Unit History

The Free French Forces, led by General Charles de Gaulle, were formed after the fall of France in 1940 as a symbol of resistance against Nazi occupation and the Vichy regime. Composed of French soldiers, colonial troops, and volunteers from across the French Empire and abroad, they fought alongside the Allies in campaigns across Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. Notable victories included the North African campaign, the liberation of Corsica, and their vital role in the invasion of southern France in 1944. By the end of the war, the Free French had grown into a formidable fighting force, helping to liberate Paris and reclaim France’s independence. Their determination not only restored France’s honor but also ensured the nation had a seat at the table among the victorious Allied powers.

Our Vision

Our vision in reenacting the Free French is to capture the spirit of resistance that defined their struggle against occupation. We primarily portray armed civilians—ordinary men and women who took up weapons to fight for their country’s freedom. Beyond uniforms and equipment, we dedicate ourselves to learning the customs, culture, and daily life of wartime France, so that our portrayals feel authentic and respectful. We also study and practice the guerrilla tactics employed by the Free French, from ambushes and sabotage to intelligence gathering, reflecting how they waged war in the shadows. Through this approach, we strive to honor the resilience of the Free French while educating the public on their crucial role in Allied victory.

Equipment:

Leadership Contacts

If you’re interested in yelling "Vive la France!", we encourage you to reach out to our leadership team with any questions. Whether you’re curious about requirements, events, or the commitment involved, our staff is happy to guide you. Don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re always eager to welcome dedicated reenactors who want to help keep this history alive.