ÁS Á FORMER FRENCH MILITARY I KNOW Á LOT OF LÉGIONNAIRES WANTS Á NEW LIFE,SOME ÁRE THERE FOR THE PRIDE,SOME TO GET THE FRENCH NATIONALITY AND BETTER MONEY THAN IN THEIR ORIGINAL COUNTRY,SOME FOR THE ACTION,BROTHERWOOD ETC SOME BECAUSE THEY MADE MISTAKES IN THEIR COUNTRY IT IS VERY DIFFERENT
you should do a video on Leo Major, hes a canadian soldier who served in WW2 and korea, he legitimately makes Rambo seems like a credible war movie he captured a company size force by himself, a few months later, liberated a belgian town by himself, and during the Korean war, held off a chinese battalion with 2 squads for some amount of time i fancy myself an history buff, when i first heard of him, i tough it was a tall tale, turns out its all true... i was floored haha im sure it would make a great video !
Dude how TF did you post this comment 3 months ago but the video went up 11 hours ago? Did they also train you in wizardry in the Marines? Ohh note to self = Wizard marine movie staring John Bernthal! mke it happen.
As a french cop I had a few calls involving Légionnaires, all of them were epic. Usually some wannabe gangsters assaulting or trying to rob someone before getting their arses beat by a Legion witness. One time three of them decided to assault and threaten a Légionnaire's wife and children, let's just say a lot of teeth were lost that day. None of them belonged to the Légionnaire who was doing a 1v3 😂
I moved to France from England. Straightaway an ex Legion guy made friends with me as soon as he knew I had been in the British Army. Great guy. Last I saw him he'd set off to travel the worlds waterways by canoe ! Also had an epic night at the Porcaro "Notre Dame des Motards" bike rally in Brittany. A bunch of ex Legionaires came in the bar, one riding his bike, they then gathered around my friend and I, insisted we joined them. Then the craziest one stripped off and danced naked before the band. The woman running the bar insisted he tie a towel around his waist, which he did. But then he jumped on the bar and had to squat as the ceiling was low and his wedding tackle was dangling in everyone's face. What struck me was that families were in there with kids and no one batted an eyelid...no screaming women, angry dads, calls for the police.... just laughter. Typical French laid back attitude.
People often act as if the French were cowards and surrendered easily during World War two . They fought like lions and this is so often overlooked. They fought the nazis whilst occupied until the war was entirely over. The reputation for cowardice is emphatically incorrect and is a stain on anyone who perpetuates it . As an American I am grateful to the French people for the honor and strength they they have exhibited in their history and for being our oldest and most beloved allies. We would not be a country if France wouldn't have helped us . A people truly worthy of the respect of all nations and, on a personal level , a nation who has my undying respect and admiration .
My Grandfather was a legionnaire from 1950 - 1962. After WWII Germany was decimated and there was no work. He always spoke highly about his time that he served and when he passed on 25/12/20 one day before his 90th birthday after 9 years battling cancer it was a solemn Christmas I must admit. During his funeral the French national Anthem was played followed by the Foreign Legion - Le Boudin. He loved France and the Legion
@@NeCroHaVok61 not every german was a nazi even in the ss. It was possible to be an ss asshole because of your body, if you had no disadvantages etc. And here at germany were no work for most ppl after ww2. and the soldiers were treated like dogs. many of them moved by feet to france to join up the foreign legion, because they can work again and they knew that kind of work. My grandpa had luck he came 54 out of prison after Stalingrad and became a golf teacher on the rich district of Hamburg. I know only stories about him but my grandpa hated the nazis. but had no choice in that time, join the Wehrmacht or you and your family will die.
maybe there was a reason why he had no work and joined the legion! Most people worked hard to get germany and austria great again and there was a lot of work 1950er 60er called the "Wirtschaftswunder" german economic miracle
I knew a small kid at school, got bullied a lot. I was ok with him, helped him out a bit. Fast forward 20 years and he rocks up to me in a bar. He’s massive, imposing, big head, skin like leather. Been in the foreign legion, did the whole 10 years. He said he was bored and needed to toughen up. Nice guy, pleased I was cool with him.
I am a former legionary from 1993 to 2008 I have been only 15 years, respect the legion, respect the code of honor. thank you for your interest and video.
Seulement 15 ans ????????? En plus d être un dure, t es aussi un marrant.....😂 moi je serais fière de réussir rien que les tests d entrée....et j en suis loin..😂 RESPECT ET BRAVO À TOI......
The French catch a lot of shit for being white flag waving cowards but I’ve worked with them many times and I’ve never seen that to be the case. They are fierce fighters, have an excellent logistical system not relying on the US to carry their load for them, and the Legionnaires are some of the most brutal and fearless men who go through some of the most difficult training of any militaries out there.
The 'cowards' bit is the result of Allied propaganda to help Allied soldiers feel a bit better about fighting the German army, about which they were understandably nervous. It has never been true. The French have always been great soldiers and probably always will be (Vercingetorix, Napoleon, Petain, de Gaulle, etc.). They've consistently won more than they've lost. In the invasion of France, the Germans took massive risks, used tactics never before seen on the field of battle and, importantly, lost nearly a third of their force anyway. They also spanked the British Expeditionary Force, and anyone who thinks the Brits can't fight is just totally ignorant. France's loss surprised everyone, even Churchill. The German victory says more about the excellence of their troops and commanders than French lack of courage or expertise.
@@unclescipio3136 the "coward" part comes from the politicians not allowing their fighters to handle business. The cowards are ALWAYS the politicians. I'm military and talk shit to other servers, but it's different for us. In my experience, all soldiers have a respect for each other not matter what branch or nation. Generally speaking of course.
Look at the casualties France suffered in a matter of weeks: 90,000 killed, 200,000 wounded. Almost twice that of 10 years of the Vietnam war for the USA. They fought, hard.
@@kurtbjorn3841 and one thing that’s difficult for me to even fathom is the warfare styles of the past. There were a lot of technologies still in their infancy, enemy fighters were mostly uniformed, it was a peer to peer conflict, and for the most part the majority of countries were still just throwing more and more troops at the problem because there really wasn’t any other way of doing business. After the US dropped the atomic weapons on Japan warfare for the US and it’s allies started shifting mostly to fighting against guerrilla warfare tactics against mostly un-uniformed enemies who are generally well dug in on their home turf. That offers its own set of issues but wars nowadays seem to drag on longer and rack up casualties at a slower pace.
The culture of the Legion is expressed in the motto "Legio Patria Nostra" - The Legion is My Country. There is no "multi culturalism" in the Legion, everyone is the same culture - the Legion culture, nothing else matters.
Unless half of you decides to collaborate with the occupying nazi's and the other decides to resist. That's how they can betray you. It's happened before look it up.
@@Mr.InbetweenFX The Legion was very new back then. Today the French Army has counter-intelligence that likely keeps close tabs on individuals who may present a security risk. In the U.S. Army we have plenty of soldiers who are originally from "hostile" countries. I was born in Iran for example. But my loyalty has always been to America and I proudly served in the U.S. Army for 8 years. I actually at one time almost went to join the Legion not because I didn't like America, but because I wanted to challenge myself and get the cultural experience. I still wish I had done so when I was still young. But the U.S. Army was a hell of an adventure as well so it's not a huge regret. That being said, I've always had huge respect for the French Foreign Legion. They are proper soldiers thru and thru.
I have a huge respect for the French Foreign Legion because they really treat everyone as equal. They just want loyalty to the French Republic, courage and brotherhood. Many other military forces could learn from the FFL.
@@reckyourself6948 France is what it is. Thrue history we learn. Military are formed, trained, to protect the country and the people, not the politics. They obey to a certain chain of command, but, actually army can rule the country if necessary.
legio patria nosttra not La France patria nostra; look up what happened to the 1st of the legion. staging a coup in the interest of the country and as punishment losing their officers to be put under french officers and losing a part of the legion
I was in Sarajevo in 92 and as a Canadian we found a few legionnaires who once were Canadians. They are a solid organization and go to every crappy corner of the globe without massive support at times. May they have success in there future battles
I was taught martial arts by a former SAS, FFL & mercenary. I will never forget that guy. When I knew him, he was working a technology gig at the University of Waterloo. You would never have looked at him twice. But all you had to see was how he moved & looked around. He wouldn't tell stories unless we got him really drunk. The best stories were about FFL.
8:40 Bruce Lee: "I do not fear the man who has practiced 10,000 moves, but I fear the man who has practiced 1 move, 10 000 times." Fits pretty well I think. Also good point of view, Jameson. I enjoyed watching this.
I am compelled to mention the astonishing quality of the officers under which I served in the Legion.Better by far than ANY I encountered in the British Army,where I served for 17 years.
at 42, I wish I could join the FFL.. Retired military already, I probably need to chill out and enjoy life. It's hard to stomach a lot of the nonsense I see in my country though...
I had the luck to meet some of the 1e RE when i was doing my VSL (2 years military service in France) - These guys were incredible pro, amazing human beings, always generous and kind with us, and the officers i met were just awesome leaders. Had a great time with these folks, and taught me a few important things on life.
I was stunned a few years ago at an older Chinese co-worker who spoke perfect-sounding French to a visiting MD. Turns out he was in the legion, which stunned me even more.
I was there in mid 1980s. I signed with an American airborne chap. Were still in touch today. It says a lot about the bond formed their in the Legion. Brothers always.
Only if you are completely out of alternatives. I was in the same predicament in the early 80's, I was always doing bum jobs. I joined the Australian Army Reserve (best thing a young fella can do, trust me) . Trained Assault Pioneer and made selection for One Commando Company, Georges Heights Depot. This is WAY back before the Commandos became a second tier to the SAS . I probably would not have made that cut...
My Lieutenant was a former legionaire, and he was a MP. He was scary as hell in the beginning. But in the end, such a humble dude. "Löjtnant Gurka!!" 🙌
I belong to the french gendarmerie nationale and i work with légionnaires. They are great. I like there honnestly. Really, i’m proud to work with them regularly since more than twenty years.
Brings me back to my Legion years, decades ago. It was and still is about fundamental fighting skills: not high tech, but how to fight, maneuver for the killshot, overwhelm your opponent with ferocity and overriding pain. Good years, no regrets
@@TheSeamus802 He did, but he left the legion after 3 years beacuse of a injury. And yes you can join whatever country you were citizen from birth to join the army there after the legion. Only need to change citizenship back and get a security clearing.
@Forever Hermosa It is not about what he taught us, it was his physics regime. 5 in the morning 1 hour sports orientation in forest. 10 in the evening 1 hour running in dense forest. 1 hour water training in a lake with both all gear on and withouth. 1 hour calisthenics workout inside and 1 hour outside workout with some obstacle courses. Everyday we were in our base. When he thought we were fit enough we had to do some of these exercises with the gasmask on at first, then it went on with both gasmasks and the rubbergear. By the end he dumped us in swamps with full gear from helicopter, he gave us 30-40 year old map to orient back home, we were 119 miles away from the base and took us 6 days to get home, we also had to do some missions. We thought we took the shortest path so forget any roads, everything was either swamp or forest. When we were maybe an hour from reaching base, he and some other soldiers attacked us and put weavesacks on our heads and dumped us in waterfilled ditches. For 24 hours they did different interrogation methods. When we were done he gave us one small fish and one potato, all raw ofc, our first food in 6 days. I think you understand our physics now. Thank you for your question.
@Forever Hermosa I think it is similar to what you in America call pathfinders, but beacuse we dont have the military might of America we have to specialize more broadly than the American soldiers. We are pathfinders, but also specialized snipers (me), jtac, recon,sabotage,urban warfare and all weather. I think it sums it up.
@@alexcantlow740 You need to want it. It's more of a mental game then a physical game, at least that is what I hear from veterans. Also wise to read a book from someone who served so you know what you are walking into.
The fact that it’s mandatory for you to learn French speaks to the basic esprit de corpse of the legion. Everyone enters the Legion knowing they have a handicap of language. You learn the same as everyone else learns, which allows you to develop a unique bond with other men who are in the same boat. It’s unlike any other organization in the world. To be able to proudly wear the cappi blanc.
Soldier's loyalties have often been more to their units and to their comrades than to their country. Mercenary units through the ages have fought very well because of this. In Southern Africa, for instance, both Rhodesia and South Africa had black or mixed units and despite institutional and systemic racism, these men fought well and loyally for their comrades and their officers. That is why unit history with flags, battle honours, legends, etc. are so important. This is what the men fight for.
Rhodesia was a extremely successful Nation and cultivated the land they lived on much better, and in much shorter time than any other African Nation at that time. Rhodesia could've been a very special Nation, and it is very unfortunate it is no longer here.
I once was in a situation where i had to be around a group of guys for 5 weeks, one of them was an old man, i was 19 and he was pushing 60, we made meals together and spoke a lot every day, very cool and humble man, i saw him as my short time mentor, one of the last days one of the other guys told med he was a Legionaire veteran with many many years of service.... never seen that one comming, until 25 years later when i understood hes calm nature and mindset... wonder if he is still alive
With the things he probably saw, he no doubt has decided not to worry about day to day life. Don't worry about things, especially what you can't control, is the best life advice there is!
(French guy here, not military) When I was 22-23 years old I was rock climbing in Corsica with 25kg rucksack with other sports friends (I was still "not too shabby" before a crash that broke my body) and we were overtaken on the mountain trails approaching a place called "Lake Nino" by a pair of légionaires in training...they were just running up the mountain with rucksacks twice the size of ours ! 30+ years later I am still amazed thinking of the level of physical trainig...
You make a great point about aggressiveness being a key part of their success. The boxing and close quarters training should be done more here. When I went to boot camp it was done but just a few times almost more out of tradition than as a core component. Learning that getting hit won’t kill you is an incredibly important step for a soldier to learn Part 2 plz
I love your vdo. Has an ex military,at 10:25 there was something that struck me. We spent 10 days outside. It rained for like 7 days. Outside the cold (it vas January in the ridge of some small French mountain;Now I know it may seem stupid,,,but the sound of rain drop on that helmet,that tik,,,,tik,,,tik . Is just nerve raking!! Once again ,keep going!
I know a man who is around 80 and when he was 17 during ww2 he walked from Germany to France and joined the French foreign legion. He then went on to create the gcat catamaran sailboat
My platoon leader/instructor had been in the legion. The values he learned in the legion definetly showed in him and the training that se gave. He was funny and a great guy!
Cross trained for a couple hours, (Marine Corp) with the FFL in Africa. I remember their level of discipline was very high. There was no joking and smoking among them but maybe they were under strict orders how to act with us? Also went to the FFL museum in Marseille France and was impressed with their history of not surrendering and fighting to the last man though they still lost the battle. 😯 five year minimum enlistment, at least back then. No females. Small budget I believe?
@@adrien5834 A severe case of heat stroke , if you survive it, renders you much more susceptible to heat stroke in general and much more likely to die from heat strokes.
Many South Africans join the Legion also,as their millitary and police services are not only amshadow of it self as it was before, but a mockery of what is left behind of it.
I think a lot of the youngsters hear the stories us OU Manne tell about the old SADF days so they feel that they are missing out on something and joining the new SANDF is not a realistic option.
My grandfather was with the RE 8th army north Africa. . He was alongside Fijians Ausies etc... and even compared to them.. he said the SA troops were the toughest and best soldiers..
Yes they had good training and endurance,aswell as basic dicipline at base,and the room duty and layout of gear and the Police service was the same. Combine that with knowledge of the bush and ones equipment and rifle handling beyond this world it is a good reason why so many combloc countries combined feared them so much and why the comblocs lost so heavy as they did.
Nee wat die legioen is maar ook nou te kak... gaan liewer na suid afrika se polisie spesiale taak mag. Hulle is nog kwaliteit en meeste van die manne daar is ex 32 battalion, koevoet en verkenning soldate.
My uncle joined the French Foreign Legion when he was 18. I've never seen him in my life. I know he's still alive, as he writes from time to time, but he's like a stranger.
How do different nationalities and cultures, work together? Because their is no pussification of the nation. Any griping or discontent is struck down immediately, like it should be. Would love to see part deux
The multicultural Legion operates well because everyone is forced to speak the same language, share a common culture and identity, and experience the same hardship as everyone else, there is equality of opportunity, not equality of outcome, the reason multiculturalism fails in western countries is because they don't do any of those things.
When discussing the French army, Lafayette and Joan of Arc come to mind. The latter, being just a 19-year-old, led the French army against the British. The war finally concluded in 1453 with France's victory. The French army are no wimps as it is portrayed in the media.
Only ignorant people think the french are a bunch of white flagging cowards. France won way more wars than any other countries in the world. Being half German and half French, I'm very proud of my ancestors.
LEGION PATRIA NOSTRA. Greetings from Croatia 🇭🇷( 🇪🇺) .In FFL I meet some real friends from all over the world ( free bed and food 🙂) & we are all in contact , especially us who are in PMC biz.
@@Cody2nd Most of ex FFL from Europe ,SA & NA go after to work in private sector & most of guys from Africa, Azia are just for the French passport ( but every Legionare has his own reasons I just writing from my experience and my generation in FFL bcz 30-40 y ago men from my country went to FFL to escape communist regime and to be in non communist military ,later those ex Legionare where the best commanders which got us freedom in 90this Croatia war for independence from communist aggression)
@@CroHOOLIGANs There is two sides of a story i remember that aggression was committed by your paramilitaries attacking army bases and killing soldiers before the war officially started , so if the definition of aggression is who attack first then there was no Communist aggression . But why did neo nazis from many countries fight for you ,for HOS ? Maybe because of ww2 when the the country was a nazi puppet state as you we'll know but of course there were communists fighting to that evil. It's just sad that many in the Balkans don't think like the Legion ,it doesent matter where someone is from all are homo sapiens ..humans.
@@aramisone7198 which army bases,in which country..in Croatia(bcz I live in the city which was on fist line & 50m from ex military base so I saw guy's running from that base telling people that they don't wanna shoot on Croats,and we help them to go home safe ) ,bcz army which had red star on their uniforms & that "people's army" after free elections took all Croatia national guard wepons . Yes we had in our ranks lot of people from all over World which come to save 1 little country against that big army + all kinds of paramilitary forces . In the beginning we had only personal wepons and still tanks,heavy artillery, rockets where landing on civilian population from Dubrovnik ,Split,Zadar,Šibenik,Gospić, Karlovac, Sisak, Osijek , Vukovar ( one of the worst war crime in Europe after WW2 ,N1 is Srebrenica work of the same army ),off course you will tell that Croatia is guilty for war crimes against them bcz something that happen in WW2 & that we have help from 100k foren volonters! And we won a war that was ONLY on CROATIA soil bcz NATO help us with airplanes 🤦. perfect example how people can be brain washed if they don't see what a horrible thing war is
Hey great video on the French Foriegn Legion! Please do part two! Love the fact that these guys come from all over the world yet mesh into one highly trained and motivated unit. Really cool to see!
It really is amazing that they take a group of men from all different backgrounds, cultures, beliefs and values and turn them into a group of soldiers. They all seem to get along. That’s really cool
I would guess the Legion is successful in bringing together different cultures is they provide a common goal. Whereas in the USA and other places when people start to get along the powers that be (whoever that is) will inject hate through social/mainstream media to ensure the people at the bottom (me and you) keep fighting each other instead of looking up at the real injustices.
Also everyone has to learn French (completely fluently) before Day 1, which I think shows a lot of dedication and effort to enlist and cooperate. Maybe we should all just learn French, lol
@@DisDatK9 That's not true - you need to have a certain level, and it will prevent you from promotion, but you do NOT have to be 'fluent' to sign up. That's why they make a point in the video to explain that their training is barely any "classroom work" and all done by watch-and-repeat, with the francophones understanding and passing it along to those who cannot understand the instructor.
@@Dune571 interesting. I wonder if Bear Grylls got the cadre to lie or if that was actually changed, you can watch the program when he goes through FFL selection and they fully expected them to understand and speak French. (I’m pretty sure the word fluidly was used as well but I may be wrong.)
@@DisDatK9 french is the only language used In the Legion. The officers give orders in french, everything is written in french, the legionaires communicate and learn the job in french. So it is useful to have basics in the language but it is not compulsory at all. Some recruits don't speak a single word of french when they arrive. They will learn french during courses integrated in their training and with the help of the other legionaires. So they didn't make any exception for Bear Grylls and the officers only talked to him in French.
Love this. Really interested, keen to see Part 2. My Captain in the French army in the mid 1980's was a Legionnaire and he was a tough, fair impressive and inspirational leader and warrior.
Their is a TH-cam channel made by "Major Gerald" is Major, sport officer at Aubagne (already speak vollume)and it's really cool if you speak french , the dude is a monster : ex-box champion, he did did all the major confict since the 80 and he is one of the most fit soldier of the legion (even if he 51), he is really active on the french youtube.
@@jammibruno879 all the legionnaires, even who not speak french at debut, did learn french language, with the help from french speaking comrades, and with instruction.I known 2 legionaires , 1 from the USA and 1 from Russia, who not speak a single word french at debut : after 5 years they did speak french very correctly, both are now french citizens, after a long carrier in the legion...
The motto of the FFL is "The Legion is our homeland." in Latin. When they talk about patriotism it is more like commeraderie towards their fellow legionaires.
You're absolutely right, Legio Patria Nostra, but it's the same in others regular regiments, Ma Patrie c'est mon regiment, is something often heard, we fight for the beret, for the comrads.
The success of the legion, in a nut shell, is well explained at the end when he says that everyone's personal culture and religion is respected but kept private. In the Legion it's the Legion culture, period, and that's what keeps it all together. In other words, it's a secular culture, if I understand it right.
Marc, you're right. France is fiercely secular. No hijabs in the schools, nor can one wear a yamulke. No large, visible crucifixes, either. "Laïcité" is very important here.
I met a few of them in Afghanistan in late 2003 and I was extremely impressed with there physical fitness. I remember running on a treadmill next to one in a cold tent gym and we were at over five thousand feet Elevation. This guy ran on a treadmill at full incline for over an hour. I was us to running over six miles a day at the time and remember being extremely impressed. I stop him on the way out of the tent and that how I learn he was a Legionaire. The next day I ship out to small fire base and never saw him again but I know a killer when I see one and you could see it in his eyes. Sadly Civilized Society is to soft to fight real wars. Having your own force of Mercenaries is in genius!
My father was at a farm for boys in Upstate New York hard labor. He didn't go to high school. When he turned 17 the judge told him you want big boy jail or Vietnam? He joined the Navy. After 31 years he came out as a CWO4 with a college degree, he was a gunner, special weapons too. These men are good men. Some men just need structure.
One thing the legion does is teach every recruit French if you don’t learn it you’ll get treated like a dummy and not get promoted. It’s one way to weed out the rotten apples.
I'm in the British Military , it's pissing me off a little it's getting to nambi pambi, pink and fluffy, don't train if it's to hot or cold. The Legion has to be the only Hard core unit left.
From the moment you have given up your passport and receive a French passport with a French name, your origin ceases while you are in The Foreign Legion. They break one down to build you up as a war machine and your unit is your family. You are not afraid of death, a legon never backs down, never gives up but fights until he either wins or falls. Although legoners can be at a disadvantage, he does not give up but wonders how many can I tamed myself into death. Most people who apply to The Foreign Legion want to see if they are tough enough physically and mentally, many want the tough discipline, many really want to fight and the chance is greatest that you get to do it within The Foreign Legion. Many people do not want a regular job without real excitement or andrenaline. From my city in Northern Sweden called Kiruna, there were a large number of young men who during World War II, who enlisted in The Foreign Legion and participated in fighting during the rest of World War II and continued to be Legons and went to the places they were sent to fight for The Foreign Legion. None of these remain in Life today.
Thanks for an interesting look into the modern French Foreign Legion. It is fascinating to see how they are able to blend so many cultural backgrounds into a singular fighting unit. Keep up the great content! Thanks.
You receive the option for French citizenship afterward which appeals a lot to people from poor places with no opportunities They learn the language and get citizenship with benefits as a veteran
@@cromwellg60 the citizenship or a permit to live and work in France? There re a mis-info on that I ve seen guys telling that after 5 years u dont get citizenship but the permit Other folks like yourself say that u get citizenship. Now Idk
We used to say that when I was serving in the Australian Army and then when we worked alongside the US Marines I heard them use that expression as well. Now I find out our British cousins operated under the same adage! God knows who actually made up the expression but it's the truth though.
As an ex legionnaire, (1994-2000), i am pleased to see that the legion still respects and accepts its recruits from wherever. Training is still very discipline oreinted, albeit with better kit of which i am somewhat jealous. LPN!!
Same reason I went to the oil field. " Test my metal " . I was surprised at how many ex military guys were on the rigs . Some men have an internal voice that tells us to push our selves to the limit and stay out of our comfort zone.
For historical context, the 13e DBLE was one of the primary French combat unit of WW2. It served in Norway and North Africa (Battle of Bir-Hakeim) for the allies. It was also part of the famous battle of Dien Bien Phu in Indochina. Recently it’s been serving in the Sahel (Mali) alongside detachments from many different army regiments. It’s currently a mechanized infantry regiment with VAB’s and VBCI’s.
Sometimes not always. My friend in the UK Scots Guards left to join the legion due to hating ceremonial duties, the funny thing is he did more in the Legion Estranger than he did in the Guards.
I think your spot on mate .............some are joining to test themselves, others to escape from their lives and some are needing a second chance because they think they've wasted too much of their lives !!!!!!
I’m German and came to U.S. and served and earned citizenship the honorable way. My grandfather during WW2 was put on front line for a cause he didn’t believe in and got captured on purpose. Became French foreign Legionär and fought at all the famous battles in Africa. Had heavy ptsd, would clear trenches with his knife, would also run ahead of his platoon to prematurely trigger ambushes. I only ever saw one photo of him in bathtub reading news paper with long beard. As child I thought he looked like a bum, but as I got older I had no idea the kind of man he was. It was incredible to learn honor lies deep in both sides of my family.
As legion has her museum, pensionary, archives etc... They can have informations about him. Minimum they have is services records. A lot of details can be interesting for you in it. Ask them by mail or anything before go to see them. Even without any formal response, you could be surprise irl (don't forget official proof that you are from his family).
Ive been thinking about joining the legionaires or trying out sfas. I am a vet but I myself am drawn to action. I have been in combat in 3 different zones in the main 3 being Iraq, Afghanistan, & Syria. I just like the legions outlook of what a soldier is suppose to be. Fight for a purpose and not because its a job but a way of life.
The weapon becomes an extention of the body. 20 years out, even though I haven got the muscles, I still have the muscle memory of a rifle. It's strange you can feel it when you think of it.
You think you do but you don't. Muscle memory is good and stays but efficency comes from repetition and constant handling. I served in the UK I last fired in 2005. I went on holiday to Vegas and shot several calibres. My "instructor" said I was a phenomenal shot for a "newbie". I thought it was terrible my groupings were tight but not as good as during my time.
I am a U.S. Army Infantry veteran from the 80s. When I ETS out, I thought about joining the Legion. I wished I did. About ten years ago l met a Portuguese fellow who was a Legionnaire who served in Iraq. He spoke very highly of them. He is the only Legionnaire I have ever met. YES, please do more video on them. 🇨🇵 😊
Professionally well done, well-annotated as to the causal and personal motivating effects of young men volunteering and joining the French Foreign Legion for short intermediate and long term personal career goals
also start learning french asap i can reccomend you that it will save you some trouble i guess :). The physique part is a no brainer haha :) have fun wish you manage well
@@ecskinetic I have started to learn some French. I recite the code of honor in French daily. Five mile run every morning and thirty pull ups in the even
@@danieldabella4869 OK nice. Pullups be sure to do them Legion style otherwise you wont pass the entrance door at the gates in aubange. Learn body parts and houshold item names first in french and weapon parts. Try do the pft regular not Just 5 Miles running that wont do! The requirements for the pft can be found online. If you manage the pft with sprinting to each Station No walking Always sprinting !!! Also i can reccomend to secure a nice Mix of music from all countrys cause Most dont think of that IT helps a Lot to make Friends fast during für recrutment and Processing time of your documents. I meet a Guy there WHO was waiting in the recrutment/ processing area for More than 5 month! He was quite happy when i played some Songs from New Zealand. And for the sake of all other recruts try and get a table soccer ball! It is the only social game in there but No balls just the table hehe.
@@ecskinetic Roger that, dead hang bar over the chin. What do you mean by PFT. Are you referring to the "LEC LUGER TEST". Thank you for advice on which French to learn first, I'll admit I was pretty lost on that part.
It may seem an observation from left field, but joining the Legion or going on kibbutz fulfilled much the same role for many a disaffected youth 50 years ago. A sense of purpose, a ready-made family, it being unimportant where you came from.
I really admire the French Legion, they have such a culturally diverse army, it's actually refreshing to see, brothers in arms from other nations, wearing the same uniform, fighting for the same cause and living together, eating together, and training together. This would be the most interesting outfit in the world when there is so much to learn from each other. Sadly, I can't say the same about our troops here. I've seen guys literally being discriminated just for being from the 'wrong part' of town or from the 'wrong' Province or state. Canada is not that much different but the reality is, a divided nation will not stand.
Definitely do part 2. The one phrase that used to piss me off so bad was when a training NCO would say, "Today is a great day to train!" And it's pouring down rain and 40 degrees. Or it's 100 degrees with no clouds. Or there's 8 inches of snow and the frozen ground is as hard as concrete. But, in a few years, earlier than most, I figured out that any jackass can train when it's ideal. Successful militaries train when it sucks. I still hated it, but I got it. Embrace the suck!
Excellent!! If it had not been for the pandemic, it will be a year in the legion, but I still have that dream and that goal very present in me and I know that I will achieve it.
Jamesons Travels thank you and for reading. I just can tell you definitely have some interesting projects just to do or waiting to have a reason to go at it haha. Hope things are going well.
if you look at some of the documentaries about the legion from the 90's you can see why they are some of the most elite soldiers in the world, most people in out of the way countries like Ghana, Cameroon, Benin, Liberia all know about the legion and their history of soldiering in the african continent
When fulfiling my military duties which were mandatory 30 years ago in France for all young men we sometimes had the opportunity to "train" with these guys in south France military camps . being profesional they were at another level in all fighting fields . Great guys ! not the kind to be messed up with AT ALL but great guys with a very special mindset. La légion is their family
As a former airborne infantry staff sergeant with a combat jump and a couple combat deployments over 6 years. I understand the appeal to the Legion and to be a soldier. Similarly, I felt the appeal to “test my medal” by volunteering for SEERS, Ranger and Selection while in; even though I planned on getting out of the Army and didn’t need the schools for promotion. My unit didn’t send me to SEERs and I didn’t end up going to Selection but as a sergeant in my unit, I was pretty much forced to go to Ranger and Jump Master school among a handful of other less intense schools over the years. I’m going down to the recruiter TODAY, with my eldest son where he is signing for an IT job with the US Army. His reasons for joining are different then mine were and that’s fine. Although the training transformed this once D average high school student (me) into a straight A, multiple college graduate, beside two B+s. The thing that sets the US military apart is the benefits. I never joined for college money but damn if the US government didn’t pay over 90,000 for schooling and living expenses during my time in college. Now I have a federal job making great money that I got because I was a veteran and my service time is credited towards retirement, leave, ect. Foreign Legion is a great option for some. If you have a record that the US government, the most powerful and wealthy organization in the world, will not give you a waver for... I barely got in, so I understand. I haven’t always agreed with all our gov policies but having the right mindset has allowed me to make a difference for good
Had a friend in the Belgian Army who spent some time in the Legion. He ended up getting kicked out of the FFL after a big brawl happened between multiple FFL soldiers over some cultural "misunderstandings". He ended up returning to the Belgian army and is still there, a decade later. I think once you're a legionnaire , a fight over cultural differences may be sorted out without getting kicked out. But the brawl he was in happened while they were still going through training to become a legionnaire. That , or he could be lying and just failed the training lol. He has a couple of pics though that proof that he was at least in training.
Missed the 24 hour deadline due to work but wanted to say I loved this video. Many things from their training that should be applied to daily life here in the United States
Learn more about the Legion here - th-cam.com/play/PLeU0ya-0QayRDLVbnmhalbTtTz4_mLpAz.html.
ÁS Á FORMER FRENCH MILITARY I KNOW Á LOT OF LÉGIONNAIRES WANTS Á NEW LIFE,SOME ÁRE THERE FOR THE PRIDE,SOME TO GET THE FRENCH NATIONALITY AND BETTER MONEY THAN IN THEIR ORIGINAL COUNTRY,SOME FOR THE ACTION,BROTHERWOOD ETC SOME BECAUSE THEY MADE MISTAKES IN THEIR COUNTRY IT IS VERY DIFFERENT
you should do a video on Leo Major, hes a canadian soldier who served in WW2 and korea, he legitimately makes Rambo seems like a credible war movie he captured a company size force by himself, a few months later, liberated a belgian town by himself, and during the Korean war, held off a chinese battalion with 2 squads for some amount of time
i fancy myself an history buff, when i first heard of him, i tough it was a tall tale, turns out its all true... i was floored haha
im sure it would make a great video !
Viva la 13!!❤️❤️
Dude how TF did you post this comment 3 months ago but the video went up 11 hours ago?
Did they also train you in wizardry in the Marines?
Ohh note to self = Wizard marine movie staring John Bernthal! mke it happen.
Yes I would like to see a second part to the French Legion. Love the vids.
As a french cop I had a few calls involving Légionnaires, all of them were epic.
Usually some wannabe gangsters assaulting or trying to rob someone before getting their arses beat by a Legion witness.
One time three of them decided to assault and threaten a Légionnaire's wife and children, let's just say a lot of teeth were lost that day. None of them belonged to the Légionnaire who was doing a 1v3 😂
Oof rip those guys
Ton anglais écrit est excellent hugo meilleure que la plupart des québécois hahaha
1 vs 3? Unarmed? So your saying 3 people attempted suicide by soldier? Lol
I moved to France from England. Straightaway an ex Legion guy made friends with me as soon as he knew I had been in the British Army. Great guy. Last I saw him he'd set off to travel the worlds waterways by canoe !
Also had an epic night at the Porcaro "Notre Dame des Motards" bike rally in Brittany. A bunch of ex Legionaires came in the bar, one riding his bike, they then gathered around my friend and I, insisted we joined them. Then the craziest one stripped off and danced naked before the band. The woman running the bar insisted he tie a towel around his waist, which he did. But then he jumped on the bar and had to squat as the ceiling was low and his wedding tackle was dangling in everyone's face.
What struck me was that families were in there with kids and no one batted an eyelid...no screaming women, angry dads, calls for the police.... just laughter. Typical French laid back attitude.
@Don Johnson WHAT is your Military Background?
People often act as if the French were cowards and surrendered easily during World War two . They fought like lions and this is so often overlooked. They fought the nazis whilst occupied until the war was entirely over. The reputation for cowardice is emphatically incorrect and is a stain on anyone who perpetuates it . As an American I am grateful to the French people for the honor and strength they they have exhibited in their history and for being our oldest and most beloved allies. We would not be a country if France wouldn't have helped us . A people truly worthy of the respect of all nations and, on a personal level , a nation who has my undying respect and admiration .
Thank you!
Y’a toujours une grande amitié entre les États Unis et la France
❤
Merci a toi.
France, the ORIGINAL American ally. Vive la France!!!
My Grandfather was a legionnaire from 1950 - 1962. After WWII Germany was decimated and there was no work.
He always spoke highly about his time that he served and when he passed on 25/12/20 one day before his 90th birthday after 9 years battling cancer it was a solemn Christmas I must admit.
During his funeral the French national Anthem was played followed by the Foreign Legion - Le Boudin.
He loved France and the Legion
May him Rest In Peace
Great man, Great service. Rest in peace brother.
Your grandfather probably served with a lot of former SS, which is kinda crazy at the time.
@@NeCroHaVok61 not every german was a nazi even in the ss. It was possible to be an ss asshole because of your body, if you had no disadvantages etc. And here at germany were no work for most ppl after ww2. and the soldiers were treated like dogs. many of them moved by feet to france to join up the foreign legion, because they can work again and they knew that kind of work. My grandpa had luck he came 54 out of prison after Stalingrad and became a golf teacher on the rich district of Hamburg. I know only stories about him but my grandpa hated the nazis. but had no choice in that time, join the Wehrmacht or you and your family will die.
maybe there was a reason why he had no work and joined the legion! Most people worked hard to get germany and austria great again and there was a lot of work 1950er 60er called the "Wirtschaftswunder" german economic miracle
I knew a small kid at school, got bullied a lot. I was ok with him, helped him out a bit.
Fast forward 20 years and he rocks up to me in a bar. He’s massive, imposing, big head, skin like leather. Been in the foreign legion, did the whole 10 years. He said he was bored and needed to toughen up. Nice guy, pleased I was cool with him.
You never know who is going to grow into a fkin savage be nice to everyone is the smart move
Lucky you, that helped him out a bit!
@@mrx0088totally didn't help him. The guy even said he was tired of being a sissy. Stop your rainbow bs
@@TingTingalingy And remember: don't drive drunk!
Mon mari à 22 ans de légion étrangère et il est actuellement à la 13 DBLE et je suis fiert de son parcours 🥰🥰
Vous pouvez l'être madame merci à votre mari 🇫🇷❤
vous pouvez être fière de lui ! Votre mari doit être une personne incroyable
Y a de quoi être fière.
I am a former legionary from 1993 to 2008 I have been only 15 years, respect the legion, respect the code of honor. thank you for your interest and video.
In what year (2000') was the entitlement for the pension rose from 15y to 18y? Merci. 1REG (1998-2003)
LEGIO PATRIA NOSTRA merci a toi !
Honneur et Fidelite
Seulement 15 ans ????????? En plus d être un dure, t es aussi un marrant.....😂 moi je serais fière de réussir rien que les tests d entrée....et j en suis loin..😂 RESPECT ET BRAVO À TOI......
Merci pour tes années de service et ta loyauté
The French catch a lot of shit for being white flag waving cowards but I’ve worked with them many times and I’ve never seen that to be the case. They are fierce fighters, have an excellent logistical system not relying on the US to carry their load for them, and the Legionnaires are some of the most brutal and fearless men who go through some of the most difficult training of any militaries out there.
🏳🏳🏳
The 'cowards' bit is the result of Allied propaganda to help Allied soldiers feel a bit better about fighting the German army, about which they were understandably nervous. It has never been true. The French have always been great soldiers and probably always will be (Vercingetorix, Napoleon, Petain, de Gaulle, etc.). They've consistently won more than they've lost. In the invasion of France, the Germans took massive risks, used tactics never before seen on the field of battle and, importantly, lost nearly a third of their force anyway. They also spanked the British Expeditionary Force, and anyone who thinks the Brits can't fight is just totally ignorant. France's loss surprised everyone, even Churchill. The German victory says more about the excellence of their troops and commanders than French lack of courage or expertise.
@@unclescipio3136 the "coward" part comes from the politicians not allowing their fighters to handle business. The cowards are ALWAYS the politicians. I'm military and talk shit to other servers, but it's different for us. In my experience, all soldiers have a respect for each other not matter what branch or nation. Generally speaking of course.
Look at the casualties France suffered in a matter of weeks: 90,000 killed, 200,000 wounded. Almost twice that of 10 years of the Vietnam war for the USA. They fought, hard.
@@kurtbjorn3841 and one thing that’s difficult for me to even fathom is the warfare styles of the past. There were a lot of technologies still in their infancy, enemy fighters were mostly uniformed, it was a peer to peer conflict, and for the most part the majority of countries were still just throwing more and more troops at the problem because there really wasn’t any other way of doing business. After the US dropped the atomic weapons on Japan warfare for the US and it’s allies started shifting mostly to fighting against guerrilla warfare tactics against mostly un-uniformed enemies who are generally well dug in on their home turf. That offers its own set of issues but wars nowadays seem to drag on longer and rack up casualties at a slower pace.
The culture of the Legion is expressed in the motto "Legio Patria Nostra" - The Legion is My Country. There is no "multi culturalism" in the Legion, everyone is the same culture - the Legion culture, nothing else matters.
I have a Polish friend who was in FFL for some time, long time actuality... He always spoke highly about FL. “Legion will never betray you”
@Booby Belly yah more likely to have pigs fly out yah bum in a spaceship on a monday mate, ill tell yah right now 🤣
@@triptank7857 why do you say that?
@Booby Belly the legion deals with it's own problems.
Unless half of you decides to collaborate with the occupying nazi's and the other decides to resist. That's how they can betray you. It's happened before look it up.
@@Mr.InbetweenFX The Legion was very new back then. Today the French Army has counter-intelligence that likely keeps close tabs on individuals who may present a security risk. In the U.S. Army we have plenty of soldiers who are originally from "hostile" countries. I was born in Iran for example. But my loyalty has always been to America and I proudly served in the U.S. Army for 8 years. I actually at one time almost went to join the Legion not because I didn't like America, but because I wanted to challenge myself and get the cultural experience.
I still wish I had done so when I was still young. But the U.S. Army was a hell of an adventure as well so it's not a huge regret. That being said, I've always had huge respect for the French Foreign Legion. They are proper soldiers thru and thru.
I have a huge respect for the French Foreign Legion because they really treat everyone as equal. They just want loyalty to the French Republic, courage and brotherhood. Many other military forces could learn from the FFL.
Thank you ! The loyalty is due to the Legion first ("Legio Patria Nostra"), then France (but not to the Republic, which is just a political regime)
I don't think that's true honestly. I've heard a lot of the different cultures don't get along even in the Legion.
@@reckyourself6948 France is what it is. Thrue history we learn. Military are formed, trained, to protect the country and the people, not the politics. They obey to a certain chain of command, but, actually army can rule the country if necessary.
US could learn how brothers work together that are all in the same orphanage
legio patria nosttra not La France patria nostra; look up what happened to the 1st of the legion. staging a coup in the interest of the country and as punishment losing their officers to be put under french officers and losing a part of the legion
I was in Sarajevo in 92 and as a Canadian we found a few legionnaires who once were Canadians. They are a solid organization and go to every crappy corner of the globe without massive support at times. May they have success in there future battles
We are few but persistant.
I was taught martial arts by a former SAS, FFL & mercenary.
I will never forget that guy. When I knew him, he was working a technology gig at the University of Waterloo. You would never have looked at him twice.
But all you had to see was how he moved & looked around.
He wouldn't tell stories unless we got him really drunk. The best stories were about FFL.
8:40
Bruce Lee: "I do not fear the man who has practiced 10,000 moves, but I fear the man who has practiced 1 move, 10 000 times."
Fits pretty well I think. Also good point of view, Jameson. I enjoyed watching this.
I am compelled to mention the astonishing quality of the officers under which I served in the Legion.Better by far than ANY I encountered in the British Army,where I served for 17 years.
Why did you switch from the british army to the legion? especially after 17 years. Doesn't sound realistic to me.
at 42, I wish I could join the FFL.. Retired military already, I probably need to chill out and enjoy life. It's hard to stomach a lot of the nonsense I see in my country though...
@@mikhail7863 If you are stuck in a basic regiment in your country but can join a corp of elite in an other country, that can make sense, isn't it ?
I had the luck to meet some of the 1e RE when i was doing my VSL (2 years military service in France) - These guys were incredible pro, amazing human beings, always generous and kind with us, and the officers i met were just awesome leaders. Had a great time with these folks, and taught me a few important things on life.
@@itskarl79 42 is too late, sorry.
I was stunned a few years ago at an older Chinese co-worker who spoke perfect-sounding French to a visiting MD. Turns out he was in the legion, which stunned me even more.
I was there in mid 1980s. I signed with an American airborne chap. Were still in touch today. It says a lot about the bond formed their in the Legion. Brothers always.
Only if you are completely out of alternatives. I was in the same predicament in the early 80's, I was always doing bum jobs. I joined the Australian Army Reserve (best thing a young fella can do, trust me) . Trained Assault Pioneer and made selection for One Commando Company, Georges Heights Depot. This is WAY back before the Commandos became a second tier to the SAS . I probably would not have made that cut...
@@Cody2nd Why would you if you are from the USA or other developed nation (and able to to join your country's military)?
You lucky warrior
@@Cody2nd you go just go full soul bon chance
@@DavidisDawei There are a lot of restrictions that can bar you from entering service in the US. Tattoos or a criminal record for example.
My Lieutenant was a former legionaire, and he was a MP. He was scary as hell in the beginning. But in the end, such a humble dude. "Löjtnant Gurka!!" 🙌
Where did you serve?
@@malaka0132 Swedish Army 🙏
I belong to the french gendarmerie nationale and i work with légionnaires. They are great. I like there honnestly. Really, i’m proud to work with them regularly since more than twenty years.
Brings me back to my Legion years, decades ago. It was and still is about fundamental fighting skills: not high tech, but how to fight, maneuver for the killshot, overwhelm your opponent with ferocity and overriding pain. Good years, no regrets
Pretty rare to see a American citizen so in tune with the history of conflicts, props to you sir
My sergeant was a former legionaire. He messed us up properly with the physics but i am happy he did, thanks to him i survived.
You had a lucky start by having a good chef hard but fair brutal but whit reason
Cap cap cappity cap- you can’t join another organized military once you’ve been in the legion.
@@TheSeamus802 He did, but he left the legion after 3 years beacuse of a injury. And yes you can join whatever country you were citizen from birth to join the army there after the legion. Only need to change citizenship back and get a security clearing.
@Forever Hermosa It is not about what he taught us, it was his physics regime. 5 in the morning 1 hour sports orientation in forest. 10 in the evening 1 hour running in dense forest. 1 hour water training in a lake with both all gear on and withouth. 1 hour calisthenics workout inside and 1 hour outside workout with some obstacle courses. Everyday we were in our base. When he thought we were fit enough we had to do some of these exercises with the gasmask on at first, then it went on with both gasmasks and the rubbergear. By the end he dumped us in swamps with full gear from helicopter, he gave us 30-40 year old map to orient back home, we were 119 miles away from the base and took us 6 days to get home, we also had to do some missions. We thought we took the shortest path so forget any roads, everything was either swamp or forest. When we were maybe an hour from reaching base, he and some other soldiers attacked us and put weavesacks on our heads and dumped us in waterfilled ditches. For 24 hours they did different interrogation methods. When we were done he gave us one small fish and one potato, all raw ofc, our first food in 6 days. I think you understand our physics now. Thank you for your question.
@Forever Hermosa I think it is similar to what you in America call pathfinders, but beacuse we dont have the military might of America we have to specialize more broadly than the American soldiers. We are pathfinders, but also specialized snipers (me), jtac, recon,sabotage,urban warfare and all weather. I think it sums it up.
You either join the legion for a fresh start, to reinvent yourself, or just to see if you can handle it.
How about both.
@@alexcantlow740 Some just want to be soldiers.
@@kezzler9556 tbf I would like the challenge to see if I can.
@@alexcantlow740 You need to want it. It's more of a mental game then a physical game, at least that is what I hear from veterans. Also wise to read a book from someone who served so you know what you are walking into.
@@kezzler9556 yer init. Bless man thanks for some good advice
The fact that it’s mandatory for you to learn French speaks to the basic esprit de corpse of the legion. Everyone enters the Legion knowing they have a handicap of language. You learn the same as everyone else learns, which allows you to develop a unique bond with other men who are in the same boat. It’s unlike any other organization in the world. To be able to proudly wear the cappi blanc.
It’s spelled képi blanc, « kapy » in English phonetic.
Soldier's loyalties have often been more to their units and to their comrades than to their country. Mercenary units through the ages have fought very well because of this. In Southern Africa, for instance, both Rhodesia and South Africa had black or mixed units and despite institutional and systemic racism, these men fought well and loyally for their comrades and their officers. That is why unit history with flags, battle honours, legends, etc. are so important. This is what the men fight for.
Rhodesia was a extremely successful Nation and cultivated the land they lived on much better, and in much shorter time than any other African Nation at that time. Rhodesia could've been a very special Nation, and it is very unfortunate it is no longer here.
@@thepreacher7399
Yes but it was not viable in the long term, the white minority could not keep power forever.
The smile on your face around the 7 minute mark is priceless. A smile of approval.
I once was in a situation where i had to be around a group of guys for 5 weeks, one of them was an old man, i was 19 and he was pushing 60, we made meals together and spoke a lot every day, very cool and humble man, i saw him as my short time mentor, one of the last days one of the other guys told med he was a Legionaire veteran with many many years of service.... never seen that one comming, until 25 years later when i understood hes calm nature and mindset... wonder if he is still alive
With the things he probably saw, he no doubt has decided not to worry about day to day life. Don't worry about things, especially what you can't control, is the best life advice there is!
(French guy here, not military)
When I was 22-23 years old I was rock climbing in Corsica with 25kg rucksack with other sports friends (I was still "not too shabby" before a crash that broke my body) and we were overtaken on the mountain trails approaching a place called "Lake Nino" by a pair of légionaires in training...they were just running up the mountain with rucksacks twice the size of ours !
30+ years later I am still amazed thinking of the level of physical trainig...
You make a great point about aggressiveness being a key part of their success. The boxing and close quarters training should be done more here. When I went to boot camp it was done but just a few times almost more out of tradition than as a core component. Learning that getting hit won’t kill you is an incredibly important step for a soldier to learn
Part 2 plz
The personal combat ended up being important in my Legion training, acquainting you to think with pain in battle. Ferocious fights, but no hate
I love your vdo. Has an ex military,at 10:25 there was something that struck me. We spent 10 days outside. It rained for like 7 days. Outside the cold (it vas January in the ridge of some small French mountain;Now I know it may seem stupid,,,but the sound of rain drop on that helmet,that tik,,,,tik,,,tik . Is just nerve raking!! Once again ,keep going!
I know a man who is around 80 and when he was 17 during ww2 he walked from Germany to France and joined the French foreign legion. He then went on to create the gcat catamaran sailboat
Lies
lol dat math
Ok
My platoon leader/instructor had been in the legion. The values he learned in the legion definetly showed in him and the training that se gave. He was funny and a great guy!
Cross trained for a couple hours, (Marine Corp) with the FFL in Africa. I remember their level of discipline was very high. There was no joking and smoking among them but maybe they were under strict orders how to act with us? Also went to the FFL museum in Marseille France and was impressed with their history of not surrendering and fighting to the last man though they still lost the battle. 😯 five year minimum enlistment, at least back then. No females. Small budget I believe?
The same rules still apply there are just less criminals in it now than before
I wouldn't know firsthand but I had a buddy with a Ranger tab get career ending heat-stroke cross training with the Legion in Africa.
@@AikonikBoy What's a career-ending heat stroke? Did he suffer brain damage?
@@adrien5834 A severe case of heat stroke , if you survive it, renders you much more susceptible to heat stroke in general and much more likely to die from heat strokes.
@@jackvaughn4808 Thank you for the answer, I was unaware.
Many South Africans join the Legion also,as their millitary and police services are not only amshadow of it self as it was before, but a mockery of what is left behind of it.
I think a lot of the youngsters hear the stories us OU Manne tell about the old SADF days so they feel that they are missing out on something and joining the new SANDF is not a realistic option.
My grandfather was with the RE 8th army north Africa. . He was alongside Fijians Ausies etc... and even compared to them.. he said the SA troops were the toughest and best soldiers..
Yes they had good training and endurance,aswell as basic dicipline at base,and the room duty and layout of gear and the Police service was the same.
Combine that with knowledge of the bush and ones equipment and rifle handling beyond this world it is a good reason why so many combloc countries combined feared them so much and why the comblocs lost so heavy as they did.
Nee wat die legioen is maar ook nou te kak... gaan liewer na suid afrika se polisie spesiale taak mag. Hulle is nog kwaliteit en meeste van die manne daar is ex 32 battalion, koevoet en verkenning soldate.
Apartheid is over my friend.
Your videos keep surprising me. Great content man. Respectfull, insightfull and straight to the point. Great job !
Greeting from France.
Un beau drapeau breton !
My uncle joined the French Foreign Legion when he was 18. I've never seen him in my life. I know he's still alive, as he writes from time to time, but he's like a stranger.
How do different nationalities and cultures, work together? Because their is no pussification of the nation. Any griping or discontent is struck down immediately, like it should be. Would love to see part deux
The multicultural Legion operates well because everyone is forced to speak the same language, share a common culture and identity, and experience the same hardship as everyone else, there is equality of opportunity, not equality of outcome, the reason multiculturalism fails in western countries is because they don't do any of those things.
They're all force fed French language, customs and food... or they go home. THAT'S how it works. Their 'nation' is the Legion.
@@dieselscience Doesn't matter if you were an American, Bulgarian, French or Chinese.
You're a Legionaire now.
They still have cultural diversity. That's not something you can ever lose. They just find a common goal that's more important.
@@jekyllhiding No, they do not. They have the _Culture of the LEGION._ Religion, race, national origin and language are all secondary to the LEGION.
When discussing the French army, Lafayette and Joan of Arc come to mind. The latter, being just a 19-year-old, led the French army against the British. The war finally concluded in 1453 with France's victory. The French army are no wimps as it is portrayed in the media.
only a fraction of USA media under influence from Bush jr propaganda from 2003
Only ignorant people think the french are a bunch of white flagging cowards. France won way more wars than any other countries in the world. Being half German and half French, I'm very proud of my ancestors.
LEGION PATRIA NOSTRA. Greetings from Croatia 🇭🇷( 🇪🇺) .In FFL I meet some real friends from all over the world ( free bed and food 🙂) & we are all in contact , especially us who are in PMC biz.
@@Cody2nd Most of ex FFL from Europe ,SA & NA go after to work in private sector & most of guys from Africa, Azia are just for the French passport ( but every Legionare has his own reasons I just writing from my experience and my generation in FFL bcz 30-40 y ago men from my country went to FFL to escape communist regime and to be in non communist military ,later those ex Legionare where the best commanders which got us freedom in 90this Croatia war for independence from communist aggression)
@@CroHOOLIGANs cheers mate! Well understood , the Croatian struggle is not lost to me. Živila Hrvatska!
@@jspee1965 Živila!
@@CroHOOLIGANs There is two sides of a story i remember that aggression was committed by your paramilitaries attacking army bases and killing soldiers before the war officially started , so if the definition of aggression is who attack first then there was no Communist aggression . But why did neo nazis from many countries fight for you ,for HOS ? Maybe because of ww2 when the the country was a nazi puppet state as you we'll know but of course there were communists fighting to that evil.
It's just sad that many in the Balkans don't think like the Legion ,it doesent matter where someone is from all are homo sapiens ..humans.
@@aramisone7198 which army bases,in which country..in Croatia(bcz I live in the city which was on fist line & 50m from ex military base so I saw guy's running from that base telling people that they don't wanna shoot on Croats,and we help them to go home safe ) ,bcz army which had red star on their uniforms & that "people's army" after free elections took all Croatia national guard wepons . Yes we had in our ranks lot of people from all over World which come to save 1 little country against that big army + all kinds of paramilitary forces . In the beginning we had only personal wepons and still tanks,heavy artillery, rockets where landing on civilian population from Dubrovnik ,Split,Zadar,Šibenik,Gospić, Karlovac, Sisak, Osijek , Vukovar ( one of the worst war crime in Europe after WW2 ,N1 is Srebrenica work of the same army ),off course you will tell that Croatia is guilty for war crimes against them bcz something that happen in WW2 & that we have help from 100k foren volonters! And we won a war that was ONLY on CROATIA soil bcz NATO help us with airplanes 🤦. perfect example how people can be brain washed if they don't see what a horrible thing war is
Hey great video on the French Foriegn Legion! Please do part two! Love the fact that these guys come from all over the world yet mesh into one highly trained and motivated unit. Really cool to see!
It really is amazing that they take a group of men from all different backgrounds, cultures, beliefs and values and turn them into a group of soldiers. They all seem to get along. That’s really cool
I would guess the Legion is successful in bringing together different cultures is they provide a common goal. Whereas in the USA and other places when people start to get along the powers that be (whoever that is) will inject hate through social/mainstream media to ensure the people at the bottom (me and you) keep fighting each other instead of looking up at the real injustices.
Also everyone has to learn French (completely fluently) before Day 1, which I think shows a lot of dedication and effort to enlist and cooperate.
Maybe we should all just learn French, lol
Start playing the knockout game with the media that will stop the ratty ways .
@@DisDatK9 That's not true - you need to have a certain level, and it will prevent you from promotion, but you do NOT have to be 'fluent' to sign up. That's why they make a point in the video to explain that their training is barely any "classroom work" and all done by watch-and-repeat, with the francophones understanding and passing it along to those who cannot understand the instructor.
@@Dune571 interesting. I wonder if Bear Grylls got the cadre to lie or if that was actually changed, you can watch the program when he goes through FFL selection and they fully expected them to understand and speak French. (I’m pretty sure the word fluidly was used as well but I may be wrong.)
@@DisDatK9 french is the only language used In the Legion. The officers give orders in french, everything is written in french, the legionaires communicate and learn the job in french. So it is useful to have basics in the language but it is not compulsory at all. Some recruits don't speak a single word of french when they arrive. They will learn french during courses integrated in their training and with the help of the other legionaires.
So they didn't make any exception for Bear Grylls and the officers only talked to him in French.
Love this. Really interested, keen to see Part 2. My Captain in the French army in the mid 1980's was a Legionnaire and he was a tough, fair impressive and inspirational leader and warrior.
Their is a TH-cam channel made by "Major Gerald" is Major, sport officer at Aubagne (already speak vollume)and it's really cool if you speak french , the dude is a monster : ex-box champion, he did did all the major confict since the 80 and he is one of the most fit soldier of the legion (even if he 51), he is really active on the french youtube.
I joined because I was dishonorably discharged from the US military and wanted a chance to redeem my honor
@Oppose the leftist scourge. doesn't matter. He's doing good now
My question is how dose it work if you dont speak their language?
If you don’t know French, you’ll learn it
@@jammibruno879 all the legionnaires, even who not speak french at debut, did learn french language, with the help from french speaking comrades, and with instruction.I known 2 legionaires , 1 from the USA and 1 from Russia, who not speak a single word french at debut : after 5 years they did speak french very correctly, both are now french citizens, after a long carrier in the legion...
for the record, its HARD to get a dishonorable discharge. I smell a troll.
The motto of the FFL is "The Legion is our homeland." in Latin. When they talk about patriotism it is more like commeraderie towards their fellow legionaires.
Legio Patria Nostra :)
You're absolutely right, Legio Patria Nostra, but it's the same in others regular regiments, Ma Patrie c'est mon regiment, is something often heard, we fight for the beret, for the comrads.
The success of the legion, in a nut shell, is well explained at the end when he says that everyone's personal culture and religion is respected but kept private. In the Legion it's the Legion culture, period, and that's what keeps it all together. In other words, it's a secular culture, if I understand it right.
Marc, you're right. France is fiercely secular. No hijabs in the schools, nor can one wear a yamulke. No large, visible crucifixes, either. "Laïcité" is very important here.
I met a few of them in Afghanistan in late 2003 and I was extremely impressed with there physical fitness. I remember running on a treadmill next to one in a cold tent gym and we were at over five thousand feet Elevation. This guy ran on a treadmill at full incline for over an hour. I was us to running over six miles a day at the time and remember being extremely impressed. I stop him on the way out of the tent and that how I learn he was a Legionaire. The next day I ship out to small fire base and never saw him again but I know a killer when I see one and you could see it in his eyes. Sadly Civilized Society is to soft to fight real wars. Having your own force of Mercenaries is in genius!
My father was at a farm for boys in Upstate New York hard labor. He didn't go to high school. When he turned 17 the judge told him you want big boy jail or Vietnam? He joined the Navy. After 31 years he came out as a CWO4 with a college degree, he was a gunner, special weapons too. These men are good men. Some men just need structure.
What was the name and location of the farm in upstate New York?
Exactly...everyone needs a little guidance in there life.
One thing the legion does is teach every recruit French if you don’t learn it you’ll get treated like a dummy and not get promoted. It’s one way to weed out the rotten apples.
I'm in the British Military , it's pissing me off a little it's getting to nambi pambi, pink and fluffy, don't train if it's to hot or cold. The Legion has to be the only Hard core unit left.
From the moment you have given up your passport and receive a French passport with a French name, your origin ceases while you are in The Foreign Legion. They break one down to build you up as a war machine and your unit is your family. You are not afraid of death, a legon never backs down, never gives up but fights until he either wins or falls. Although legoners can be at a disadvantage, he does not give up but wonders how many can I tamed myself into death. Most people who apply to The Foreign Legion want to see if they are tough enough physically and mentally, many want the tough discipline, many really want to fight and the chance is greatest that you get to do it within The Foreign Legion. Many people do not want a regular job without real excitement or andrenaline. From my city in Northern Sweden called Kiruna, there were a large number of young men who during World War II, who enlisted in The Foreign Legion and participated in fighting during the rest of World War II and continued to be Legons and went to the places they were sent to fight for The Foreign Legion. None of these remain in Life today.
Part two please, always love watching stuff related to the Legion
Thanks for an interesting look into the modern French Foreign Legion. It is fascinating to see how they are able to blend so many cultural backgrounds into a singular fighting unit. Keep up the great content! Thanks.
You receive the option for French citizenship afterward which appeals a lot to people from poor places with no opportunities
They learn the language and get citizenship with benefits as a veteran
True. Citizenship is offered after 5 years service. Also if you are wounded in combat before that time you automatically receive French citizenship
@@cromwellg60 the citizenship or a permit to live and work in France?
There re a mis-info on that
I ve seen guys telling that after 5 years u dont get citizenship but the permit
Other folks like yourself say that u get citizenship.
Now Idk
@@KakashiHatake-mw7sg After three years it's possible to apply for citizenship.
I think after five years it's possible to get it automatically.
@@cromwellg60 Where's the bullet? There? Here I dive!
Best regards from 2 REP. 🇺🇸🇫🇷
In the UK forces we say, 'if it ain't raining, it ain't training'.
And "one up the shitter ,ya bitte'"......
If it ain’t raining, it ain’t UK :)
If its rainin we aint trainin - Airforce 😂
We used to say that when I was serving in the Australian Army and then when we worked alongside the US Marines I heard them use that expression as well. Now I find out our British cousins operated under the same adage! God knows who actually made up the expression but it's the truth though.
@@danrobinson8380 probably the British as it's always raining 😅
As an ex legionnaire, (1994-2000), i am pleased to see that the legion still respects and accepts its recruits from wherever. Training is still very discipline oreinted, albeit with better kit of which i am somewhat jealous. LPN!!
The patriotism turn to be patriots to the legion. "Legio patria nostra" - Basically, "The legion is our country"
Same reason I went to the oil field. " Test my metal " . I was surprised at how many ex military guys were on the rigs . Some men have an internal voice that tells us to push our selves to the limit and stay out of our comfort zone.
Mettle.
It’s great to see so many young men come together from all over
Hi Jameson. I live in France at the moment and we regularly stumble across Legionaires on anti-terrorist patrol
Would love to see the part 2
For historical context, the 13e DBLE was one of the primary French combat unit of WW2. It served in Norway and North Africa (Battle of Bir-Hakeim) for the allies. It was also part of the famous battle of Dien Bien Phu in Indochina. Recently it’s been serving in the Sahel (Mali) alongside detachments from many different army regiments. It’s currently a mechanized infantry regiment with VAB’s and VBCI’s.
I think the men who decide to serve the legion are looking for a second chance at serving a higher calling.
arent we all?
Sometimes not always. My friend in the UK Scots Guards left to join the legion due to hating ceremonial duties, the funny thing is he did more in the Legion Estranger than he did in the Guards.
I think your spot on mate .............some are joining to test themselves, others to escape from their lives and some are needing a second chance because they think they've wasted too much of their lives !!!!!!
The thing is, you can get a new identity, if you want. Remember many germans joined after WWII.
I’m German and came to U.S. and served and earned citizenship the honorable way. My grandfather during WW2 was put on front line for a cause he didn’t believe in and got captured on purpose. Became French foreign Legionär and fought at all the famous battles in Africa. Had heavy ptsd, would clear trenches with his knife, would also run ahead of his platoon to prematurely trigger ambushes. I only ever saw one photo of him in bathtub reading news paper with long beard. As child I thought he looked like a bum, but as I got older I had no idea the kind of man he was. It was incredible to learn honor lies deep in both sides of my family.
As legion has her museum, pensionary, archives etc... They can have informations about him. Minimum they have is services records. A lot of details can be interesting for you in it.
Ask them by mail or anything before go to see them.
Even without any formal response, you could be surprise irl (don't forget official proof that you are from his family).
A old neighbor of mine was in, he was the most orderly disciplined guy you ever met.
Ive been thinking about joining the legionaires or trying out sfas. I am a vet but I myself am drawn to action. I have been in combat in 3 different zones in the main 3 being Iraq, Afghanistan, & Syria. I just like the legions outlook of what a soldier is suppose to be. Fight for a purpose and not because its a job but a way of life.
Don't spend too much time thinking, if u miss that life just go to aubagne soon as you got a ticket!!
5 year USMC. Luckily got to go to afghan but most likely going legion now. You still thinking about going?
@@VexillumTraining No I am done with the lifestyle going to live a normal & boring life for my kids and wifey.
and what would be your purpose for fighting?
@@a55tech The souls to the left and right of me.
The weapon becomes an extention of the body. 20 years out, even though I haven got the muscles, I still have the muscle memory of a rifle. It's strange you can feel it when you think of it.
You think you do but you don't. Muscle memory is good and stays but efficency comes from repetition and constant handling. I served in the UK I last fired in 2005. I went on holiday to Vegas and shot several calibres. My "instructor" said I was a phenomenal shot for a "newbie". I thought it was terrible my groupings were tight but not as good as during my time.
@@sanderson9338 oh I would be rusty as hell. I just ment I cab feel the feeling of the wepon.
J'ai plusieurs amis légionnaires et surtout ex légo à Castelnaudary , c'est irremplaçable 🤝🤝🤝
J'ai eu l'occasion de faire des pique-nique a la ferme belle aire, endroit calme pour se reposé 🤣🤣
I am a U.S. Army Infantry veteran from the 80s. When I ETS out, I thought about joining the Legion. I wished I did. About ten years ago l met a Portuguese fellow who was a Legionnaire who served in Iraq. He spoke very highly of them. He is the only Legionnaire I have ever met. YES, please do more video on them. 🇨🇵 😊
waking up with a video from our favorite Marine! Keep it up!
thanks for watching.
@jamesons Travels we will always watch love the content
Professionally well done, well-annotated as to the causal and personal motivating effects of young men volunteering and joining the French Foreign Legion for short intermediate and long term personal career goals
I'm twenty nine years old. I have had trouble here stateside. I hope to join the Legion this year.
also start learning french asap i can reccomend you that it will save you some trouble i guess :). The physique part is a no brainer haha :) have fun wish you manage well
@@ecskinetic I have started to learn some French. I recite the code of honor in French daily. Five mile run every morning and thirty pull ups in the even
@@danieldabella4869 OK nice. Pullups be sure to do them Legion style otherwise you wont pass the entrance door at the gates in aubange. Learn body parts and houshold item names first in french and weapon parts. Try do the pft regular not Just 5 Miles running that wont do! The requirements for the pft can be found online. If you manage the pft with sprinting to each Station No walking Always sprinting !!! Also i can reccomend to secure a nice Mix of music from all countrys cause Most dont think of that IT helps a Lot to make Friends fast during für recrutment and Processing time of your documents. I meet a Guy there WHO was waiting in the recrutment/ processing area for More than 5 month! He was quite happy when i played some Songs from New Zealand. And for the sake of all other recruts try and get a table soccer ball! It is the only social game in there but No balls just the table hehe.
@@danieldabella4869 - the recruitment center is in Paris.
@@ecskinetic Roger that, dead hang bar over the chin. What do you mean by PFT. Are you referring to the "LEC LUGER TEST". Thank you for advice on which French to learn first, I'll admit I was pretty lost on that part.
It may seem an observation from left field, but joining the Legion or going on kibbutz fulfilled much the same role for many a disaffected youth 50 years ago. A sense of purpose, a ready-made family, it being unimportant where you came from.
I'm glad there's people like you on the internet. Old school like me.
I really admire the French Legion, they have such a culturally diverse army, it's actually refreshing to see, brothers in arms from other nations, wearing the same uniform, fighting for the same cause and living together, eating together, and training together. This would be the most interesting outfit in the world when there is so much to learn from each other. Sadly, I can't say the same about our troops here. I've seen guys literally being discriminated just for being from the 'wrong part' of town or from the 'wrong' Province or state. Canada is not that much different but the reality is, a divided nation will not stand.
The man in charge of the coup guinea was a Légionnaire
All criminals
I served with legionnaires, one word to describe them: discipline!
The modern Legion dont take hardcore criminals, they do back ground searches and run your data thou Interpols data base.
Just a precision. You mention that some légionaires may have a criminal background. But "crimes de sang" like murder are not accepted.
Definitely do part 2.
The one phrase that used to piss me off so bad was when a training NCO would say, "Today is a great day to train!"
And it's pouring down rain and 40 degrees. Or it's 100 degrees with no clouds. Or there's 8 inches of snow and the frozen ground is as hard as concrete.
But, in a few years, earlier than most, I figured out that any jackass can train when it's ideal. Successful militaries train when it sucks.
I still hated it, but I got it.
Embrace the suck!
Always love working with these guys just extremely loyal dedicated
The FFL doesn't prepare for battle, the battle prepares for the FFL
Dam
The making and refining of real men. Without these men the world would easily be run by those who find unchecked power an irresistible pursuit.
Excellent!! If it had not been for the pandemic, it will be a year in the legion, but I still have that dream and that goal very present in me and I know that I will achieve it.
Thanks France , thanks Légion. Merci .
It’s quite interesting how they all became brothers. They motto is legion patria nostra or legion our country
my morning routine is complete....
lol. #notcnn
When I served in 2eme R E P,(1977-1982) most of the new recruits were ex military from elsewhere.
My friend was in the legion. 11th parachute brigade. North vietnam.
If you’re ever doing any home projects or anything you’d see on youtube. Cars, bikes, woodworking, and what not. Would love to see
keep that in mind. thanks for watching.
Jamesons Travels thank you and for reading. I just can tell you definitely have some interesting projects just to do or waiting to have a reason to go at it haha. Hope things are going well.
if you look at some of the documentaries about the legion from the 90's you can see why they are some of the most elite soldiers in the world, most people in out of the way countries like Ghana, Cameroon, Benin, Liberia all know about the legion and their history of soldiering in the african continent
I thought real hard about doing this after I got out of the Infantry in 2014. It was either family or the legion. I chose family.
@Cody Rice I hacked it enough brother. It was time for me to pack it in.
When fulfiling my military duties which were mandatory 30 years ago in France for all young men we sometimes
had the opportunity to "train" with these guys in south France military camps . being profesional they were at another level in all
fighting fields . Great guys ! not the kind to be messed up with AT ALL but great guys with a very special mindset. La légion is their
family
As a former airborne infantry staff sergeant with a combat jump and a couple combat deployments over 6 years. I understand the appeal to the Legion and to be a soldier. Similarly, I felt the appeal to “test my medal” by volunteering for SEERS, Ranger and Selection while in; even though I planned on getting out of the Army and didn’t need the schools for promotion. My unit didn’t send me to SEERs and I didn’t end up going to Selection but as a sergeant in my unit, I was pretty much forced to go to Ranger and Jump Master school among a handful of other less intense schools over the years. I’m going down to the recruiter TODAY, with my eldest son where he is signing for an IT job with the US Army. His reasons for joining are different then mine were and that’s fine. Although the training transformed this once D average high school student (me) into a straight A, multiple college graduate, beside two B+s. The thing that sets the US military apart is the benefits. I never joined for college money but damn if the US government didn’t pay over 90,000 for schooling and living expenses during my time in college. Now I have a federal job making great money that I got because I was a veteran and my service time is credited towards retirement, leave, ect. Foreign Legion is a great option for some. If you have a record that the US government, the most powerful and wealthy organization in the world, will not give you a waver for... I barely got in, so I understand. I haven’t always agreed with all our gov policies but having the right mindset has allowed me to make a difference for good
“Mettle”
Greetings from turkiye. I have big respect for you sir
I Spent 8 Years in the Legion. 2REG
Merci l'ami. o7
Should you ever be in my vicinity, I will buy you a beer or five.
Had a friend in the Belgian Army who spent some time in the Legion. He ended up getting kicked out of the FFL after a big brawl happened between multiple FFL soldiers over some cultural "misunderstandings". He ended up returning to the Belgian army and is still there, a decade later. I think once you're a legionnaire , a fight over cultural differences may be sorted out without getting kicked out. But the brawl he was in happened while they were still going through training to become a legionnaire.
That , or he could be lying and just failed the training lol. He has a couple of pics though that proof that he was at least in training.
Missed the 24 hour deadline due to work but wanted to say I loved this video. Many things from their training that should be applied to daily life here in the United States