French Foreign Legionaire, R.M.L.E. WW1 1914-18
The Marching Regiment of the Foreign Legion (RMLE) was a distinctive French military unit that served in both World War I and World War II. Initially formed from regiments in Algeria, it later became the 3rd Foreign Infantry Regiment (3e REI). During World War I, it operated on the Western Front as part of the French Foreign Legion fighting heroically and earning numerous awards. After the war, it was stationed in Morocco and underwent several name changes, ultimately becoming the 3e REI (Infantry).
As per the standard practice, regiments in the Foreign Legion, like all others, adopted the horizon blue uniforms starting from the spring of 1915. However, a significant change occurred in October 1915 when the Foreign Legion underwent reorganization, consolidating into a single regiment known as the RMLE (Marching Regiment of the Foreign Legion). During the winter of 1915-16, they switched to mustard-colored uniforms, similar to those worn by soldiers in Africa, deviating from the horizon blue attire. It was during this period of wearing mustard-colored uniforms that the Foreign Legion achieved distinction and glory.
My character study, based on a period illustration necessitated changing the patina of the bright mustard colour of the Sideshow Collectibles uniform. Extensive fabric painting and weathering in acrylic was carried out on all the original gear. The Y-straps, waist belt and Lebel rifle sling were customised from leather and weathered. Cup is from BattleGear Toys.
This figure is part of a series of ongoing projects to refresh my old Sideshow Collectibles WW1 figures in my personal collection.
