The Legionnaire’s Career Path

“Success belongs to those who apply themselves.”

The 4th Foreign Regiment (4e RE) in Castelnaudary is the forge of the French Foreign Legion. It trains most of the Legion’s soldiers and non-commissioned officers. Every legionnaire passes through this regiment at different stages of his career. The 4e RE offers a wide range of military and technical training programs.

The journey starts with basic general training. Enlisted soldiers first complete the Initial General Training (FGI) and the Elementary General Training (FGE). Later, future NCOs continue with higher-level courses such as FG1, FG2, and FG3. The regiment also includes a driving school where legionnaires can earn a military driving license.

Training of the Enlisted Legionnaire

Once recruited, a new legionnaire joins the 4e RE for a four-month training program. It includes one month of field work and a demanding hardening phase. The highlight of this stage is the “Marche Képi Blanc”, where the soldier receives his famous white képi after four weeks of effort.

This first step is not only about combat training. It also teaches discipline, teamwork, and adaptation to life in France. The goal is to build resilience and unity among recruits.

Technical and Specialty Training (FTS)

After joining an operational regiment, each legionnaire learns a specific trade through Technical Training of Specialty (FTS). Depending on the role, one or two courses are required. Each lasts between two and four months.

The most common specialties include:

Human Resources and Administration
Hotel and Catering Services
Maintenance and Logistics Support
Operational Infrastructure
Information and Communication Systems
Combat Support Operations

Some soldiers choose advanced or long-term FTS programs that last up to fifteen weeks. Every legionnaire must also learn to swim, as swimming is part of their physical and professional training.

Advancement and Leadership

To become a corporal, a legionnaire must complete the Elementary General Training (FGE). This two-month course, run by the cadre instruction company at the 4e RE, prepares him to lead a small team. Once promoted, he begins to take on more responsibilities.

After about three years of service, a corporal can move forward in two main directions.

1. Continue as an Enlisted Soldier

He can earn the Technical Qualification Certificate (CQT), proving his growing expertise. Later, around the sixth year of service, he may reach the rank of Corporal-Chief.

2. Become a Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO)

He can also aim for leadership. By completing the First-Level General Training (FG1) and his specialty course, he receives the First-Level Military Certificate (BMI 1). With strong performance and dedication, promotion to NCO rank is possible after about twelve years of service.

A Continuous Path of Excellence

From the moment he earns his white képi to the day he becomes a sergeant, a legionnaire grows through effort, discipline, and continuous learning. Each stage — from basic combat to advanced technical instruction — prepares him to serve with precision and courage in any situation.