FRENCH FOREIGN LEGION (RIF WAR 1921-1926)

The Foreign Legion (French Legion entrangere) is a French, elite combat unit, which was created in 1831 by King Louis Philip of Orleans to conduct operations in Algeria. The unit was overwhelmingly recruited from outside France from the outset, and to this day maintains its genuinely foreign character. In the 19th century, the Foreign Legion operated mainly outside its home territory of France - especially in Africa. Soldiers of this formation also took part in both world wars, as well as, for example, in the First Gulf War (1990-1991). At present, Legia consists of approximately 7,700 people divided into 11 regiments. The 2nd Airborne (Parachute) Regiment, based in Calvi, Corsica, is considered to be the most elite. The Foreign Legion is also famous for its very high discipline and strict internal rules. After 1945, units of the Legion were sent wherever the political interests of France were threatened. Interestingly, to this day, it is forbidden to use it in combat in the home country.