Just the mention of the French Foreign Legion to many brings evocative images from the movie 'Beau Geste' with out-numbered Legionnaires holed up in a crumbling desert fortress and surrounded by hordes of angry Arabs. Of course, the outlook is hopeless, yet the men bravely fight on until the end.

Well, like all movies, there is a kernel of truth in there. The French Foreign Legion did get its reputation for toughness in combat during the various wars the French fought during the late 1800s and early 1900s. This was all to either expand or hold on to their growing empire. During this time, they fought in the deserts of Morocco and Algeria, the jungles of what is now Vietnam and in West Africa and on the island of Madagascar. Though there were also regular French Army units and the units comprised of local troops, it was the men of the Foreign Legion that were the best at what they did.

In his book on these troops, author Martin Windrow concentrates on the men and equipment of these units. As with all Men-At-Arms titles, this one provides a background to the various campaigns, has a look at how the conflicts progressed and were resolved, then takes a closer look at how these men performed during the various campaigns. It would probably not surprise anyone that the campaigns in West Africa and Madagascar produced very high casualty rates, mostly from disease with easily 3/4 of the original troops being affected. Interestingly, the casualty rate, while still high, wasn't that devastating in Vietnam or North Africa. Throughout the book are a superb collection of period photos and illustrations. This is all enhanced more by the superbly done uniform illustrations of Mike Chappell.

It is another fascinating title and looks at a force that still has a reputation for toughness and getting the job done.  It is a very interesting read and can easily be recommended.  

July 2010

 For more on the complete line of Osprey books, visit www.ospreypublishing.com or contact them at Osprey Direct at 44-02 23rd St, Suite 219, Long Island City, NY 11101., where you can get a catalogue of available books.

If you would like your product reviewed fairly and quickly, please contact me or see other details in the Note to Contributors.