French Foreign Legion Songs and Marches

Welcome to the list of songs and marches of the French Foreign Legion. The songs are very important within the Foreign Legion. They are perceived as a unifying element that strengthens cohesion and the esprit de corps of the unit. Learning songs during basic instruction also helps teach fresh volunteers the French language. By the end of the four-month basic training, the young legionnaire is able to sing at least 8 to 10 marching songs.

Each of the linked regimental or marching songs has its own page including a few pieces of information, a videoclip, and lyrics.

 

March of the French Foreign Legion

The official march of the Foreign Legion is played at every Foreign Legion ceremony, to keep the rhythm of the marching units. The march is performed live, by the Foreign Legion Music Band, or by audio recording.

  • March of the French Foreign Legion: Le Boudin

 

Regimental Marches of the French Foreign Legion

The regimental songs are sung at every regimental ceremony. All legionnaires are expected to stand at attention and sing. The regimental song is sung without music. A short introduction, called “giving a tone”, permits all to stand and start to sing.

 

French Foreign Legion Songs: 1831-1939

The marching songs are sung when slow marching in formation, at least at the platoon level. They are performed during public military parades, as well as when moving within the military base, for a lunch for example. During official ceremonies or unofficial joint events, the marching songs can be also performed when standing in place. The marching songs are sung without any music. They are always performed with a short introduction, called “giving a tone”, to permit all to tune their voice and start to sing.

 

French Foreign Legion Songs: 1940-1954

 

French Foreign Legion Songs: 1954-62

 

French Foreign Legion Songs: 1962-present