The first Commando was . . .

The Commando knife post reminded Frank Hopkinson:

. . . from the store of useless information with which my brain is crammed in areas which I cannot access readily DID YOU REALISE------the first Commando was a "Gunner"!!!!! 

Following Dunkirk in 1940,, Durnford-Slater, (later Brigadier Durnford-Slater DSO and Bar) was the Adjutant of 23rd Medium and Heavy Training Regiment RA in Plymouth when volunteers were called for to raid the enemy coast.

After his CO's successful recommendation (written by the Adjutant) he was appointed to "Raise and Command Number 3 Commando in the Rank of Lieut. Colonel".

At this time, Numbers 1 and 2 Commandos did not yet exist so Durnford-Slater was the first Commando.

Demonstrating once again, of course, that where Gunners lead all the rest follow along.