Spanish Foreign Legion

Introduction to the Spanish Foreign Legion

The Spanish Foreign Legion, also known as the Legión Española, is a unique and prestigious unit within the Spanish Army. Founded in 1920, it was modeled after the French Foreign Legion, with the primary goal of providing a chance for foreign nationals to serve in the Spanish military. The legion has a long and storied history, having fought in various conflicts, including the Rif War, the Spanish Civil War, and more recently, in international peacekeeping missions.

History and Origins

The Spanish Foreign Legion was created on January 28, 1920, by Royal Decree, with the objective of recruiting foreign volunteers to fight in the Rif War in Morocco. The legion’s first commander was General José Millán-Astray, a veteran of the Spanish Army who had been inspired by the French Foreign Legion. The legion’s early years were marked by intense fighting in Morocco, where they earned a reputation for bravery and sacrifice. The legion’s motto, “Éspañoles por honor, legionarios por fe” (“Spanish by honor, legionnaires by faith”), reflects their commitment to the Spanish nation and their unique esprit de corps.

Organization and Structure

The Spanish Foreign Legion is organized into several tercios (regiments), each with its own unique history and traditions. The legion is headquartered in Ronda, Málaga, and has bases in various parts of Spain and abroad. The legionnaires are trained in a variety of skills, including infantry tactics, parachuting, and special operations. The legion’s structure is designed to promote camaraderie and esprit de corps, with a strong emphasis on discipline, hard work, and self-sacrifice.

Selection and Training

To join the Spanish Foreign Legion, applicants must meet certain requirements, including being between the ages of 18 and 35, passing a physical fitness test, and undergoing a rigorous selection process. The selection process includes a series of physical and psychological tests, as well as a background check. Once selected, recruits undergo a grueling training program, known as “depósito de reclutas”, which lasts for several months. The training program includes instruction in Spanish language and culture, as well as military skills and tactics.

👊 Note: The Spanish Foreign Legion is known for its tough training program, which pushes recruits to their limits and beyond. Only a small percentage of applicants are accepted into the legion, and even fewer complete the training program.

Operations and Missions

The Spanish Foreign Legion has participated in various military operations and missions throughout its history, including: * The Rif War (1920-1927) * The Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) * The Ifni War (1957-1958) * International peacekeeping missions in Bosnia, Kosovo, and Afghanistan The legion has also been involved in humanitarian missions, such as disaster relief and search and rescue operations.

Culture and Traditions

The Spanish Foreign Legion has a unique culture and set of traditions, which reflect its history and values. The legion’s uniform and insignia are distinctive, with a green jacket and a white kepi being the most recognizable symbols. The legion also has its own music and folklore, including the famous “Canción del Legionario” (“Legionnaire’s Song”). The legion’s esprit de corps is strong, with a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose that binds legionnaires together.

Tercio	Headquarters	Motto
Tercio Gran Capitán	Ronda, Málaga	"Éspañoles por honor, legionarios por fe"
Tercio Duque de Alba	Cerro Muriano, Córdoba	"Aut nunquam tentes, aut perfice"
Tercio Don Juan de Austria	Viator, Almería	"Sine qua non"

In summary, the Spanish Foreign Legion is a unique and prestigious unit within the Spanish Army, with a rich history and culture. From its origins in the Rif War to its current role in international peacekeeping missions, the legion has earned a reputation for bravery, sacrifice, and camaraderie. Whether you’re interested in military history, culture, or adventure, the Spanish Foreign Legion is definitely worth learning more about.

The Spanish Foreign Legion’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of soldiers and civilians alike, with its values of honor, loyalty, and self-sacrifice remaining as relevant today as they were when the legion was founded. As the legion looks to the future, it remains committed to its mission of defending Spain and promoting peace and stability around the world.