Would the French Foreign Legion accept me if I went AWOL from the US ARMY?

Question

I have less than 2 years left, but i'm fed up and can't get rank or promotion becuase of a DUI.

I love being a soldier and have seriously considered the Legion for about a year now.

I understand the giving up US citizenship, and how the contract works, i just don't want to screw myself over and not get in.

I'm not looking for advice or opinions about anything.

I just want someone who knows to let me know i f the Legion will let me in if i'm AWOL from the US ARMY.

I don't care about rank in the Legion either, i understand its not the same.

They are single (or at least at first) more professional army.

I'm tired of the way the US ARMY is set up, but i really like being a soldier.

Answer 1

Yes, they would, that is the entire point of the French Foreign Legion, and they name change they institute once you pass through their gates. But if I were you I would not go AWOL, because in doing so you are changing your life. When you are done with the FF:L what are you going to do, what about your family? If you decide to re-enter the US you will receive a court martial and prison time, I would not recommend it.

Answer 2

Accept someone who has deserted into the LEGION? You must be out of your mind.
If you'll accept my suggestion- if you really like the job, ask for a different assignement, something which is far more demanding than what you are facing now. Make it plain for everyone and yourself that you're making a fresh start and intend to stick to it no matter what.
In the Legion the highest you can go is sergeant, and it takes way more than a simple 10 year contract to get there. IMO the nearest thing to it in the US Army in terms of demand is Rangers. Also, you'd better be able to speak French within 3 months
Combat is usually small scale but all the time. On the good side - no press. On the bad side, no air support and next to no artillery

Answer 3

Why mess up a good thing? The FFL is the most rigorous and abusive outfit on the planet. And they're French on top of that.

Your chances of advancement in rank as an American turned French is 9:1.

I don't know about giving up your US citizenship, but you can get a French dual citizenship.

Last thing. If you go AWOL, that's desertion. Even if its 50 years from now, if they (the government) ever catch you, you will do time.

Answer 4

I greatly respect your desire to continue your profession.
But, the Legion Etranger is one tough organization. I had the pleasure of working with some LE folks in Africa on HMROs. Their life is Spartan in the most literal sense of the word, very little personal possessions and spare time. Also, they have very low pay, compared to US standards, and almost no benefits.
Your best bet for your future is to gut out the last 24 months (let's face it, you'll be on terminal leave for 30-60 days of that anyway, plus up to 20 days for house hunting job interviews.) You will separate will all your VA benefits-again ain't nothin' like that in the LE. THEN if you wish to join up-you've still got your VA benies behind you.

Answer 5

N O!! Finish your term of service in the US Army,
then ask about joining the French Foreign Legion!!

Answer 6

Just finish the contract and keep your nose clean. You made a deal with Uncle Sam you have to keep it. Wait to joim the Legion when you are done.

Answer 7

just serve your term to be on the safe side.

Just so you know they act like mercenaries, why do you want to join the legion? why not continue to defend your country?

in response to the guy on top of me....they are the french...

Answer 8

I think it would be doubt full. You go AWOL once you will go AWOL again. Don't be a **** up. Finish your term of service.

Answer 9

Would any branch of the Military want another Branch's flunkout??? I doubt it, but why don't you ask them?

Answer 10

Hopefully. Why don't you try and then we'll all know.