Operation Hawthorn was the codename for a series of British Commando raids on Sardinia during the Second World War.
The raids between June and July 1943 were carried out by L Detachment Special Boat Squadron.
The raiders were landed either by parachute or submarine and most of those who landed were killed or captured and the detachment had to be reconstituted.
[1] The operation was led by Captain John Verney who commanded the L Detachment of the Special Boat Squad.
[2] The operation was planned to span 3 days (from June 30 till July 2) yet was called off after the first day of battle.