The most famous military songs

La Marseillaise: The National Anthem

Composed during the French Revolution in 1792 , La Marseillaise became the national anthem of France. This revolutionary song is a call for unity and the fight against oppression. It is played at official events and military ceremonies.

"To arms, citizens! Form your battalions! Let's march, let's march, let impure blood water our furrows!"

The Strasbourg Woman: The Song of Revenge

Composed after the defeat of 1870 during the Franco-Prussian War , "La Strasbourgeoise" evokes the loss of Alsace-Lorraine. It was adopted by French soldiers during the First World War and has been part of the military repertoire ever since.

The Song of the Partisans: The Voice of the Resistance

An iconic song of the French Resistance during World War II , this song was written in 1943 and became a symbol of the fight against the Nazi occupation. It embodies the resistance and hope of the French people during the occupation.

"Friend, do you hear the black flight of crows over our plains, Friend, do you hear these muffled cries of the land that is being chained."

The Legion Marches: Anthem of the Foreign Legion

The emblematic song of the French Foreign Legion , "La Légion Marche," was inspired by German military songs and adapted for the French forces. This song symbolizes the discipline and esprit de corps of the soldiers of the Foreign Legion.

"We not only have weapons, but the devil walks with us."

The Piedmontese: Italian military tradition

This military song, dating from the 18th century, is one of the oldest in the Italian military tradition. It was adopted by the infantry regiments of Piedmont and is still sung at military ceremonies.

"Oh God! How comfortable I am, when I have my sweetheart by my side."

Other Famous Military Songs

• The Song of Departure : Revolutionary song of 1794, also known as the "brother of La Marseillaise".
• Le Boudin : Official song of the French Foreign Legion.
• Verdun, They Shall Not Pass!: Song of the First World War commemorating the Battle of Verdun.
• The Moon Is Clear : Song of the Foreign Legion which evokes the harshness of war and the hope of return.