There is little I can add to Clive’s exceptional synopsis of the Jedburgh program and its history, except in hopes of providing a little more context and influence.
Up to World War II America, at least, had little comparable experience in modern guerilla warfare to the rest of the world. Although there were a few commando type units throughout our own history, that background paled in comparison to global experience such as with the Chinese, the Boer War, and Zapata. Unconventional warfare, and its application, was not well developed and educated to most at the time. But conditions in Europe during World War II provided the settings for successful resistance movements. Although behind the stoic British early in the war, the U.S., France and allies learned quickly and operated in combined effort to great effectiveness. Although extremely successful then, the same use of these forces under the same conditions has been rare since.
The mission of the Jedburgh teams were also the catalyst for today’s Special Forces teams. Although application has changed somewhat, and today’s composition maybe more similar to the Operational Groups, the tasking for a single Operational Detachment Alpha to “train, equip, and a battalion size element” very much reflects the Jedburghs example in both influence and mission. The requirements for operations in denied areas such as language and military skill specialties to support that mission clearly mirror the Jeds in many aspects.
The combined nature of the Jedburgh teams was also remarkable. Allied cooperation in teams that represented such political and national diversity was unique in a time with little confidence and understanding to what those issues meant post war. Although the teams were very effective with the proper dynamics at lower levels, national interests did come into play at all levels of influence. Another early example of how special operations can have very unique political effects.
The OSS Operational Groups, or OG’s, were another element of the Office of Strategic Services task organized for special operations. Usually employed in larger numbers, they were assigned to accomplish specific missions that were often conducted in conjunction with the resistance, but not specifically organized and tasked with developing resistance.
Another point worth noting is that at least some of the OSS Operational Groups wore Special Force wings as well. It is very likely that this badge was not entirely exclusive to the Jedburgh program. This fact again reinforces the understanding that ‘authentic’ SF. wings came from various sources from all over the world and with slight differences in style and make. Many assuredly came from immediate post war specialty orders as keepsakes or replacements of originals.
Below are a few informative, enjoyable, but nonacademic works:
Operative, Saboteurs and Spies, by Patrick O’Donnell
The Jedburghs, by Will Irwin
Operation Jedburgh, by Colin Beaven
SOE in France, by MRD Foote - one of the most recognized, essential works
Also, a few credible sites for reference:
http://www.801492.org/Agents/AllJedburghs.html
http://www.ossog.org/
http://www.ossreborn.com/
We hope that this thread continues and expands with much more information, international flavor, and personal insights.
Thanks, Michael.