A commando is a combatant or operative of an elite light infantry or special operations force, specially trained for carrying out raids and operating in small teams behind enemy lines. Commandos are distinctive in that they specialize in unconventional assault on high-value targets, and they are trained to employ guerrilla-like shock tactics ranging from hand-to-hand combat to hit-and-run raids. The term "commando" can refer to both an individual and a military unit. In general usage, the term also refers to irregular or guerrilla tactics carried out by small regular units.
The origin of the term "commando" is from the Dutch word "kommando," which translates as "a command or order" and also roughly to "mobile infantry regiment". During the Second World War, Britain created a range of special units who undertook a variety of daring operations against the Axis Powers, and these units were known as commandos.
In summary, a commando is a highly trained combatant or operative who specializes in unconventional assault on high-value targets and operates in small teams behind enemy lines.
