Hi Puzzlers
Have a problem with
36a staunch colleague = TROUPER - can also be spelt TROOPER
former meaning - actor, entertainer, player. OR as TROUPE - band, company, ensemble, group, party, team.
the later meaning - cavalryman, horse-soldier, troopship OR as TROOP - band, battalion, brigade, cavalry, company etc.
I think TROUPER may be correct!
Love to have your input!
smithy