The Spanish Foreign Legion, Men at Arms 161, Osprey

Although overshadowed by its French counterpart, the Tercio de Extrangeros, 'Regiment of Foreigners' has a rich and eventful history beginning with its formation in 1920. Under the command of LtCol Millán Astray and Comandante Francisco Franco, the Spanish Foreign Legion developed into a formidable force, led by Astray's belief that 'to die in combat is the greatest honour.'

This book examines the main campaigns in which the Legion participated, from Melilla in 1921-23 until its withdrawal from the Sahara in 1976. A wealth of contemporary photographs and colour plates detail the uniforms and insignia of the Spanish Foreign Legion.

Contents:

• The Foundation: October 1920 Melilla
• 1921-23 Xauen and Alhucemas
• 1924-27 Asturias and the National Rising
• 1934-36 Civil War in Spain
• 1936-39 Ifni- Sahara
• 1957-58 End of a Mission
• 1961-76 The Plates

Author: John Scurr