"Late war free french rank insignia" Topic

The free french armored divisions in France used American uniforms. What rank insignia did officers and ncos use on the uniforms? And where were the insignia placed? None of my books show rank and my google fu has failed me.

The answer is "mixed." Where possible, the Free French liked to use c.1940 rank insignia -- so, tab on the front of blouse, similar to current US Army, or on the epaulettes.

Naturally this was not always possible, so there would probably also be US insignia.

Source: the Histoire et Collections book on the Chasseurs d'Afrique, which has may photos of LW troops.

NO!

The French ALWAYS carried french rank insignia over american uniforms. US rank insignia are NEVER found in french units.

Ther were different way to wear them, depending on the rank, the branch of service, the piece of clothing and the "fantaisie".

For officers onto the shoulders, on the shielves, or placed onto the jacket's buttons.

Private and NCO, well … pretty much the same!

Private and corporals, "wool" chevron in the colour of the service.
NCOs, gold or silver chevrons (cavalry/armour) according to the service also.

Also, and as far as possible, french head dresses were kept including képi, service caps, berets, and also helmets.

plenty of images onthe french army's photographic service website. Link:

link

You're 100% correct, Tirailleur corse: I looked more closely at the pix, and what I thought were US chevrons are the 1941 pattern French chevrons. Good catch.

That said, the variety of insignia is incredible!

That website was a huge help, both for uniforms and vehicles. I have a pretty good idea on rank placement on the various uniform pieces now. Thanks guys.