French Chasseur Forestiers

By Crusader1307

The French National Army developed a Forestiers Unit using the Chassesur pattern around 1875. These were former and current Forest Ranger and Licensed Hunters who had specialized knowledge of many Forested and Mountainous Regions. These Soldiers were Expert Map Readers and Makers – as well as Navigators and Guides. Many of The Chasseurs Forestiers would become Scouts within The National Army. They were also trained to be effective Light Infantry Soldiers. The Forestier also “doubled” (to a degree) as Sappers and provided cut wood to The Army for their use. The Forestiers were noted for their solid, Dark Green Uniform Coats and Silver Trim.They were armed with Carbine, Small Sword, Bayonet, Hunting Knife and Axe. The Belgium Army also adopted a form of Forestiers. After 1924, the use of specialized Forestiers ceased and the last Battalion was disbanded.