Why was Hereford picked as the headquarters of the SAS?

Selection of Hereford for SAS Headquarters

1. Strategic Location:

• Geographical Advantage:

  • Hereford was chosen for its strategic location, offering proximity to key military training areas and facilities.

• Accessibility:

  • The city's accessibility facilitated quick mobilization and deployment of SAS forces for training and operations.

2. Topography and Climate:

• Diverse Terrain:

  • Hereford's diverse topography, including rural areas and challenging terrains, provided ideal conditions for SAS training exercises.

• Climatic Variability:

  • Varied weather conditions allowed SAS units to train in different environments, preparing them for diverse operational scenarios.

3. Secrecy and Security:

• Isolation:

  • Hereford's relative isolation contributed to maintaining the secrecy of SAS operations and training activities.

• Security Measures:

  • The city's infrastructure and SAS headquarters were designed with security in mind, ensuring confidentiality and operational security.

4. Collaborative Partnerships:

• Military Collaboration:

  • Hereford's location fostered collaboration with other military units and facilities, enhancing the SAS's joint training capabilities.

• Strategic Alliances:

  • Proximity to military partners and allies allowed for effective coordination and joint exercises, reinforcing the SAS's capabilities.

5. Training Facilities:

• Specialized Training Areas:

  • Hereford provided suitable grounds and facilities for specialized SAS training, including counter-terrorism, hostage rescue, and unconventional warfare.

• Optimal Resources:

  • The city offered the necessary infrastructure and resources for creating realistic training scenarios, crucial for SAS preparedness.

6. Historical Significance:

• Military Tradition:

  • Hereford has a historical association with the military, aligning with the SAS's ethos and contributing to its sense of tradition.

• Heritage Connection:

  • The city's military heritage made it a fitting choice, aligning with the values and traditions of the SAS.

7. Confidentiality and Low Profile:

• Low-Profile Operations:

  • Hereford's location allowed the SAS to maintain a low profile, crucial for conducting covert and sensitive operations.

• Confidentiality Assurance:

  • The city's environment supported the SAS's need for confidentiality, safeguarding its operational strategies and tactics.

8. Supportive Community:

• Local Support:

  • Hereford's community was supportive of the SAS presence, fostering positive relations and contributing to the overall success of the SAS mission.

• Collaborative Environment:

  • The supportive local environment encouraged collaboration between the SAS and the community, creating a mutually beneficial relationship.

Choosing Hereford as the SAS headquarters was a comprehensive decision, considering strategic, operational, and logistical factors that contributed to the success and effectiveness of the SAS in fulfilling its mission.