French Expeditionary Corps
The French Expeditionary Corps (Corps Expéditionnaire Français) was a significant military formation that participated in various conflicts during the 20th century, most notably in World War II. Here are key details about this unit:
World War II:
The French Expeditionary Corps was particularly prominent during the Italian Campaign of World War II:
- Formation: It was formed under the command of General Alphonse Juin, who took over in November 1943. The corps was composed of units from the Free French Forces and later included colonial troops from North Africa.
- Composition: The corps comprised French, Algerian, Moroccan, Tunisian, and Senegalese soldiers. Notably, the Goumiers, Moroccan mountain infantry, played a crucial role in the mountainous terrain of Italy.
- Engagements:
- Monte Cassino: The Corps was instrumental in the final assault on Monte Cassino in May 1944, where they helped break through the Gustav Line, a formidable German defensive position.
- Battle of Rome: After Monte Cassino, the Corps advanced towards Rome, contributing to the liberation of the city on June 4, 1944.
- Gothic Line: They participated in the offensive against the Gothic Line in the latter part of 1944, aiming to drive the Germans out of Italy.
- Legacy: The French Expeditionary Corps was recognized for its bravery and effectiveness, with units like the French Foreign Legion and the Goumiers gaining particular renown.
Post-War:
After World War II, the French Expeditionary Corps was involved in:
- Indochina War: Elements of the Corps were part of the French Union Forces fighting in Vietnam against the Viet Minh from 1946 to 1954.
- Algerian War: The Corps was also deployed during the Algerian War of Independence (1954-1962), where it faced challenges both on the battlefield and in terms of political and military strategy.
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