Join us on an enthralling journey into the annals of history as we delve into the extraordinary exploits of the Special Air Service (SAS) during World War Two. In this captivating episode of Explaining History, host [Podcast Host's Name] sits down with acclaimed author and historian, Damien Lewis, to explore the gripping tales of war, trauma, and the birth of modern special forces. Drawing on extensive research and first hand accounts, Damien Lewis takes us back to the harrowing days of the Second World War when the world hung in the balance. From the sands of North Africa to the treacherous battlefields of Europe, the SAS emerged as an elite force, spearheading daring operations and transforming the nature of warfare forever. In this thought-provoking conversation, Damien Lewis uncovers the human stories behind the legendary unit, revealing the true impact of war on the individuals who served. Through tales of courage, resilience, and sacrifice, we gain insight into the profound effects of combat on the minds and souls of those who confronted unimaginable horrors. Examining the origins of the SAS, Damien Lewis takes us back to the pivotal moments when visionary commanders like David Stirling conceived the audacious concept of small and highly trained units capable of striking deep behind enemy lines with lightning speed and precision. We delve into the challenges faced by these early special forces pioneers as they sought to establish an unconventional approach to warfare, pushing the boundaries of traditional military tactics. Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/explaininghistory. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.