BRITAINS COMMANDOS

The Corps unique espirit de corps is derived from the commando ethos. The word originated in the Boer War, where a Commando was a small self-sustained fighting unit which carried everything it needed with it, and which conducted highly effective raids against its enemy - the British.

(Britannica Encyclopaedia)

The Coveted Green Beret (CGB) is a distinctive hallmark of the commando troops, indicating that those who wear it have attended and passed a gruelling and physically demanding test of endurance, by displaying the commando qualities of teamwork and cheerfulness in the face of adversity. Presented to those men who have passed all the commando tests. Worn by Royal Marines, Army Commandos and Royal Navy Commandos. The CGB was first worn in 1942 by Number 1 Commando. In addition to the Green Beret Royal Marines and Royal Naval ranks wear a Commando Flash to identify them, while Army ranks wear the Brigade insignia of a Commando Dagger on their left sleeve.

All Commando training is conducted at the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines Lympstone Nr Exmouth Devon. Royal Marine Recruits complete 30 weeks basic training, the longest for infantry soldiers in the world, Royal Marine Officers spend 14 months at Lympstone. Both must pass a separate commando course (4 weeks) successful completion entitles them to wear the Green Beret. Navy and Army ranks who are to serve with the Brigade generally complete the All Arms Commando Course (AACC) this comprises the same four weeks training as the Royal Marines with an additional short basic infantry skills phase.

COMMANDO TESTS

These are the final tests that every man must successfully complete in order to earn the coveted Green Beret. The test are taken in Full Fighting Order weighing between 30 (dry) and 40 (wet) pounds, it is usually always wet. Additionally each man carries his personal weapon the SA80 weighing 10 pounds. They are taken during 'Test Week' and must be passed during this week...

The Tests are:

  1. Tarzan Course >> 5 min for recruits 4.5 min for YO's  

  2. Tarzan Course and Assault Course >> 13 min for recruits 12.5 min for YO's  

  3. Endurance Course >> 73 min for recruits 70 min for YO's  

  4. 9 Mile Speed March >> 90 min for all  

  5. 6 Mile Speed March >> 60 min for all  

  6. 30 Mile Yomp >> 8 hours for recruits 7 hours for YO's  

  7. 30 Foot Rope Climb >> No time limit (the longer it takes the harder it is.)  

  8. Battle Swimming Test >> No time limit but Comprises 50m swim with Full Fighting Order and Weapon - remove kit and pass to side of pool then tread water for 2 min at no time touching the side.

NB After the 9 Mile Speed March each man must take part in a troop attack.
After the Endurance Course and Run back each man must be able to fire his weapon on the 25 meter range immediately (this tests both the ability to keep the weapon clean, fitness and stamina.

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