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Did Germans join the French Foreign Legion after ww2?
Germany saw its opportunity in the large number of Legion noncommissioned officers who were German by birth. Somewhere around 80 percent of French Foreign Legion NCOs were German, so this was no idle threat. The Legion quickly caught on to the Nazis’ plan and began screening German recruits carefully.
Can Americans join the French Foreign Legion?
If we were discussing this 100 years ago, the answer would be straightforward: yes. Anybody looking to escape their past, whether due to major or minor criminality, could sign themselves up to the Legion and disappear into its ranks.
Where did the French Foreign Legion fight?
Colonial warfare. During the Third Republic, the Legion played a major role in French colonial expansion. They fought in North Africa (where they established their headquarters at Sidi-Bel-Abbès in Algeria), Madagascar, and Indochina, where they participated in the celebrated Siege of Tuyên Quang in 1885.
Did the French Foreign Legion fight in Vietnam?
Some 6,000 reliable French troops (many African troops or Vietnamese auxiliaries preferred desertion to fighting) against more than 55,000 Viet Minh soldiers. One of the Legion units had to fight until May 8.
What countries have a Foreign Legion?
The French Foreign Legion (FFL) is often used as a first resort and throughout its existence, has seen extensive action in Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East and even Mexico. It also played roles in the two world wars, in the latter of which, it was involved in the Norwegian campaign .
Why does the French Foreign Legion still exist?
The French Foreign Legion was primarily used to help protect and expand the French colonial empire during the 19th century. The Foreign Legion was initially stationed only in Algeria, where it took part in the pacification and development of the colony.
What is the history of the French Foreign Legion?
The French Foreign Legion is a part of the French Army. This was formed in 1831 to include foreigners to fight for French causes but it has always been commanded by French officers only. When it was first formed, it comprised of seven battalions organized into groups by nationality but that format was soon banished.
What did the French Foreign Legion do in WW2?
Second World War Influx of recruits. The Foreign Legion was heavily involved in World War II, playing a large role in the Middle East and the North African campaign. Battle of France. The Narvik Expedition. The North African Campaign.