The Royal Marines were originally formed under the auspices of the Royal
Navy to guard its sailing ships from harm. They are proud of their
history and origins but the Navy heritage is fading. John Parker charts
how the units have moved away from their nautical beginnings to develop,
over time, into the most versatile force in the British military,
containing one of their most elite brigades.
The Royal Marines Commandos have, over the past few years, developed
into the premier fighting organisation on land, sea and air. This
history deals with events associated with the Royal Marines and
subsequently in their commando role, starring in all major conflicts
including Italy, Malaysia, the Borneo confrontation with Indonesia, and
more recently Afghanistan.