Unconventional warfare: The untold origins of the SAS

Tom Petch is a Writer and Film Director. Tom served for eight years in the British Army, as a tank commander, adjutant, aide de camp and Troop Commander of 22 SAS. His military experience gives him a unique perspective on recently declassified archives, operation reports, accounts and interviews of the original SAS and their commanders. He is now an award-winning film director and producer whose debut film, The Patrol, won the Raindance Film Festival. He is also the great-great-grandson of Samuel Shepheard, who founded Shepheard’s Hotel in Cairo where the SAS was born. Tom supports veteran charities, most recently campaigning for the rights for Fijian veterans to remain in the UK. He has appeared on Sky, BBC and the Today programme. He lives by the sea with his wife, four children and pug. When not working he can be found on his surfboard.

Charlie Stuart is a distinguished British diplomat with a rich background in military service, diplomacy, and security strategy. Currently the European Union’s Chief Security Advisor on Africa, Charlie plays a crucial role in shaping security policies across the continent. Before entering diplomacy, Charlie served with distinction in the British Army. His transition into diplomatic service saw him hold senior roles, including Head of Delegation for the EU in Tanzania and Deputy Chief of Mission in both Tanzania and Iraq. In addition to his public service, Charlie brings valuable experience from the private sector, where he served as a director of a global security firm based in the UK. He also has a background in corporate law, specializing in major projects and oil exploration.