The foreign legion : men without a past

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  • Опубліковано 7 кві 2019
  • We followed these elite soldiers who have come from all over the world to serve France. For Droit de Savoir” he filmed these Foreign Legion new recruits during the different stages of training in Djibouti, in Guyana and also during the violent operations in the Ivory Coast. From a series of warning shots at a column of vehicles led by the Ivory Coast president’s rebels in power to the training sessions in the Guianese equatorial forest or in the Djibouti desert, the most dangerous and hazardous missions are the ones given to these “men without pasts.” Eighty percent of these trainees successfully complete the training compared to only 50 percent among soldiers of the regular army. Considered as one of the best professional troops of the French army, the Foreign Legion is conceived to deal with the high risk missions where the probability of losing soldiers is highest. This is also the only army unit where men have the right to a second chance no matter what their past. An exceptional document which testifies to the reality of ground combat, and where the adversity and danger lived through together create a durable cohesion.” -
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 3,5 тис.

  • @SE10GREENWICH
    @SE10GREENWICH 5 років тому +2776

    Recruiting officer: "Why do you want to join the legion?"Recruit: "To forget"Recruiting officer: "To forget what?Recruit: "I forgot"

    • @vitor4944
      @vitor4944 4 роки тому +36

      HAHASHAHAHAHAHAHAHHAHA

    • @brandoneiger
      @brandoneiger 4 роки тому +40

      @Andrew Layton And I bet perhaps 1 in a million actually get that joke.....Monsieur Chacal. Better luck with Biden lol.

    • @toreforbergchristoffersen4740
      @toreforbergchristoffersen4740 4 роки тому +1

      ⁰æ (0år siden av meg

    • @josephbingham1255
      @josephbingham1255 4 роки тому +43

      Maybe escaping a marriage more torturous than the Legion :)

    • @cofishfinder7269
      @cofishfinder7269 4 роки тому +35

      brandoneiger....why do you assume everyone on UA-cam is American? You’re not American but you assume everyone else is? You must not be American since you’re saying”good luck with Biden” as if you don’t have to deal with that if it comes to fruition. And wtf does the president of the US have to do with this comment? You’re a moron

  • @MrRealLemons
    @MrRealLemons 3 роки тому +446

    "So why are you here, you have no problems?" That pretty much sums the legion up, amazing stuff.

    • @Cooltea1983
      @Cooltea1983 3 роки тому +2

      he he he

    • @mate0107
      @mate0107 3 роки тому +7

      It is also kind of a trick question, too.

    • @QuizmasterLaw
      @QuizmasterLaw 2 роки тому +1

      "You need a new identity" I DID NOT DISAGREE.

    • @je-freenorman7787
      @je-freenorman7787 2 роки тому

      The Religion?

    • @je-freenorman7787
      @je-freenorman7787 Рік тому

      @@fabs8498 The Romans will Re-legion you over and over and over and over lol To Row is To Move. All we need is the truth. Humans do not follow religion and we do not require governance

  • @ShaunPrince
    @ShaunPrince 7 місяців тому +45

    I worked with a man who did his 5 years in the legion, he was the most helpful and supportive person I've ever met.

  • @serbonkers4130
    @serbonkers4130 Рік тому +292

    I trained with these guys when I was in the Marine Corps. They thought we were badass, we thought they were badass. They are a unique tough group of men, all of whom come from unique and at times, dark pasts. Lots of them need this opportunity and it's a hard road ahead. They train hard and they get little rest and nourishment. Even met an American who joined them. I have nothing but respect for the French Foreign Legion.

    • @geezerp1982
      @geezerp1982 Рік тому +10

      "They are a unique tough group of men" yer you right, they are called traitors

    • @unhumanized
      @unhumanized Рік тому +12

      @@geezerp1982 what?

    • @geezerp1982
      @geezerp1982 Рік тому

      @@unhumanized are you thick ?

    • @B-26354
      @B-26354 Рік тому +5

      ​@@geezerp1982 what?

    • @M-L450
      @M-L450 Рік тому

      Recycling Terrorists, French Legions, ISIS Legions... Scum bag Legions...

  • @jeanmeslier9491
    @jeanmeslier9491 4 роки тому +788

    Meillicoff (sp?), crossed 7 or 8 international borders on one visa.
    Rest of the world: illegal immigrant
    Foreign Legion: shows initiative

    • @alley-man0557
      @alley-man0557 4 роки тому +89

      He’s literally joining the foreign legion and not to take advantage of French welfare systems, but to serve . some immigrants can volunteer in the US military for citizenship it’s not a streamlined process like this. No one has issues with immigrants even illiegals as long as they work but you can’t guarantee that so rules are rules and they need to be enforced

    • @Daniel-px8uf
      @Daniel-px8uf 4 роки тому

      😂😂 gold

    • @huguesroland6308
      @huguesroland6308 3 роки тому +30

      That's the legion. Doesn't matter what you have done before. Show you are tought, disciplined and ready to die for France and "here you are".
      Some of them became French and paid it by price of blood.

    • @huguesroland6308
      @huguesroland6308 3 роки тому

      @A C H xactly!

    • @Philitron128
      @Philitron128 3 роки тому +36

      @@alley-man0557 Oh man that's where you're wrong. Right wing Americans hate immigrants both legal or otherwise. And that has nothing to do with their work ethic lol, Mexicans for example are stereotyped for being hard workers and the president hates them

  • @adamdahl3080
    @adamdahl3080 4 роки тому +1137

    Mad respect to France giving second chance for those guys. A very honourable second chance!

    • @toiletnoob6464
      @toiletnoob6464 4 роки тому +65

      In the past a lot of criminals on the run joined or ex mercenaries.

    • @kevinkocher9347
      @kevinkocher9347 4 роки тому +57

      @@toiletnoob6464 that's how the legion was formed in the first place the first enlisted of the legion were house guards or mercenaries and many were roaming soldiers from other nations and jailed repeat criminals but they were separated into true enlistment regiments and penal battalions.

    • @kevinkocher9347
      @kevinkocher9347 4 роки тому +39

      A lot of criminals in the legion today like the documentary says they look the other way. Unless they are crimes of assault, abuse or heavy drugs or murder they will hand you right over to police.

    • @lowtdave
      @lowtdave 4 роки тому +14

      Agreed. Some people change and thank goodness for this chance.

    • @jefflund9134
      @jefflund9134 4 роки тому +22

      a chance to fake your country of origin lol

  • @danny-li6io
    @danny-li6io 2 роки тому +418

    As this proves, many troubled or “wayward” people actually want to better themselves and live a productive and meaningful life. It’s not easy when you’re stuck in a toxic living environment with no structure, accountability, or leadership to get you moving in the right direction. Super proud of these guys for having the courage to change.

    • @johndor7793
      @johndor7793 2 роки тому +10

      Its still nuts though. Being put into very high risk environments doesnt seem like a sensible way to deal with life.

    • @troymacarthur
      @troymacarthur Рік тому +9

      well said. I thought it was cool that the recruiters saw it as an asset that one of the recruits was able to cross a # of borders illegally because he wasn't able to secure a passport. From the footage shown they seem impressed by his tenacity. The recruit ended up looking resourceful combined with being cool under pressure. Whatever else they felt they learned about him in the interrogations also made him a favorable candidate. He risked a lot to be there. It would suck and be totally demoralizing not to get the white hat. I wonder how many guys jump right back in there as soon as they can? I think it would be very interesting to see who makes it, or who crumbles. But its a very cool documentary.

    • @rudolfsykora3505
      @rudolfsykora3505 Рік тому +2

      Yeah, who else would lock in basement trying find cure for cancer,etc ..

    • @monstermegahoschi
      @monstermegahoschi Рік тому +11

      Killing others on behalf on different others is not my way personal betterment.

    • @iancowley_DJ
      @iancowley_DJ Рік тому +3

      The only problem is the people that don't make the cut. They could be on the edge when trying to get in, and the rejection may push them over the edge. But that's life. Getting back up after being knocked down. But this is a pretty big knock down, if you're resting all of your hopes in this future, and you don't get it because of a few mistakes.
      Most of these kids are on the edge, and I hope they make it beyond the rejection and survive in a harsh world. They've made it this far.

  • @alienlife7754
    @alienlife7754 2 роки тому +129

    A friend of mine had an uncle who served in the FFL. Said it was the hardest yet most rewarding thing he ever did.

  • @tomservo5347
    @tomservo5347 4 роки тому +1415

    Impressive that they are able to teach 400 basic vocabulary of French in that time. I suppose hearing it constantly under strenuous conditions you'd probably learn it in a hurry. Definitely the modern day mercenary, but with a fraternal spirit and time honored tradition of service. Respect.

    • @ThePlatypusReturns
      @ThePlatypusReturns 4 роки тому +26

      agreed, these guys are tough and they have my respect

    • @JulixHartley
      @JulixHartley 4 роки тому +47

      I can't imagine learning 4 words a day for 4 months is _that_ hard by itself - if anything it's that they're constantly made to be tired and such that makes it harder to do it. - Though they definitively get great motivation, cause if you suffer all that you don't want to fail just for language... -- Plus it's not just vocab but also grammar.

    • @yaz2928
      @yaz2928 4 роки тому +100

      Not mercenaries. Most don't do it for the money, they want European citizenship or to flee their former lives.

    • @Bagel007
      @Bagel007 3 роки тому +25

      So the thing is, you are not expected to understand, you are to learn by being overwhelmed by the language, you live the language. They will guide you and teach you as you go. Yes it is tough, but the purpose is to also weed out those that can't learn or hold onto the things they are taught.

    • @yaz2928
      @yaz2928 3 роки тому +61

      @Sean Tottenham Absolutely. I just don't get why idiots say they're mercenaries. Real mercenaries make 10x more than Legionnaires just for guarding oil rigs in Africa. The people that join the FFL usually either want to flee their former lives, prove themselves or get an European citizenship (which is hard). Few do it for money.

  • @Baltimoreborn
    @Baltimoreborn 2 роки тому +96

    “My mother threw me out because I did nothing and she had enough of it”! LMFAO

    • @visassess8607
      @visassess8607 2 роки тому +6

      I guarantee he dropped out

    • @Baltimoreborn
      @Baltimoreborn 2 роки тому +3

      @@visassess8607 Yeah that’s a tough school they make you want to earn that title but at least he showed up right lol

    • @roccotoothycombs
      @roccotoothycombs 2 роки тому +4

      At least he was honest. I don't know how you go from playing Russian Xbox and slamming horilka to doing 15km runs in 40c weather immediately, but we didn't know. Maybe he made it.

    • @Baltimoreborn
      @Baltimoreborn 2 роки тому +2

      @@roccotoothycombs Yeah I was in the US Army infantry for a long time and when I arrived I was basically the same person but I made it and I hope this guy did too

  • @Doc_Fartens
    @Doc_Fartens Рік тому +26

    "Mental aptitude of a mollusk" absolutely had me in stitches.

    • @a.e.mendoza
      @a.e.mendoza Рік тому

      lmao got me too. Awesome coverage of their process.

  • @Un_mur_porteur
    @Un_mur_porteur 4 роки тому +637

    "Here no Playstation, here FAMAS" I laughed x)

  • @sagehogan1001
    @sagehogan1001 4 роки тому +335

    Drinking wine mid-march, dreaming of food and smoking; They were meant to be French!

    • @tomservo5347
      @tomservo5347 3 роки тому +9

      The French would mutiny if they didn't get their wine ration. Kind of like the Germans and their beer ration.

    • @angrydragonslayer
      @angrydragonslayer 3 роки тому +27

      @@tomservo5347 or the marines and crayons

    • @BroadSword398
      @BroadSword398 3 роки тому +3

      @@angrydragonslayer lol

    • @voltorb433
      @voltorb433 3 роки тому

      @Frits Bos never too late , wishing and wanting are different things completely.

    • @natemurphy7758
      @natemurphy7758 3 роки тому +2

      @@angrydragonslayer It's a common misconception US Marines like crayons, however, the crayon moniker was given to 10 year old skittles and m&m's in MRE's. 😉🤣🤙

  • @fongy200
    @fongy200 Рік тому +12

    my reason was bieng disharged from the Army for an incident that coost me, so i went to Marseille and signed up after visiting Canns for the film festival.. I served from 1996 - 2005. I loved it.

  • @derekstocker6661
    @derekstocker6661 2 роки тому +111

    Thanks so much for this glimpse into one of the world's elite fighting forces.
    The recruits were absolutely brilliant and hopefully they are all still serving soldiers, very well done lads, I am sure the Legion is very proud of you all.

    • @je-freenorman7787
      @je-freenorman7787 2 роки тому +2

      Where is it?
      All I see are idiots in clown suits

    • @Kamisama77
      @Kamisama77 2 роки тому +3

      Legion sounds like black water of france.

    • @je-freenorman7787
      @je-freenorman7787 2 роки тому

      @@Kamisama77 Roman

    • @stageiii1
      @stageiii1 Рік тому

      Elite ? Hardly.

    • @drakebell6784
      @drakebell6784 Рік тому +20

      @@stageiii1 yes, they aren't nearly as brave as you and I. Fellow keyboard warrior and two time purple shart veteran

  • @peepeepoopoo2535
    @peepeepoopoo2535 3 роки тому +90

    That drill instructor speaks the most brutal french far from the syerotypes we are used to.

    • @impact0r
      @impact0r 3 роки тому +1

      Which one? The Polish, the French or the Spanish one?

    • @peepeepoopoo2535
      @peepeepoopoo2535 3 роки тому +5

      @@impact0r all of them tbh

    • @daddust
      @daddust 3 роки тому +3

      One of them is Polish.

    • @accradata
      @accradata 3 роки тому +10

      @@daddust I was wondering why his boots were so shiny.

    • @QuizmasterLaw
      @QuizmasterLaw 2 роки тому

      i did learn to curse like a mother fucker in more than a half dozen different languages, why do you ask?

  • @lelik0911
    @lelik0911 5 років тому +1315

    Harwood is not an Australian. He is a Kiwi. And that “tribal war dance” is the Haka, which basically everybody in the English or French world would be familiar with (except perhaps the narrator).

    • @Yautah
      @Yautah 4 роки тому +42

      Yep. Us french usually have a little something for them during the Haka... When our team isn't utter garbage, that is.

    • @thibaudduhamel2581
      @thibaudduhamel2581 4 роки тому +137

      As every other recruit, he has a fake identity. He’s not Aussie, nor is his name Harwood. But if he dies while fighting for the legion, he will be remembered as Harwood, the australian.

    • @davemojarra2666
      @davemojarra2666 4 роки тому +44

      He's a paid reader. Doesnt actually know anything.

    • @chrisbrent7487
      @chrisbrent7487 4 роки тому +10

      Lol the narrator is an Aussie. Who knows where the fella comes from. He's likely a Kiwi though I know a few Aussies that are familiar with the Haka.

    • @aaronrokesky
      @aaronrokesky 4 роки тому +5

      hardwood is an australian

  • @svampen7782
    @svampen7782 Рік тому +34

    France: You Crossed the border illegally?!
    The Legion: THIS MAN IS DEDICATED!

  • @pdeforest
    @pdeforest 2 роки тому +59

    My Father was a Legionnaire in WWII. This gave me some insight into his life. He escaped Hungary and volunteered to fight Hitler. His life was tough. I grew up in boot camp. Respect.

  • @scooby1235
    @scooby1235 3 роки тому +96

    I went to the British Legion - it was basically a cheap pint and game of darts

    • @scooby1235
      @scooby1235 3 роки тому

      @Miles Maillet no - in UK. Their were probably charlatans. There all dead anyway, so a moot point. take care canada, one day i will watch hockey there

    • @rogerlephoque3704
      @rogerlephoque3704 3 роки тому

      Help! I can't stop chortling...

    • @sinisterminister6478
      @sinisterminister6478 3 роки тому

      @Miles Maillet The reason our Legion ( Canadian) takes legacy members is because there are not enough veterans to keep it going in a lot of areas.

    • @elbob099
      @elbob099 3 роки тому +1

      Ha

  • @davsaa33
    @davsaa33 3 роки тому +6

    I really enjoyed this! Thank you.

  • @raymondtunez4162
    @raymondtunez4162 2 роки тому +14

    No women or transgender individuals just real men, warrior spirit, comraderie

  • @ARMYEXERCISE
    @ARMYEXERCISE Рік тому +252

    As an American Soldier and a former Philippine Army Soldier, my great advices for any military applicants around the world are:
    1.) Avoid creating unwanted attention. 2.) Observe everything around. 3.) Be a team player. 4.) Don't quit / Never give up.
    May the Lord God bless you and your family always.

    • @Mr_Valentin.
      @Mr_Valentin. Рік тому +5

      The US army accepts foreigners now?

    • @pfdrtom
      @pfdrtom Рік тому +13

      @@Mr_Valentin. It might be different now but when I was in during the late 80s-early 90s people from American territories could join. The Philippines have had their independence from US control for many years but there may still be a way for them to join. Actually, at the same time I met a Russian serving in the American army. How? His folks had escaped the USSR and came to America when he was a child. He was not a citizen but had a resident permit and was allowed to join. Things change and as I said it may be different now. Criteria to join has always been fluid. For instance when I went in you had to be a high school graduate but during the height of the Iraq war they took anyone with a pulse.

    • @nalini7186
      @nalini7186 Рік тому +8

      If you have a green card you earn citizenship by joining so yea most of the military origins are not American unless there’s more native Americans than descendants of immigrants and European settlers

    • @Fallenstartheone
      @Fallenstartheone Рік тому

      you can´t really get around unwanted attention can you ? they either think you are working for the government or a criminal afainoticed.

    • @gowdsake7103
      @gowdsake7103 Рік тому

      Ummm no your dictates are shoot at anything no matter what. Ignore your iron age doctrine but follow its principles and kill anything within range. Panic and loose off all rounds.
      Be a danger to anyone to anyone within range
      America best equipment worst personal!

  • @mentino1556
    @mentino1556 3 роки тому +495

    My Great Grandfather was in the legion and when he came back home after his service and then got recruited into the Hungarian army as well by requirement, he was the most knowledgeable on warfare and weaponry and ended up having to instruct the instructors all the time about the "new technologies" that arrived in the country, technologies that he already used extensively when he was in the legion lol.

    • @UmVtCg
      @UmVtCg 3 роки тому +55

      Not surprising, the sight of those self moving cars without horses and loud thunder coming from blunderbuss boomsticks must have been amazing to your countrymen.

    • @mentino1556
      @mentino1556 3 роки тому +45

      @@UmVtCg it must've been quite the shock yes. i sometimes still see people surprised by them! mostly just the old folk though, banging their rocks and making their cave paintings

    • @RiDankulous
      @RiDankulous 3 роки тому +2

      Was that pre-WW II? It would be cools to know what the Hungarians didn't use that the more modern militaries did at his time.

    • @mentino1556
      @mentino1556 3 роки тому +3

      @@RiDankulous he fought in ww2, so post ww2

    • @RiDankulous
      @RiDankulous 3 роки тому

      @@mentino1556 ah ty!

  • @MAc-zj5cv
    @MAc-zj5cv 4 роки тому +85

    35:53 they are singing Dragostea din tei from O-zone... amazing

    • @muamermalik781
      @muamermalik781 3 роки тому +6

      My gavorite song from middle school..Greetings from Bosnia and Hersegovina near Croatia

    • @muamermalik781
      @muamermalik781 3 роки тому +3

      Greetings Guys from Sarajevo, capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina...
      Where is she now Haiducii and bend O Zone with favorite hit song Dragostea din tei..from 2004..we here at Balkan former Yugoslavia states all likes that song..during our middle schooll..
      Is still active Haiduccii and O Zone?? Thank you Romanian people

    • @partridgestorm
      @partridgestorm 3 роки тому +1

      After focusing and interviewing the guy who is from Romania:
      "Let me sing you the song of my people!"

  • @franksaunders6534
    @franksaunders6534 Рік тому +2

    Great doco! Watched it from start to finish.

  • @JohnXina54
    @JohnXina54 Рік тому +68

    This video makes me remember my time in the army too. Sure it was tough but the bond you gain with your friends in the army is the strongest one you can get. It's truly something every man has to experience

    • @newt2120
      @newt2120 Рік тому +2

      i would but im scared of dying

    • @roboticunclephil
      @roboticunclephil Рік тому +6

      same. i remember kissing the men in my unit, and all of us holding each other nude under the covers after we combined all the bunks into one big bunk

    • @newt2120
      @newt2120 Рік тому +5

      @@roboticunclephil bro wtf....

    • @lray1948
      @lray1948 Рік тому +2

      @@roboticunclephil what unit of what branch was that?

    • @FideszLover15
      @FideszLover15 Рік тому +3

      @@lray1948 the navy

  • @Chaftman
    @Chaftman 3 роки тому +41

    French Legionaire is the best in candidate qualification process... They actually giving 2nd chances for Everyone who determine to be a soldier ... Awesome ...

    • @frankpienkosky5688
      @frankpienkosky5688 2 роки тому +2

      still one of the best ways to shield yourself from your past...famous for that....

    • @kynanverwimp847
      @kynanverwimp847 2 роки тому +1

      For an absolute minimum wage

    • @inthekingdom1996
      @inthekingdom1996 5 місяців тому

      Officer: Ex Girlfriend? Drink or Drugs?
      Soldier: No, I mean I tried like one time in college.. (you know he was a dealer or at least had done his share of partying) 💊

  • @user-ri3tl9qs6p
    @user-ri3tl9qs6p 3 роки тому +73

    I knew one guy coming from the streets in Belarusia, did the legion, moved to french, got a good job moved to switzerland and lives now a much better life with his family than on the country or cities of Belarusia.

    • @QuizmasterLaw
      @QuizmasterLaw 2 роки тому +6

      god so many of my comrades INCLUDING ME got a new very much needed life.
      Fucking salvation through god damned hell.

    • @willyjordan8997
      @willyjordan8997 2 роки тому +1

      He must have a good.lifr Switzerland is great. I'm half swiss, I wanna get a swiss work permit. USA makes us work like dogs for chump Change

    • @trav2190
      @trav2190 2 роки тому

      @@willyjordan8997 thats the whiteman for you

    • @willyjordan8997
      @willyjordan8997 2 роки тому +4

      @@trav2190 Switzerland is a white country tho, correction, that's the JEW for ya

    • @trav2190
      @trav2190 2 роки тому

      @@willyjordan8997 white is white whats the difference?

  • @sibelalbro
    @sibelalbro Рік тому +2

    very moving. very good production. I don't know why it came thru my feed but very glad it did!. vive la légion étrangère française

  • @sparkzy3136
    @sparkzy3136 2 місяці тому +1

    The guy doing the english voiceover for this is incredible. He's not just translating, hes carrying accross the manuaeism and tone of the soldiers into english. Well done

  • @pnwRC.
    @pnwRC. 3 роки тому +6

    EXCELLENT video, that I enjoyed watching from beginning to end!

  • @timsummers870
    @timsummers870 2 роки тому +6

    I'm happy this got recommended to me. I didn't know much about the French Foreign Legion and now I'm a big fan of theirs.

  • @jedwall
    @jedwall 2 роки тому +118

    I done 41 years and a half in the Légion and had Lopez in my squad in Calvi when he was a young légionnaire in the early eighties, i toughed him up and tought him the ropes. Met up with him during stints in Guyane (3°REI) a few times and believe me he was the best they had.
    I believe he was an ex schoolteacher in Spain before giving up his life to the Légion, great guy and one of the Légions best.

    • @frankpienkosky5688
      @frankpienkosky5688 2 роки тому +1

      took a real hit from DeGaulle when they tried to overthrow the govt. of France....

    • @IvanAkinfiev
      @IvanAkinfiev 2 роки тому +1

      How long are you locked into the FFL for?

    • @jmth1974
      @jmth1974 2 роки тому +3

      ​@@IvanAkinfiev I think they mentioned in the documentary that it is a 5 year commitment.

    • @ZolaMagic25
      @ZolaMagic25 Рік тому +3

      @@IvanAkinfiev how long did you watch? 😆

    • @lilbpack2100
      @lilbpack2100 Рік тому

      bruh i read ex school shooter

  • @_ArsNova
    @_ArsNova Рік тому +2

    Excellent documentary. Living embodiment of determination and commitment can transcend cultural boundries.

  • @jonlitch52
    @jonlitch52 3 роки тому +6

    What a great idea and organisation! Give people from all over the world who have want, but no advantages in life, some real career and life! Bravo!!

  • @michaelc.4413
    @michaelc.4413 3 роки тому +6

    Great documentary, They are so dedicated, well done

  • @thegentlemenrat3727
    @thegentlemenrat3727 2 роки тому +5

    This is such an amazing opportunity for anyone who can get in I’m so glad this has always been an option

  • @justjayy24k
    @justjayy24k Рік тому +3

    I've been thinking about Joining the foreign legion for a while now & this upload is a helpful insight, huge credit to anyone that joins wanting to turn their lives around & if there was a second chance saloon here in England I'd already be there without a doubt!

    • @TheRazzletoff
      @TheRazzletoff Рік тому

      I’m from the UK too and also been thinking of joining.

    • @D-Thang_
      @D-Thang_ 9 місяців тому

      @@TheRazzletoff
      Same here, I'm from the Netherlands.

  • @septemberquest6393
    @septemberquest6393 4 роки тому +20

    Wow.. very educational... didn't know too much how this regime operates..I'm an American who served 4 years in the US Army...but I can understand why these young men wanted to be a part of something for their diverse reasons.

  • @johnriley8761
    @johnriley8761 3 роки тому +15

    Damn good job men. A year later these young men are starting their second year I wish them all the very best life has to offer.

  • @janesmith9024
    @janesmith9024 2 роки тому +57

    I remember my mother over 50 years ago telling me about the French foreign legion and still it goes on strong. It is unique because it takes men whatever their past so is utterly accepting as long as you meed the standards.

    • @Woodman-Spare-that-tree
      @Woodman-Spare-that-tree Рік тому +7

      The recruiting officer said he does not take men with serious criminal records.

    • @georgeedward602
      @georgeedward602 Рік тому +6

      @@Woodman-Spare-that-tree That is true today in that you can not be a murderer however if your victim survived they will take an attempted murderer so to speak. You cant be a child molester but beating your wife and abandoning your family is ok. The term serious crime is a little different for them.

    • @TheMellow85
      @TheMellow85 7 місяців тому +1

      Molesting children is worse then murder imo.

    • @resiliencevideos
      @resiliencevideos 4 місяці тому

      @@Woodman-Spare-that-tree eh its not like they'd know what you did in your country.

  • @AwwhHex
    @AwwhHex Рік тому +3

    That one guy saying “I didn’t flinch because the officer did not tell me to move” after such a loud bang was so cold.

  • @rickoshay545
    @rickoshay545 4 роки тому +8

    Good job guys, you've done it!

  • @mdirtydogg
    @mdirtydogg 3 роки тому +3

    Excellent documentary. Thank you.

  • @elizabethbower2168
    @elizabethbower2168 2 роки тому +9

    Extremely interesting documentary… Love the narrators voice

  • @stitchjones7134
    @stitchjones7134 Рік тому +84

    A friend I was in the army with joined. His words were that the Legion was overrun with former Eastern Bloc members who ran the unit like a little Mafia. If you were not one of them, you got shite tasks and poor treatment. Another mate was a legionnaire before enlisting with ADF and copped the 3rd degree from Army recruitment before being allowed to join.

    • @NoEnfo
      @NoEnfo Рік тому

      its just a cult of pu ssies like every other cult in Europe, of course Russians and weird Albanians and French people will be the leaders of that sh!t. Anyone supporting military or violence has to be brain-dead.

    • @thewormemperor
      @thewormemperor Рік тому +6

      That's exactly why you shouldn't form an army with random drifters with shady backgrounds.

    • @emilgustavsson7310
      @emilgustavsson7310 Рік тому

      @@thewormemperor They are the most succesful units in the world. That's why they "are". Sit the fuck down, you have nothing of value to add.

    • @tdb517
      @tdb517 Рік тому +7

      Much like the Wagner group in Russia. They're doing the worst atrocities.

    • @marigeo24
      @marigeo24 Рік тому

      @@tdb517 exactly, this sounds like the same way Islamic militia groups recruit. What could go wrong? Well fuck it, free soldiers for French imperialism. They’ll give passports like candy if you promise to kill for them

  • @Mysucculentchinesemeal
    @Mysucculentchinesemeal 3 роки тому +71

    I never thought the French language was able to be intimidating, but they manage that no problem. This is some intense training. My hat's off to the Legion.

    • @charliesthill4790
      @charliesthill4790 3 роки тому +7

      that's because you don't understand french. when you understand what they are saying then you know what they mean.

    • @Mysucculentchinesemeal
      @Mysucculentchinesemeal 3 роки тому +3

      @@charliesthill4790 you’re right. I speak Spanish though which has a lot in common. I think I’m just used to the harsher sounds of Spanish and there are other aspects of French I don’t understand but I’ve always thought of French as a beautiful language that I would like to learn.

    • @Impl0ze93
      @Impl0ze93 3 роки тому +1

      @@Mysucculentchinesemeal no offense to you but that s a bit expected from a part of people from USA. As if any language couldnt sound agrresive or angry ? I bet Inuit can sound frightening just like italian or japanese or french...

    • @Mysucculentchinesemeal
      @Mysucculentchinesemeal 3 роки тому

      @@Impl0ze93 it’s the accent, it just not as intimidating as say Japanese and most Asian dialects or Spanish. I just haven’t been exposed to French as much as other languages.

    • @goodfella5302
      @goodfella5302 Рік тому

      American’s can’t learn 10 words if you pay them!Always the worst candidate’s

  • @kawirocket88
    @kawirocket88 4 роки тому +189

    As a former Marine(93-97) I was enlisted with a guy who was from France, he served in the FFL, later became a US citizen, then joined the Marine Corps. So Of course, I asked him which was a tougher boot camp the FFL or Parris Island(USMC)? He was very quick to relay the FFL was tougher "physically" but clearly stated the "mind games" on PI were much worse. I couldn't argue with that....

    • @maxkol4380
      @maxkol4380 4 роки тому +19

      I was a Hollywood Marine. San Diego was tougher than Parris Island. We had to do our laundry with Whisk and a scrub brush over a sink. That sucked. You guys at least had a laundry room.lol

    • @kawirocket88
      @kawirocket88 4 роки тому +3

      @@maxkol4380 A record Summer on "The Island" during BWT Week(7/93'). Temps hit 114°,The Humidity, 2 Recruits died, The Swamp, Sand-fleas/mosquitoes\Chiggers, Beach Sand for Roads. Much more gruelling weather wise. However!! I was Stationed on West Coast and the Foothills/Terrain were not a joke!! Much respect for Mt. Mother******!

    • @maxkol4380
      @maxkol4380 4 роки тому +4

      @@kawirocket88 Were you an 03 infantryman? You get to know Mt. Mother (you'll lover her) real good.

    • @kawirocket88
      @kawirocket88 4 роки тому +6

      @@maxkol4380 29 Palms and 0311 is correct 👍

    • @davemojarra2666
      @davemojarra2666 4 роки тому +5

      Im calling bullshit.

  • @sanguinarium1614
    @sanguinarium1614 11 місяців тому +2

    Best example that men from different countries can be brothers and fight together.
    Respect for all these men fight for France

  • @Mark-ml3nv
    @Mark-ml3nv 2 роки тому +16

    The guy who got a visa to Poland and then illegally entered France and the legion can see the courage, resourcefulness and motivation in that. A million miles away from Brexit Britain. Much respect to France.

  • @PaleriderTV
    @PaleriderTV 3 роки тому +91

    Met up with some Legionnaires in Beirut back in the early 80’s when I was a US Marine. Much respect to these guys!

  • @paulmiller3409
    @paulmiller3409 3 роки тому +19

    Some of the nicest guys I've worked with total respect not easy to become a legionnaire

    • @nothanks9503
      @nothanks9503 Рік тому

      Right imagine keeping a straight face while someone is talking at you with a French accent

  • @Quioz
    @Quioz Рік тому +40

    My father once knew a guy who used to be in the foreign legion. He got PTSD so severe that he ended up rebuilding his entire home into a maze and set up cameras all over the house. I don't know what these guys have to go through, but it sure sounds tough.

    • @shiftless1395
      @shiftless1395 Рік тому +6

      i dont know exactly but pretty muc h the foreign legion does all the shit that regular militaries cant or wont do. Really close dangerous combat sometimes in even jungles

    • @rjasontwenty1099
      @rjasontwenty1099 5 місяців тому

      wars are always devastating...

  • @84CORVETTEBILL
    @84CORVETTEBILL 8 місяців тому +1

    Great UA-cam channel out there…..
    A former Navy seal. First and only one they know, is currently in the legion. I highly recommend this man’s channel…
    Just search as former seal joins foreign legion, it’ll come up…. The channel name escapes me right now…really humble dude…as a former navy guy here? I can respect his service and taking personal responsibility for his failings and making some course corrections for the better.
    God bless all! 🇺🇸

  • @edbroaotearoa1198
    @edbroaotearoa1198 3 роки тому +35

    Good on them. Its fantastic that people of all races, nationalities and walks of life get a second chance or want a life less ordinary.

    • @QuizmasterLaw
      @QuizmasterLaw 2 роки тому

      you diddn't exist, you don't exist, and you might not exist.

    • @dumi7427
      @dumi7427 9 місяців тому

      Prost gànditei sunt criminali autorizați care omoara mame copii bunici și oameni nevinovați anomalii deslipiți de viața cotidiană

  • @tonnywildweasel8138
    @tonnywildweasel8138 4 роки тому +6

    Salute from the Netherlands! T.

  • @rickr9936
    @rickr9936 2 роки тому +1

    Excellent documentary about excellent soldiers-

  • @alcoholfree6381
    @alcoholfree6381 6 місяців тому +1

    Impressive; well done and great efforts by these men. May they always serve with honor, dignity, for the betterment of their fellow men and women! I could never have done this at any age.

  • @wanapint
    @wanapint 3 роки тому +11

    Good to see the start hasn't changed, they don't realise how tough it will get. Good luck to those that work hard to get there.

    • @QuizmasterLaw
      @QuizmasterLaw 2 роки тому

      in fact all the people who are clueless get cut at aubagne. everyone at the farm knows exactly what we are in for...

  • @evilborg
    @evilborg 3 роки тому +31

    I met a few French Foreign Legion members and let me tell you those guys are fearless and badass.

    • @nothanks9503
      @nothanks9503 Рік тому

      Fearless to wave the white flag 🏳

    • @nothanks9503
      @nothanks9503 Рік тому

      @@whenisasnakeatail4933 hold on before I read what I said I want you to know I absolutely would I’m a giant who’s been fighting competitively my entire life I once fought 9 people with knives and walked away unharmed with a new knife but most of all I like a good laugh

    • @nothanks9503
      @nothanks9503 Рік тому

      @@whenisasnakeatail4933 oh yeah no I’ll go to Canada right now and say it to a mounty to his face

  • @klaytonpeterson
    @klaytonpeterson Рік тому

    Excellent....well done...Thank you

  • @krystofcisar469
    @krystofcisar469 2 роки тому +2

    I admire their dedication and language skils.

  • @bbd121
    @bbd121 3 роки тому +44

    45:37 If you're not prepared to suffer for France, how can I think you're prepared to die for her.
    Those words were so corny, and so awesome at the same time.

    • @jbarral6509
      @jbarral6509 2 роки тому

      A does it matter if it's corny , what matters only is that you get motivated by words of strength

  • @rizaldepe8299
    @rizaldepe8299 3 роки тому +33

    My big respect and salute to all these future legionnaires they endured the very tough training both mentally/physically.i am so happy that theres a program like this in France giving a second chances to those single individuals in other countries to become a LEGIONNAIRES.

    • @je-freenorman7787
      @je-freenorman7787 2 роки тому

      Soldiers are all idiots
      Who respects those doorknobs still?

    • @frankpienkosky5688
      @frankpienkosky5688 2 роки тому

      special advantages if you have a wooden hand.....

    • @dumi7427
      @dumi7427 9 місяців тому

      Ești fericit ca ești mic și prost dacă ai fi normal ai fi trist de criminali autorizați care fac haos si nedreptate în lume

  • @hrbeta
    @hrbeta Рік тому +1

    Inspiring, very inspiring!

  • @raymondtunez4162
    @raymondtunez4162 2 роки тому +16

    Good training, I was a Marine in the 70’s and our training was similar but not as intense. these guys are hardcore, admire their sprit de’ corps.

    • @markojack15
      @markojack15 2 роки тому

      I was in the SAS and we put these jokers to shame with our training.

    • @trav2190
      @trav2190 2 роки тому +1

      @@markojack15 your a loser

    • @markojack15
      @markojack15 2 роки тому

      @@trav2190 How do you arrive at that conclusion toiletbreath?

    • @visassess8607
      @visassess8607 2 роки тому +10

      @@markojack15 Yeah sure buddy, you were in the SAS...

    • @ytjepool
      @ytjepool 2 роки тому

      Bb a bB moove On.

  • @issoutg3535
    @issoutg3535 4 роки тому +101

    3:40 the guy's sayin "c'est pas la fête du slip" which means "it's not the briefs (underwear) party" and it's more a "don't fuck with us" kind of sentence than "it's not an holiday camp"

    • @Mrdevs96
      @Mrdevs96 3 роки тому +2

      Does everyone in Europe wear speedos ?

    • @GawtSpooks
      @GawtSpooks 3 роки тому +11

      @@Mrdevs96 yes by law

    • @Mrdevs96
      @Mrdevs96 3 роки тому +1

      @@GawtSpooks hmm that's an interesting law

    • @Mrdevs96
      @Mrdevs96 3 роки тому

      @@poussinmoumoute haha glad I can give you a laugh!

    • @juniper617
      @juniper617 3 роки тому

      T.D Gaming Just the men.

  • @Vatoxido
    @Vatoxido 3 роки тому +393

    Basically what a roman legionary would look like in the 21st century. Multicultural, vulgar latin speaking and hardcore.

    • @Gonken88
      @Gonken88 3 роки тому +2

      An idiot?

    • @TalnsScar
      @TalnsScar 3 роки тому +45

      @@Gonken88 I think people from the past are just limited by the technology of their time.

    • @Gonken88
      @Gonken88 3 роки тому

      @@TalnsScar Uhm OK? Interesting input..

    • @ploptart4649
      @ploptart4649 3 роки тому +26

      Barbarian mercenaries are literally my favorite part of every war, ancient to modern.

    • @benaskalinskas4154
      @benaskalinskas4154 3 роки тому +54

      @Space Monkey "our current aryan empire" What country are you even referencing?

  • @fernandoalegria4240
    @fernandoalegria4240 Рік тому +8

    Their most important holiday celebrates a defeat. A defeat they knew was coming, but had promised their deceased Commander that they would never surrender, and would fight to the death. They did.

  • @mikesummers6880
    @mikesummers6880 Рік тому +36

    Served in the Reserves with a guy who was 3 years into his foreign legion paras ,when they wanted to send him to Chad and he said he didn't want to go so he did a runner and stowed away on a boat to Holland and then managed to get back to the UK he said he enjoyed it but just didn't fancy going to Chad.

    • @magpie1999aus
      @magpie1999aus Рік тому +3

      crazy lol

    • @tenakoe4258
      @tenakoe4258 Рік тому +1

      He was as they say a "Bouquet Garni"

    • @tompilkington7379
      @tompilkington7379 Рік тому +6

      Is the French foreign legion. Duh. Didn’t feel like going??? Wtf

    • @jaegermeister1968
      @jaegermeister1968 Рік тому +9

      desertation is not subject to a statute of limitations in the Legion. I wouldn't go to France anymore

    • @paulblacker7333
      @paulblacker7333 Рік тому

      What a wuss!

  • @jefferythomas4414
    @jefferythomas4414 3 роки тому +31

    These Legionnaire's have a look in their eyes I've seen many times in my life. These Men mean business, serious business.

    • @westerling8436
      @westerling8436 3 роки тому +8

      shut up

    • @ninja180700
      @ninja180700 3 роки тому +4

      @@westerling8436 Is everything okay at home, buddy?

    • @westerling8436
      @westerling8436 3 роки тому +2

      @@ninja180700 my parents shout so what's it to you

    • @66kaisersoza
      @66kaisersoza 3 роки тому

      @@westerling8436 😂

    • @ninja180700
      @ninja180700 3 роки тому +4

      @@westerling8436 I can tell. There's better ways to vent your frustration than being mean to random strangers on the internet for no reason.

  • @robertklotz9319
    @robertklotz9319 5 років тому +29

    Great, only being younger and I'd apply right away. An inspiration to stay fit anyway.

  • @thunderwarrior1759
    @thunderwarrior1759 Рік тому +3

    Thank you for an amazing documentary as i now know what my father went through. He and my mother spilt before i was born in 1969 and it was a classic legion story of joining because of a broken heart. I only met him for the first time six years ago after he sort me out knowing nothing of my life. He spent fifteen years in the legion and he married after and i have two brothers from that marriage.

  • @1120PHZ
    @1120PHZ Рік тому +1

    Looking tough and talking about being tough are the most common things about this legend.

  • @Kurios57
    @Kurios57 4 роки тому +35

    Mad respect for all those men, sincerly.

    • @uksepop
      @uksepop Рік тому

      Respect??? They are bunch of voluntary murderers, you prick.

  • @blairansellfraser
    @blairansellfraser 3 роки тому +21

    An Australian in the French Foreign Legion, leading a Haka (New Zealand)....now I have seen everything!

    • @linmal2242
      @linmal2242 3 роки тому +5

      They called him an Aussie, but probably was a Kiwi, and the instructor got it wrong.

    • @TheRealRusDaddy
      @TheRealRusDaddy 3 роки тому +2

      According to another comment he is infact a kiwi

    • @blairansellfraser
      @blairansellfraser 3 роки тому +1

      @Hippity Hoppity Not even close.. was a Maori boy who instigated it. Many Maori boys were in a National team that later went on to known as the All Blacks and the tradition stuck. Given, there was a fascination and appreciation of Maoris in battle, as they always were able to battle against the British locals effectively.

  • @briansvedin1788
    @briansvedin1788 Рік тому +2

    55:25 That is an incredibly humble man

  • @user-rc5iq8yp6r
    @user-rc5iq8yp6r Рік тому +3

    RESPECT DOES NOT GET OLD.

  • @rextransformation7418
    @rextransformation7418 3 роки тому +15

    So much respect for those with so much will power... mad respect.

  • @anishthapa
    @anishthapa 4 роки тому +40

    I thought they were gonna follow those five recruits journey till the end.

    • @nico-zt9od
      @nico-zt9od 4 роки тому +10

      They cant film the whole process

    • @trav2190
      @trav2190 2 роки тому +2

      Just know they made it. Feel sorry for the guy that cant swim hes gonna have to go threw hell once more

  • @boathousejoed9005
    @boathousejoed9005 2 роки тому +1

    That was great.Very interesting.

  • @alphared4655
    @alphared4655 2 роки тому +6

    Had no idea they're basically lost boys. Very good to see them want a better life and fight for it.

  • @Jevgein
    @Jevgein 3 роки тому +43

    Never heard someone scream Bonjour and Croissant so aggressivly.

  • @acosorimaxconto5610
    @acosorimaxconto5610 3 роки тому +10

    Formidable... Vive La Legion

  • @C.Brown5150
    @C.Brown5150 6 місяців тому +1

    Very interesting and informative.. I wasn't very knowledgeable in the duties of the Legion.. And view them as a very honorable and dutie driven unit . I now have a great respect for these men and there service to Country and Self.. From America , with RESPECT.🇺🇸

  • @terrywarner8657
    @terrywarner8657 8 місяців тому +6

    At 2:45 the Senior Corporal or Caporal Chef has UNPROFOR, and Gulf War service by reading his ribbons. A long service soldier returning the favour to the Legion.

  • @noahRKO
    @noahRKO 4 роки тому +4

    really good documentary

  • @jenniturtleburger3708
    @jenniturtleburger3708 2 роки тому +18

    No way that recruit from Kazakhstan was 18. Dude looks like he’s in his 30’s.

  • @atune2682
    @atune2682 Рік тому

    great documentary!

  • @shakeelkacmarsky2573
    @shakeelkacmarsky2573 2 роки тому +4

    So many young folk would benefit from even a 10th of this training .

  • @Mysucculentchinesemeal
    @Mysucculentchinesemeal 3 роки тому +18

    I felt so bad for the guy that got sick. You could tell how much he wanted to finish the course.

    • @silverhorse2010
      @silverhorse2010 2 роки тому +2

      But he did finish the course. In second place, with a recommendation for further training to become a jungle warfare instructor. Great mental attitude. Challenge and perseverance can help an individual to find their own inner strength. That's why the training and selection are hard, It is meant to be.

    • @lotharschramm5000
      @lotharschramm5000 2 роки тому +9

      @@silverhorse2010 no second place was an other guy. Both were asians but come on man

    • @nothanks9503
      @nothanks9503 Рік тому

      I fractured my neck at boot camp smh ties for my worst injury with broken ribs your neck is always being used even when laying down your still holding weight with it ribs is almost as bad you can stay perfectly still but breath it hurts laugh or use the bathroom it hurts bad cough Jesus don’t cough you can die
      Fun fact I broke my ribs with mild untreated asthma it’s almost never an issue but apparently my breathing muscles tense up sometimes and it broke my ribs once

  • @garvinhooper
    @garvinhooper 3 роки тому +31

    in 1960 -1962 was stationed in Germany talked to an older German guy that was in the German army in WW2,for some reason he joined the Foreign Legion at the wars end and fought in Viet Nam very interesting man to talk with,he lost fingers in battle and had a terrible scar on his face from a Viet Min bayonet he said

    • @daddust
      @daddust 3 роки тому +7

      That guy was probably ex SS

    • @QuizmasterLaw
      @QuizmasterLaw 2 роки тому +3

      lots of ww2 germans joined the legion but damned few as in none by my time

    • @onlinecommentator2616
      @onlinecommentator2616 2 роки тому +1

      @@daddust Not quite true actually. Mostly men from Wehrmacht, most SS were put in jail or stayed home in Germany.

    • @ostreaedulis5173
      @ostreaedulis5173 2 роки тому +2

      @@onlinecommentator2616 Quite wrong, some SS prisoners were proposed to join the legion and recovering their freedom.

    • @onlinecommentator2616
      @onlinecommentator2616 2 роки тому

      @@ostreaedulis5173 Some, not most. The Legion of the 50s was not filled with SS men.

  • @smbutte
    @smbutte 2 роки тому +4

    What an informative and well-documented story. My sincere appreciation to the narrator whose intonation was first class. Viva Legionaire!

  • @reddiver7293
    @reddiver7293 4 місяці тому

    Those ol' boys ain't no pushovers. I actually got goosebumps watching them officially become Legionnaires. What a fine life accomplishment.

  • @jeffreyau9751
    @jeffreyau9751 3 роки тому +6

    35:50 when they start singing "numa numa" gosh what a throwback

  • @TheChannelofaDisappointedMan
    @TheChannelofaDisappointedMan 3 роки тому +16

    Great documentary. The Romanian guy has so much charm!

    • @zepter00
      @zepter00 2 роки тому +2

      Sorry but they don’t take gays 😆

  • @peterfrazer1943
    @peterfrazer1943 Рік тому +16

    As a former Royal Marine, I think most Military Training is similar, apart from small variations that each Country has. The only thing that never changes is loyalty to the men fighting alongside you.

    • @goodfella5302
      @goodfella5302 Рік тому +3

      FFL training is totally different than regular armies!It’s tougher and much quicker!They will make an elite soldier from street bum in less than 6 months and you will learn foreign language faster than any school 😀

    • @nickhker3756
      @nickhker3756 5 місяців тому

      Second that, served nearly 30 years ago and each are still my brother.

  • @user-jn2gg4dp6f
    @user-jn2gg4dp6f 6 місяців тому

    Your reaction to that unexpected twist had me laughing out loud. Priceless!

  • @reignalynn
    @reignalynn 5 років тому +26

    Very nicely narrated, and good bunch of soldiers