France French Foreign Legion, Uniform traditions

[Bernhard H.Holst]

Hello readers.

I came across an old ( 1960 ) issue of the French Foreign Legion monthly publication "Kepi Blanc" which contains an article concerning the history of certain items of uniform and associated items. The article was based on a pamphlet for newly joined officers for familiarization purposes.

- Kepi Blanc ( white covered headgear) was introduced to the public during the 14.July 1939 parade. After some changes during the 1800's in head gear including different covers and the introduction of sun helmets the regulation dark-blue with red top kepis were mostly worn. Khaki covers were introduced mainly to preserve the blue and red colors and those became whitish through the bleaching by the sun and the many washings. Some units wore white summer uniforms with which white covered kepis were worn. With winter uniforms troops reverted to the base blue/red kepis . Gradually the white covered kepi was introduced and by the summer of 1939 generally adopted.

The 13.DBLE following the Narvik operation was based on Great Britain and adopted the khaki beret. But during the 18 June 1945 parade the Kepi Blanc was worn. The 1.REC and the RMLE always wore the Kepi Blanc.

The 13.DBLE while deployed in Indochina still wore the khaki beret except during formal occasions and photos during the Algeria operations also show them in wear.

- The grenade with seven flames. The grenade emblem was reserved to certain elite formations and it was worn by the Legion ssince 1874. Over time it evolved into a grenade with seven flames of which two show them to return.

- Green neck tie. This paricular color scheme was introduced in 1945 by utilising recovered stock.

- Epaulettes. Introduced in different colors to distinguish units on the battlefield. The green and red colors of the Legion were implemented in 1864. Fallen in disuse on two occasions over the years they were adopted permanently as of 1930.

- Ceinture Bleue. The dark-blue wrap around the midriff, is based on the 1882 accessory which was meant to protect against intestinal ailments. It evolved into the present dark-blue color and as an ornament to parade dress.

- Pioneer dress. The leather aprons and the axe being carried go back to Imperial times. The beards worn also have a long history.

Bernhard H. Holst