Who was responsible for the establishment of the 1st Ranger Battalion?

The establishment of the 1st Ranger Battalion is credited to Major William O. Darby. He played a pivotal role during World War II in forming this elite unit, which was modeled after the earlier Rangers, including those led by Colonel Robert Rogers during the French and Indian War. Major Darby's leadership was instrumental in developing the modern concept of Ranger operations, emphasizing mobility, surprise, and a unique approach to unconventional warfare. His contributions set the foundation for the battalion's reputation and effectiveness in various military engagements.

Darby's efforts in assembling soldiers and training them in specialized tactics contributed to the Ranger lineage, marking him as a key figure in the history of U.S. Army Rangers. This focus on rapid deployment and direct action missions was essential for the unit's success in the North African and Italian campaigns during the war.