France G.I.B.P.O.M/1e R.P.I.Ma.

[Simon F]

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[Simon F]

The guy without the headgear seems to be in a different uniform, i.e. badges. He is the same fellow who is in the 3 parade photos holding the MAT49 (Squad/Class leader). I am not certain whether his is just doing parachute training, changing units, etc? Perhaps someone could shed some light on this?

Edited February 14, 2009 by Simon F

[Simon F]

Soldiers having a lark, I am not certain about the other uniforms here, perhaps some kind of Alpine troops, judging by the headwear?

[Simon F]

Same guys..

[Simon F]

Unusual scenes of a mock execution, I am not sure if this is training or fun?!

Edited February 14, 2009 by Simon F

[Simon F]

Playing dead.

[Simon F]

Saluting and last respects.

[Simon F]

...

[Simon F]

Another shot of Claude in his salty camo fatigues.

[Simon F]

I am presuming that these are blank rounds due to the blank firing attachment on the MG.

[Simon F]

Note unit insignia on helmet.

[Simon F]

.....

[bab]

Just a speculation, but could the unit badge on the shoulder board be the unit he was assigned to or the unit he?s about to be assigned to, since he seems to wear the training unit badge on the pocket? Do I see a backing to the parachutist?s brevet?

Nice pics Simon, makes one want to experience that tingling feeling of jumping again...

/GRA

Hello,

nice pictures!!

this insignia is now known as "brevet de pr?papration militaire parachutiste"

Commonly found in grouping of soldier from 50's to 60's it was, at this period the regular military insignia given after 4 jump. Just before completing the course of 6 jump... In the late 70's only the para badge was given, and this insignia start "a new live" for young civilian doing an Airborne period.

Herl

[Bison]

Hello,

nice pictures!!

this insignia is now known as "brevet de pr?papration militaire parachutiste"

Commonly found in grouping of soldier from 50's to 60's it was, at this period the regular military insignia given after 4 jump. Just before completing the course of 6 jump... In the late 70's only the para badge was given, and this insignia start "a new live" for young civilian doing an Airborne period.

Herl?

Yes you are almost right. However, they were a few having made this preparatory course before being appointed in a parachute regiment. The Pre-parachute 'students' were only around 20 - 30% in the regular parachute course.

This explain why they were proud to wear this badge on the shoulder.

Regards