He told the inquiry that in the eyes of the Special Forces' commanding officer in Afghanistan, the SAS could do no wrong, and described the lack of accountability for the regiment as "astonishing".

Commander Aaron Williams, HMS Triumph's commanding officer, said the Royal Navy would reflect on the legacy of HMS Triumph "with immense pride".

Two weeks later, the Curtiss’ commanding officer listed 20 dead, 54 injured and one missing.

To hear soldiers complain - about their commanding officers, orders and lack of equipment - is hardly unusual.

Timothy Warburton, commanding officer of the squadron, said in a statement.