Royal Marines from Norway to the New Hebrides

The Royal Marines combined a NATO northern-flank mission with short-notice responsibilities far beyond the alliance area. Mountain and Arctic warfare training in Norway, supported by pre-positioned vehicles and cooperation with Dutch Marines, prepared them to reinforce a vulnerable flank. A detachment also helped monitor the Rhodesian ceasefire as Zimbabwe moved toward independence. Soon afterward, 42 Commando flew about 10,000 miles to the New Hebrides with vehicles, communications equipment, and supplies in a rapid tri-service airlift. Northern Ireland duties and contingency response around offshore energy installations show why recruiting success and flexible command arrangements mattered to more than amphibious assault.