Brian Franks, who served as David Stirling's second-in-command during World War II, is highlighted in a new book for his role in the post-war continuation of the Special Air Service (SAS). Author Tim Spicer's 'An Axe and Four Balloons' details Franks's efforts to ensure the survival of unconventional warfare units.
After the war, Franks, a former hotelier and Old Etonian, reportedly used his connections to advocate for the formation of a territorial army unit. In 1947, the Ministry of Defence allowed the creation of 21 SAS (The Artists Rifles), which was subsequently joined by many veterans of the 1939-45 conflict. Franks became its first commanding officer.
This unit, initially known as the Malayan Scouts, later evolved into 22 SAS, the regular army formation of the Special Air Service known today. Franks also pursued and prosecuted Germans responsible for war crimes against his men and French villagers during Operation Layton in 1944.