australian Military Parachuting 2005 J. O'Connor Kingsgrove 9780957942110 Rottman Gordon L World special forces insignia 1989 Osprey Publishing London Elite series 22 085045865X Further reading Strike Swiftly! Australia's 1st Commandoes Combat and Survival magazine September 1992 4 6 0955-9841 Higgins Barry John Strike Swiftly: 40 Years of 2 Commando Company, 1955 to 1995 1995 Traralgon, Victoria Barry John Higgins 9780646222080 Documentaries Holden, Roger (director) Montgomery, James (writer) 1985 Strike Swiftly Television documentary The Jaypat Studio Humphrey, Sonia (producer and director) 1991 Till Something Breaks https://www.screenaustralia.gov.au/screen-guide/till-something-breaks-5039/ Television documentary Film Australia Limited External links Commando Welfare Trust Australian Commando Association Victoria Commando News Magazine 126 Signal Squadron (Special Forces) Defence Image Gallery - One Commando Regiment Army Reservists reach out to Oruzgan Category:Regiments of Australia Category:Special forces of Australia Category:Airborne units and formations of Australia Category:Military units and formations established in 1981