France legion year 1942 MNH** stamps
The French Foreign Legion played a significant role during World War II, particularly in the early stages of the conflict. Here are some key points about the Legion’s involvement:
- Norwegian Campaign (1940): During the German invasion of Norway in April 1940, the French Foreign Legion participated in the defense of Norway alongside British, French, and Norwegian forces. Despite their efforts, Norway ultimately fell to the Germans.
- Battle of France (1940): The Legion fought valiantly in various battles during the Battle of France, including the defense of the Maginot Line and engagements in Belgium and northern France. Despite their bravery, the overwhelming German offensive led to the defeat of France, and many Legionnaires were captured or killed.
- Free French Forces: After the fall of France, some members of the French Foreign Legion chose to continue the fight against the Axis powers by joining the Free French Forces under General Charles de Gaulle. These Legionnaires fought in campaigns in North Africa, the Mediterranean, and eventually in the liberation of France.
- North Africa Campaign: The French Foreign Legion played a significant role in the North Africa Campaign, particularly in the Western Desert Campaign against the Axis forces in Libya and Tunisia. Legion units fought alongside British and Commonwealth forces in battles such as Bir Hakeim and El Alamein.
- Italian Campaign: Legion units also participated in the Allied invasion of Italy, fighting in the grueling battles against German forces as the Allies pushed northward from Sicily.
- Liberation of France: Legion units took part in the liberation of France in 1944, fighting in the campaign to liberate Corsica and later participating in the battles to liberate southern France and advance into Germany.
