The First Special Service Force: The Devil Brigade (1942-44)

The Origins of the Devil Brigade

The First Special Service Force, commonly known as the Devil Brigade, was a unique and elite military unit formed during World War II. Established in 1942, this joint Canadian and American force became renowned for their specialized training, unconventional tactics, and fearless fighting spirit. The Devil Brigade played a pivotal role in several key campaigns, leaving a lasting legacy in military history.

Recruitment and Training

The process of selecting soldiers for the Devil Brigade was rigorous and demanding. Only the most skilled and physically fit individuals were chosen to become part of this elite force. Candidates underwent a series of grueling tests, including long-distance runs, obstacle courses, combat simulations, and psychological evaluations. The selected soldiers then went through intense training that focused on a wide range of specialized skills such as parachuting, mountain climbing, skiing, hand-to-hand combat, demolition, and sabotage.

From Italy to France: The Devil Brigade in Action

In 1943, the Devil Brigade saw their first major combat when they were deployed to Italy. Their swift and stealthy actions earned them a reputation as formidable guerrilla fighters. They specialized in nighttime raids, ambushes, and infiltration missions behind enemy lines. Their successes, combined with their distinctive black uniforms and skull insignia, struck fear into the hearts of their adversaries and earned them the nickname "The Black Devils."

Of Courage and Determination: The First Special Service Force, "The Devil's Brigade," 1942-44

by Bernd Horn(Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11028 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	409 pages

FREE

The Daring Raid on Monte la Difensa

One of the most notable achievements of the Devil Brigade was the daring raid on Monte la Difensa in December 1943. This crucial assault provided a breakthrough in the Allied advance and resulted in a significant setback for the Axis forces. The Devil Brigade's ability to overcome difficult terrain, harsh weather conditions, and heavily fortified enemy positions demonstrated their unmatched skills and unwavering determination.

The Liberation of Rome and Beyond

Following their success in Italy, the Devil Brigade was reassigned for the invasion of southern France. They played a key role in the liberation of Rome, gaining recognition for their bravery and tenacity. Their efforts were vital in disrupting German defenses and paving the way for the Allied forces. The Devil Brigade operated behind enemy lines, gathering intelligence, sabotaging infrastructure, and conducting daring reconnaissance missions.

Legacy and Honors

The First Special Service Force proved to be an extraordinary military unit with a remarkable legacy. Their fearless and highly effective methods of unconventional warfare set them apart from traditional forces of the time. The Devil Brigade was disbanded in 1944, but their legacy lives on in various military organizations and special forces units worldwide. The sacrifices and accomplishments of these brave soldiers have been recognized through numerous honors and awards, including decorations received from both the United States and Canada.

The Devil Brigade Today

The legacy of the Devil Brigade continues to inspire individuals to this day. Their contributions to military strategy and their unwavering commitment serve as a testament to the power of unity, tenacity, and specialized training. The First Special Service Force left an indelible mark on the history of warfare and continues to be remembered as an elite force that changed the course of World War II.

Here

Click here to uncover the untold secrets of the feared Devil Brigade – the extraordinary joint Canadian and American force that defied the odds and redefined modern warfare!

Of Courage and Determination: The First Special Service Force, "The Devil's Brigade," 1942-44

by Bernd Horn(Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11028 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	409 pages

FREE

An Allied unit comprised of Canadian and American troops, the First Special Service Force or "Devil’s Brigade" struck fear into the very heart of the Axis.

In the dark, early days of the Second World War, the Allies found themselves with their backs against the wall. With their armies, tactics, doctrine, and equipment in tatters, the Allies turned to special operations forces to carry the fight to the Axis enemy until their conventional forces could be built up once again. Specially selected and trained, these forces struck fear into the hearts of the enemy. One such unit, the First Special Service Force (FSSF) or Devil’s Brigade, was created for a hazardous mission in Norway. This unique formation was composed of both Americans and Canadians who served side by side without distinction of nationality.

A killer elite, the FSSF consistently demonstrated courage and determination and earned itself an unrivaled combat record at Monte la Difensa and Anzio in Italy and in the invasion of southern France.