At the Foreign Legion’s booth, the recruitment station leader answers all questions: “How does the selection process work?”, “What are the specialties?”. From 10 AM to 6 PM, visitors came and went at the 1st Employment Forum.
Some left satisfied, others somewhat disappointed. For Mikaรซl, a 21-year-old young man, joining the legion seems like a good idea. “I have been looking for a job in Nice for a month. I am tempted by this career path.” Being hyperactive since his youth, he was drawn to this profession where both physical and mental endurance are severely tested. Itโs a radical change from his previous job in the restaurant industry. Dynamic, he shows a real need to be on the move. “I can’t sit still for a minute! I’ve been thinking about applying for a while. Itโs not a decision to be taken lightly. The information provided to me at this job forum will be useful.โ
Documenting and informing is precisely the purpose of the recruitment station leader. He explains: “This forum is not an opportunity for soliciting. Our goal is not to find as many future legionnaires as possible. It is essential that interested individuals know what to expect.” Selection in 15 days, five-year contracts, life upheavals, … These are serious considerations. According to this officer, “This profession is suitable for those who have a taste for adventure and who have no ‘official’ sentimental attachments. They must also have significant cultural knowledge.” And as proof, with nearly 8000 applications per year, the legion can only offer about 1000 positions on average. “That’s why the level required for the tests is high, even though no diplomas are necessary.”
On the agenda: medical, physical, and psychotechnical tests. But let’s not forget the RISK factor. Abdel, 24 years old, discovered this. He came to get more details, but leaves giving up his plans. “I was interested in this branch because it’s very athletic and I like challenges. But in the end, a legionnaire is required to kill strangers without having the right to choose. I’m not a criminal and don’t want to risk my life. Not for me! I prefer to try my luck in sports education.”
More positively, the recruitment station leader only sees benefits in joining the Foreign Legion. Possibilities include rapid promotion, entitlement to a pension after 15 years of service, and opportunities to travel.
In Nice, there is an information and recruitment post located at the Filley barracks, 2 rue Sincaire, 06300 Nice. Tel: 04.93.80.59.06.
Barbara D
