One of my readers asked me about how to join the French Foreign Legion
I mentioned them in one of my book lists.
Yes, the French Foreign Legion still exists. They are not a myth.
They are very real and every year thousands of young men from around the world go to France to enlist and disappear into the brotherhood of the Legion.
French Foreign Legion was a creation of Louis Philippe the King of France in 1831.
The idea of the unit was to form an army of foreigners to fight wars outside France to help expand the French Empire.
The establishment of the new regiment specified that the foreigners recruited could only serve outside France.
This meant the Regiment was stationed outside France.
Later the Legion became too powerful as an Independent Army of foreigners outside the French borders that was only answering to the President of France.
So they decided to bring back the Legion to mainland France to have more control over them.
France created a pit-bull that almost got out of control so they put a leash on it.
If you walk around Paris you might see some “French” Soldiers walking around Paris with white hats on.
These hats are called the Kepi Blanc (white hat) which is the legendary symbol of the French foreign legion.
Only the Legion wears the Kepi Blanc.
The Regiment is only open to foreigners.
You can sign a contract for 5 years and then get a French Passport.
If you choose to disappear, you can take on a new French name and let go of who you used to be.
Then your old life is something of the past and you get reborn as a legionnaire with a new French Identity.
If you don't want to be found then this the place to go.
But make no mistake the legion is no joke.
They are an elite fighting force with a code of secrecy and Loyalty.
The legion is legendary in France and is respected as true warriors.
There is a respect for men who are willing to fight for another country and maybe sacrifice their lives in service of that country.
But first you need to pass their selection and so be physically fit.
In the old days, people with criminal records were allowed but those days are over.
If you have a criminal record then you can't join.
If you make it through selection then you will be asked to choose your preference of units.
You can become an Infantryman, Armored Soldier or join the Elite Paratroopers of the 2nd Rep in Corsica.
The island of Corsica is just off the coast of France.
Also, you will get French classes for a few months because you have to learn French.
Most Legion Troops are on the mainland but the legion has bases in Africa and South America where they conduct brutal commando courses.
The legion has recently served in hot spots around the world like Afghanistan and Iraq.
They are never far from the action.
The legion is scene as more expendable compared to normal French soldiers because if foreigners die it's not as bad as French boys losing their lives.
But the upside is you get to see the world, experience things that nobody else will and get a French passport at the end of it.
If you do decide to join remember that its a Regiment with very high levels of discipline.
So you will have a monk-like existence for the first few years.
If you sign on that paper your ass belongs to the legion for 5 years.
So if you want to test yourself and do something extreme then maybe the legion is for you.
But if you want to have a bit more balance in life then join your local military in your country.
For those who are interested to go after something different in life keep on reading and learn more about the legion.
The History of the French Foreign Legion
The French Foreign Legion is one of the most renowned and mysterious military units in history.
Its origins date back to 1831, when it was established as a unit of foreign volunteers to fight for France.
Since then, the Legion has been involved in numerous wars and campaigns, including those in Algeria, Indochina, and Afghanistan. Here is an overview of its fascinating history.
The Foundation of the Legion
The French Foreign Legion was founded on March 10, 1831 by King Louis-Philippe I during the reign of Charles X.
The original purpose of the Legion was to provide military support to France’s colonies abroad.
The first group of recruits consisted mostly of Swiss and German soldiers who had fought with Napoleon Bonaparte.
As time went on, more recruits from other countries joined the ranks.
Today, people from over 140 different countries have served in the Foreign Legion.
The First Major Conflict: Algeria
The first major conflict that the French Foreign Legion participated in was Algeria (1830–47).
This campaign saw heavy losses for both sides but ultimately resulted in a French victory.
After Algeria, the Foreign Legion gained a reputation as a unit that could handle tough missions and achieve difficult objectives.
They were known for their bravery and resilience under adverse conditions—traits that would become even more pronounced during World War I and II.
Deployments Since WWII
Since World War II, the French Foreign Legion has been deployed all over the world—from Indochina (1945–54) to Africa (1956–62) to Afghanistan (2001–present).
In each conflict they fought with distinction and courage, despite being vastly outnumbered or outgunned by their opponents.
In recent years they have been involved in peacekeeping operations in Mali, Central African Republic, Chad, Lebanon, Ivory Coast and Syria as well as training missions in Iraq and Jordan.
The Modern French Foreign Legion: Why Men From Around the World Still Join Today
The French Foreign Legion has been an iconic part of international military history for over 150 years.
It is no secret that the legion remains a popular choice for men from around the world who are looking to join a highly respected and elite fighting force.
What is it about the modern version of this foreign legion that still attracts so many men?
Let’s take a closer look at why the French Foreign Legion remains such a popular choice today.
A Long History of Excellence
The French Foreign Legion was established in 1831, making it one of the oldest foreign legions in existence.
Over its long history, the legion has seen action in numerous major conflicts, including both World Wars, as well as various other operations around the world.
This long history of excellence and bravery has earned them immense respect from their peers, making it a popular choice for those seeking to make their mark on history.
A Unique Opportunity
The French Foreign Legion also offers a unique opportunity for its members; after five years of service, they can become citizens of France with all of the rights and privileges that entails.
This is an opportunity not offered by any other foreign legion and makes it especially attractive to those seeking new opportunities in life.
Furthermore, members who successfully complete their five-year tour will be eligible for a generous pension after retirement.
A Reputation For Success
Finally, one cannot overlook the fact that the French Foreign Legion has an impressive success record in international conflicts.
In recent years they have seen success on numerous fronts, including peacekeeping missions in Africa and anti-terrorist operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.
This record speaks volumes about their commitment to excellence and their ability to get results even under adverse conditions—all things which attract potential recruits from around the globe.
All these factors make this legendary foreign legion an attractive option for those seeking adventure and new opportunities abroad — both now and in the future.
An Introduction to the French Foreign Legion – How To Join The French Foreign Legion
The French Foreign Legion is a renowned military unit of the French Army, composed primarily of foreign nationals from around the world.
If you are considering joining this elite fighting force, you might be wondering what it takes to be accepted and how the training process works.
Here we’ll discuss how to join the Legion, their selection process and initial basic training.
Selection Process
The selection process for those wishing to join the French Foreign Legion is both rigorous and extensive.
Prospective members must first pass a physical fitness test before they can proceed with their application.
This includes a series of exercises such as push-ups, pull-ups, sit-ups and running.
Once this has been completed, applicants will then have to complete an aptitude test that tests their knowledge in areas such as mathematics and languages.
After passing these two phases, applicants will then have an interview with a senior officer who will assess whether or not they are fit for duty in the Legion.
Basic Training
After being accepted into the French Foreign Legion, recruits begin their basic training at one of two camps – Castelnaudary or Orange – where they will be trained in all aspects of military life by experienced instructors.
During this process recruits are taught basic infantry skills such as marksmanship, combat tactics and first aid; as well as instruction on military regulations and discipline.
Additionally, recruits also receive physical training, which includes running/marching long distances (upwards of 45 miles), obstacle courses, and other grueling exercises designed to help them build strength and endurance for future deployments.
Furthermore, recruits are required to learn French during their time at camp so that they can communicate effectively with their fellow legionnaires once deployed abroad.
Joining the French Foreign Legion is no small feat – it requires dedication, determination and hard work on the part of prospective members who wish to serve in this distinguished military unit.
Those who succeed in making it through selection have earned themselves a place among some of France’s most elite soldiers – something that few can claim!
But if you want even more and you want to serve in the most elite unit in the Legion then join The 2nd Foreign Parachute Regiment (2e REP).
Joining the Elite 2nd Foreign Parachute Regiment of the French Foreign Legion
The 2nd Foreign Parachute Regiment (2e REP) is one of the most elite military units in the world.
It was first established in 1948 and consists of volunteers from all over the world who are willing to endure grueling physical tests and psychological challenges as part of their application process.
Those who make it through this process will join an exclusive group of highly trained and motivated soldiers who have earned respect from their peers for their courage and determination.
What it Takes to Join the 2nd REP
The physical tests that applicants must pass are designed to simulate conditions they may experience while on duty, so those interested in joining should be prepared for long hours, intense physical exertion, and extreme weather conditions.
The training regimen includes running up to 10 kilometers with a full combat load; performing push-ups, sit-ups, pull-ups, chin-ups, burpees, and other exercises; firing weapons accurately at various distances; navigating difficult terrain; as well as learning how to survive in hostile environments.
In addition to physical requirements, applicants must also pass psychological tests designed to determine if they have what it takes to serve in the unit.
This includes tests of mental fortitude such as stress management under pressure and problem-solving skills.
Those who pass these tests will be invited to undergo further evaluation before being accepted into the regiment’s ranks.
The Benefits of Being Part of the 2nd REP
Those who make it through the gruelling training regime can expect a number of benefits for their hard work and dedication.
These include being part of one of France’s most prestigious military units; receiving specialized training that prepares them for any situation they may face while on duty.
They also get access to some of the best medical care available, enjoy camaraderie with fellow legionnaires, and have an opportunity to travel around the world while serving their adopted country.
Joining the 2nd Foreign Parachute Regiment requires dedication, discipline, and determination—but those traits alone aren’t enough to guarantee acceptance into its ranks.
How to Obtain a French Passport After Serving in the French Foreign Legion
Joining the French Foreign Legion can be a life-changing experience.
Not only do you get the chance to serve and protect France, but you also gain a wealth of knowledge and skills that will stay with you for the rest of your life.
For those who complete five years of service, there’s an additional reward—the opportunity to apply for a French passport.
Here’s what you need to know about obtaining one:
Eligibility Requirements
In order to be eligible for a French passport after serving five years in the French Foreign Legion, you must meet certain requirements:
First, your time served must have been completed while under contract with the Foreign Legion and not as part of any other organization or military force.
Additionally, you must have served honorably during your time with the Foreign Legion and been considered an exemplary member of their ranks.
Finally, if you are applying for citizenship through naturalization, you must have resided in France or one of its territories for at least two years prior to application.
Application Process
Once you’ve determined that you meet all of the eligibility requirements for obtaining a French passport after serving in the French Foreign Legion, it’s time to begin your application process.
The first step is to obtain a “Certificat d’Aptitude au Corps de la Légion Étrangère” (CACLE) form from your commanding officer which confirms that you served honorably during your tenure in the Foreign Legion.
You will also need to provide proof that you have met all residency requirements if applicable.
Once these documents are gathered and submitted along with your passport application form, it may take up to six months for processing and approval before receiving your new passport.
Costs Associated With Obtaining a French Passport After Serving in the Foreign Legion
The cost associated with obtaining a French passport after serving five years in the French Foreign Legion vary depending on how long it takes for processing and approval by local authorities as well as whether or not residency requirements were met prior to applying for naturalization (if applicable).
In general, however, applicants should expect to pay between €200-€400 depending on their situation.
Applying for a French passport after completing five years of service in the French Foreign Legion can be an exciting process!
While there are specific eligibility requirements that must be met before being granted naturalization status or permission to receive a new passport, once those criteria are fulfilled it is possible to become an official citizen of France within six months or less!
Conclusion
It is easy to see why so many men choose to join the French Foreign Legion; it offers them a chance to serve their country while also experiencing adventure and camaraderie like few other units can match.
From its humble beginnings in 1831 right up until today—when it is still fighting valiantly against terrorism—the French Foreign Legion has remained true to its motto “Honor And Fidelity” throughout its long and storied history.
One thing is for certain if you do join your life will never be the same. You will be a legionnaire for life.
