Major Gérald: Fundamentals of Close-Quarter Combat with a weapon

In early December 2025, the French Foreign Legion released a new training video on its official YouTube channel featuring Major Gérald, the popular senior non-commissioned officer of the Legion. In this new video, Major Gérald introduces the fundamentals of close-quarter combat with a weapon: specifically, an assault rifle with a fixed bayonet.

For demonstration purposes, he uses the FAMAS rifle, even though operational Legion units have already transitioned to the HK 416. The presentation focuses on key methods that allow a soldier to move safely and effectively in contact situations.

Major Gérald demonstrates several core movements, including the classic techniques of going to the ground, forward rolls, and backward rolls. He explains how these movements help a soldier avoid impacts, shocks, and potential injuries while maintaining control of the weapon. This type of high-quality physical training supports the Legion’s emphasis on toughness and contributes directly to the combat ruggedness expected of every legionnaire.

After a break of several months, Major Gérald returns once again as the instructor. He currently serves as the head of the Sports Office of the 1st Foreign Regiment (1er RE) in Aubagne, the Legion’s headquarters, and is a familiar figure to anyone who follows Legion training content.

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