Have Any Members of Britain’s Special Air Service Regiment (SAS) Become Prisoners of War While on Active Duty?
Have members of Britain's feared Special Air Service (SAS) Regiment ever become prisoners of war (POW) while on active duty? This article delves into a notable instance, focusing on the SAS's pivotal role during the Iraq War.
Colonel Stirling and the SAS's Founding
The SAS has a storied history, rooted in its legendary founder, Colonel David Stirling. Stirling established the regiment during World War II, and its members have been critical assets in subsequent conflicts. However, even the storied SAS has had its share of challenges, including one notable case of a POW.
A Devastating Event in 2005: The Capture of Two SAS Commandos
In September 2005, a significant event unfolded that shocked the world and tested the resilience and resolve of the SAS. A British military operation in Basra, Iraq, went awry, resulting in the capture and subsequent torture of two SAS commandos, a name synonymous with exceptional stealth and vigilantism.
Operation Details and Initial Complications
The SAS operators had been conducting an undercover surveillance mission targeting corrupt Iraqi police and their suspected director working with insurgent groups. Engaging in a staunch intelligence operation, the SAS and their allies were under constant threat from various insurgent groups, particularly the brutal Mahdi Army, a Shia militia with backing from Iran. The Mahdi Army had already captured and brutally tortured other Coalition members, and the fate of the two SAS commandos was gravely uncertain.
Compromised Operation and Capture
During their mission, an Iraqi police officer (IP) who was identified as a collaborator became embroiled in a scuffle. In the ensuing chaos, the SAS operators were forced to neutralize the situation by firing their weapons, unintentionally wounding some of the Iraqi police. Mistakenly identified by an Iraqi police checkpoint using dubious tactics, the commandos found themselves handcuffed and taken to a local station.
Limited Possibilities for Rescue and Negotiations
The nascent situation seemed dire, as the SAS team to which they belonged lacked the manpower to conduct a rescue independently, despite numerous requests for support. The political environment at the time also indirectly impeded any rescue mission, with sensitive negotiations and media pressure preventing a full-scale operation. The Iraqi government accused the SAS of subversion, and pictures of their haggard and beaten appearance compounded the situation.
Escalating Tensions and Rescue Attempts
With time running out and public opinion heavily against the British intervention, reinforcements arrived in the form of an assault troop from A Squadron, supported by paratroopers from the Special Forces Support Group (SFSG). Unfortunately, the tense negotiations and escalating violence prompted an impromptu retreat that seemed to end in failure for the rescue team.
The Mission's Success and the SAS's Resilience
Despite the initial setbacks and the sharks circling in the diplomatic waters, the SAS did not give up. The team's relentless efforts led to the successful rescue of the two commandos. They had been held captive, severely beaten but still alive, and found in a bathroom during a daring raid reminiscent of their legendary methods.
Reflection on the SAS’s Mottos and Values
The SAS operates on the ethos captured in the phrase, "Who Dares Wins." This mantra not only reflects their mission but also embodies the tenacity and determination that defined their rescue efforts. From Colonel Stirling's establishment of the SAS to the courage of these modern-day commandos, the regiment continues to stand as a beacon of bravery and innovation in the world's most challenging combat zones.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of the SAS
This event serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by elite military units and the unwavering resolve of individuals serving their country. The SAS's history is a testament to their readiness to face almost any challenge, even when the odds seem stacked against them. While this instance involved the capture of two members by the Iraqi security forces, the SAS's spirit endures, and their commitment to their mission remains unyielding.