The primary role of the platoon was battlefield preparation, identification and marking of airborne insertion points (Parachute Drop ZoneвЂ™s and Landing ZoneвЂ™s) and carry out reconnaissance tasks on pre-designated targets prior to the delivery of the main body.В In 1999, 5 Airborne Brigade merged with 24 Air Mobile Brigade to form 16 Air Assault Brigade with the Platoon remaining attached to the Brigade Headquarters (HQ). The brigade was formed from the Parachute Regiment, and associated airborne support assets.В The Brigade Commander identified a requirement for an independent intelligence collection capability, deployable into a hostile or non-permissive environment ahead of the main force. During World War II, the company saw their fair share of action including Sicily and Italy.ДЇollowing the 1982 Falklands War (Operation Corporate) 5 Airborne Brigade was established as a light, rapid reaction force for similar requirements. The operational role of the Pathfinders was to arrive at the drop zones half an hour in advance of the main body of airborne troops in order to set up beacons to pin point the dropping area for the advancing aircraft, to clear any obstacles from the zone that would impede the gliders, and also to lightly secure the immediate area from enemy interference. The concept of pathfinding had been pioneered by Major John Lander who set about raising a company of handpicked volunteers drawn from the Parachute Regiment. In 1942, the 21 st Independent Parachute Company was formed with the task of вЂpathfindingвЂ™ around war torn Europe and was a unique concept at this point in time. The pathfinder teams of the day were made up of a group of eight to twelve pathfinders and a group of six bodyguards whose job was to defend the pathfinders while they set up their equipment. 1.1 BackgroundДuring World War II, the Pathfinders were a group of volunteers selected within the airborne units who were specially trained to operate navigation aids to guide the main airborne body to the drop zones. Indeed, a stint in the pathfinders is often a good grounding for those wishing to serve in theВ UKSF. Pathfinders act as the Brigade commanderвЂ™s eyes and ears typically operating ahead of the BrigadeвЂ™s front line, often deep behind enemy lines, where they perform advance force reconnaissance operations and mark out drop zones (DZ) and helicopter landing sites (HLS) for use by Brigade forces.ДЄlthough not technically a Special Forces unit, the levels of discipline and skills required of Pathfinders are close to, if not entirely comparable to, the United KingdomвЂ™s Special Forces (UKSF). In combat, they fight with their sharp, needle-like teeth and long, curved claws, which they otherwise use for digging.The Pathfinder Platoon is a reconnaissance unit within the British ArmyвЂ™sВ 16 Air Assault Brigade. Once engaged with an opponent, they typically fight until slain. While generally friendly, if threatened or otherwise provoked, badgers can become fierce combatants. These markings are distinct and vary by species. The badger possesses a fierceness and natural tenacity, while its stubby legs and wide, seemingly portly stature belie the creatureвЂ™s actual strength and speed.ДЄ typical badger has dark brownish-gray fur highlighted with white markings, such as bands or striped masks about the eyes. Most species are carnivorous, though some eat a variety of meat, insects, and vegetables. The squat, burrowing badger is plentiful in most temperate forests.

Organization solitary, pair, or clan (3вЂ“6) Skills Escape Artist +5, Perception +5 Racial Modifiers +4 Escape Artist Init +1 Senses low-light vision, scent Perception +5ДЄC 13, touch 12, flat-footed 12 (+1 Dex, +1 natural, +1 size)

Path finder badge