SOF in Large-Scale Combat Operations: An Operational-Level Analysis of the British SOE in Crete and Greece during World War II
Abstract
In a global environment characterized by increasing complexity and parity between 'great power' states, the possibility of large-scale combat operations is an emergent exigency. Application of Special Operations Forces (SOF) power is often thought of within the confines of low-intensity, or 'irregular' conflicts and not the manifestation of large-scale combat. This monograph seeks to identify the modes of special operations activities applied by the British Special Operations Executive (SOE) in Crete and Greece during World War II as a means to understand SOF roles, functions, capabilities, and limitations intrinsic of a large-scale conflict setting. When reconciled against contemporary doctrine, the SOE's activities affirm several USSOF doctrinal activities and tasks. The cumulative effects of the SOE's activities diverted, disrupted, delayed, and destroyed enemy forces relative to Allied conventional forces' deep areas or peripheral areas of interest, a significant planning consideration should a future large-scale conflict emerge.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 23, 2019
- Accession Number
- AD1083709
Entities
People
- Luke A. Wittmer
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College