Submitting. That night the unit – which specialised in cross-Channel raids, snatching prisoners for interrogation and recceing enemy installations – infiltrated the tiny island off the coast of Normandy, arriving by specially-silenced motor torpedo boat. Renowned for their daring and fearlessness, they killed a guard and captured five Germans, binding their hands. But the prisoners resisted and raised the alarm. The order was given to shoot any who tried to flee. Three ended up dead and only one was taken back alive for questioning. A couple of weeks later an incensed Hitler, who believed shackled prisoners had been shot after surrendering, issued his Commando Order, a death sentence for any operative taken captive during a Commando raid.
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