You do not need to change sides in order to group up.
If the six guys are part of the same squad, then simply give the squad a name. In the init line of the lead unit, put Alpha = group this; and replace Alpha with whatever name you want to give the group. It does not matter if the leader dies or not, his group will retain the name.
So, when you want the general to join up with the recon guys, use this line:
[General] join Alpha;
Of course, replace General with the name you gave the general, and Alpha with whatever you named the group.
I am not sure, but you may have some trouble if the general's rank is too high. To be on the safe side, I would make the general a private.