Spanish Foreign Legion, The

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 Lt. Col. 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 honor.' 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 color 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