Australian Independent Commando squad

The Australian Army raised a number of units for commando-style operations during the Second World War – the first being the twelve Independent Commando Companies formed between 1941 and 1942.

Predominantly serving in New Guinea, the Dutch East Indies and Borneo their task was to perform raids, demolition, sabotage, subversion, and organisation of civil resistance against the Japanese. The Independent Companies saw heavy action, serving with considerable distinction.

Commandos also formed ad hoc formations such as Kanga Force – a composite formation of Commando companies and the New Guinea Volunteer Rifles which undertook raids and reconnaissance operations in New Guinea.

Commandos were also the basis for M Special Units and its more famous counterpart, Z Force. Conducting covert operations in the South West Pacific against the Japanese, these units were formed with volunteers from Australia, Britain, New Zealand, and the Dutch East Indies

As the war drew to a close the Independent Companies would be used in more traditional infantry roles, their trademark Owen Gun submachine guns and distinctive berets marking them out as soldiers worthy of respect from friend and foe alike.

Contains a 10-man section:

• 1 NCO with SMG
• 2-man Bren Gun LMG?team
• 3 commandos with rifles
• 4 commandos with SMGs