Old Guard (France)

• 1. Elite Formation Origins

  ›

  In 1804, Napoleon Bonaparte established the Old Guard as a formation of veteran troops within the French Army's Imperial Guard. This unit became the most prestigious formation in his Grande Armée. French soldiers often referred to Napoleon's Old Guard as "the Immortals". Georges Blond noted this title in his book La Grande Armée published in 1997. The selection process for these soldiers was rigorous and based on specific criteria. Candidates had to be under 35 years of age at entry. They needed at least 10 years of service before joining. Some veterans had fought in as many as 12 campaigns. Physical traits played a major role in their selection. Above-average height was a key requirement. Grenadiers had to stand at least six feet tall while Chasseurs required five feet eight inches. Exceptions existed for those awarded the Legion of Honor who faced no height restriction. Awards and veterancy were also taken into consideration when selecting troops. In 1814, the 1st Chasseurs still held many veterans like Sapper Rothier with 21 years of service and two wounds. Private Stoll served 22 years and participated in 20 campaigns. Those too old or crippled were sent to the Company of Veterans in Paris.

• 2. Infantry Regiments And Privileges

  ›

  Four regiments made up the Old Guard infantry: 1st and 2nd each of grenadiers and chasseurs. Members received considerably increased wages from the Imperial Guard compared to regular units. Their distinctive bearskin caps became iconic during conflicts like the Six Days Campaign. Any cowardly tendencies or cautious habits were thoroughly purged through intense training. Advanced bayonet and hand-to-hand combat techniques formed part of their curriculum. The Old Guard earned its fearsome reputation through numerous military engagements of the Napoleonic Wars. Battles included Austerlitz, Dresden, and eventually Waterloo in June 1815. Each member was a highly trained and experienced soldier forming a formidable sight on the battlefield. They fought unlike any other soldier in the French army. Their imposing stature impressed both foes and allies alike. Napoleon famously referred to them as "my children" showing deep devotion between leader and unit. This relationship fostered unique loyalty within the ranks despite harsh conditions they endured together.

• 3. Cavalry Units And Loyalty

  ›

  The Old Guard earned its fearsome reputation through many military engagements spanning decades of conflict. From Austerlitz to Dresden, each battle added weight to their legendary status. Training methods focused on eliminating cowardice while enhancing close-quarters combat skills. Advanced bayonet techniques proved essential during direct confrontations with enemy lines. Their imposing stature combined with rigorous preparation made them appear unstoppable on open fields. Battles like Eylau showcased their effectiveness against heavy cavalry charges. The 1st Polish Lancers demonstrated exceptional skill during mounted engagements across Europe. These units maintained high standards despite constant warfare stretching resources thin. Veterans often carried scars from previous campaigns which served as badges of honor rather than weaknesses. Their presence alone could shift morale among French troops facing overwhelming odds. Commanders relied heavily on their ability to hold critical positions under fire. This tactical reliability became central to Napoleon's strategic planning throughout his campaigns.

  During the Battle of Waterloo in June 1815, the 2e Régiment de Grenadiers-à-Pied played a pivotal role defending Plancenoit against

• 4. Battlefield Reputation And Tactics

  ›

  Prussian forces. The 1er Regiment charged forward protecting field positions around Napoleon himself after Middle Guard attacks failed. Old Guard cavalry attempted unsuccessful midday charges against Anglo-allied infantry lines. They remained unavailable during decisive moments when victory seemed within reach. Despite these setbacks, their final stand became legendary for its bravery and sacrifice. Many soldiers fought until death knowing defeat was imminent yet refusing retreat orders. Their actions delayed enemy advances long enough for other French units to regroup temporarily. Historical accounts describe how they held ground against superior numbers using bayonets and muskets alike. The last squares formed by these veterans represented one final act of defiance before total collapse. Their performance at Waterloo cemented their place in military history despite ultimate failure.

  Napoleon bade an emotional farewell to the Old Guard at the Palace of Fontainebleau following his first abdication in 1814. Many cheered and cried

• 5. The Waterloo Defense

  ›

  as he departed leaving behind years of shared struggle. Louis XVIII ordered the Imperial Guard abolished in August 1815 shortly after Waterloo. By December all regiments were disbanded ending decades of service. Ex-guardsmen ended up scattered across various paths after unit disbandment. Some re-enlisted into the king's army while others lived out lives watched suspiciously by Bourbon police. When Napoleon's body returned to France in 1840 many surviving members paraded wearing threadbare original uniforms. These events marked both an end and a beginning for former soldiers seeking peace or purpose again. Their legacy persisted through stories told by survivors and records kept by historians. Georges Blond documented much of this history in works published decades later reflecting on their impact. The memory of "the Immortals" remained alive even as physical units ceased existing forever.