Company of Heroes: Modern Combat Units

The term 'commando' has a rich history that spans across several continents and languages. During World War II, both British and German forces adopted this term to describe their special operations troops. In South Africa, similar units operated in small detachments, often on horseback, launching rapid attacks against British forces.

The word 'kommando' originated from interactions with the Portuguese in nearby African colonies, where it translates to 'command'. The Portuguese term 'Comando' referred to a group of troops under autonomous command, tasked with performing special missions during battles or sieges. This concept was borrowed from India, where units of Boer mounted infantry fought during the Xhosa Wars and the First and Second Boer Wars.

From an early modern perspective, the word 'kommando' comes from the Dutch term, which translates to both 'a command or order' and roughly to 'mobile infantry regiment'. The etymology of the term takes us back even further, to Latin, where commendare means 'to recommend'. This connection highlights the evolution of language and military tactics over time.

In conclusion, the concept of a commando unit has its roots in various languages and cultures, reflecting the complex history of warfare and special operations. From the Boer Wars to modern-day special forces, the term 'commando' continues to evoke a sense of elite troops operating behind enemy lines, striking swift and decisive blows.

Company of heroes: modern combat units