French Foreign Legion

The French Foreign Legion was established in 1831. Foreigners were forbidden to enlist in the French Army after the July Revolution in 1830.

The Legion protected the French colonial empire during the 19th century. The Legion has fought in all wars involving France since it's creation in 1831.

Insignia of the French Foreign Legion shown here is
the modern insignia of the French Foreign Legion - the flaming grenade.

You can join the Legion if you are single or married, any nationality, and with or without prior military service. You must be reasonably physically fit, healthy, and not have a criminal record that includes major felonies such as armed robbery, murder, and other extreme crimes. You do not have to speak French although it is highly recommended. If you do not speak the language it will be taught to you.

The only permanent demi brigade in the French army.
(demi brigade equals half brigade or regiment)
History: Established in February of 1940 at Sidi Bel Abbes in Algeria, with its cadre drawn from the 1e REI (1st Foreign Infantry Regiment). The 13 DBLE fought during World War II for the Free French Forces. The unit suffered heavy losses at the Battle of Dien Bien Phu in Vietnam.

Article 1
Legionnaire, you are a volunteer, serving France with honour and fidelity.
Article 2
Each legionnaire is your brother in arms whatever his nationality, his race or his religion might be. You show to him the same close solidarity that links the members the same family.
Article 3
You respect your traditions and your superiors. Discipline and friendship are your strengths. Courage and honesty are your virtues.
Article 4
You are proud of being a legionnaire. You are always well mannered and smart. Your behaviour is of the best. You are always modest and your quarters are always clean and tidy.
Article 5
You are an elite soldier who is rigorous with himself. You consider your weapon as your most precious possession. You constantly maintain your physical fitness.
Article 6
Your mission is sacred. It is carried out until the end, in respect of the law, the customs of war International Conventions, if needs be, at the risk of your own life.
Article 7
In combat you act without passion or hatred. You respect vanquished enemies. You never surrender your dead, your wounded, or your weapons.

Legio Patria Nostra - The Legion is our Homeland
Honneur et Fidélité - Honour and Fidelity
Marche ou crève - March or die

You aren't a Legionaire until you fill your boots with your own blood.