Minifigure – French Infantrymen (“Les Poilus”) – 1917 Verdun Veterans WWI (LEGO Compatible)

The Figures: WWI French Infantrymen (“Les Poilus”) – 1917 Verdun Veterans

This set represents two soldiers of the French Army during World War I, specifically depicted as veterans of the Battle of Verdun. They are affectionately known in history as “Poilus” (The Hairy Ones), a nickname given to French trench soldiers because they grew beards and mustaches while fighting on the front lines.

1. The French Rifleman (Left Figure) This figure represents the backbone of the French defense.

• Uniform: He wears the iconic “Horizon Blue” (Bleu Horizon) Tunic and Trousers. This pale blue-grey uniform was introduced in 1915 to replace the highly visible red trousers of the early war, symbolizing the modernized French army of 1916-1917.

• Headgear: He wears the M1915 Adrian Helmet (Casque Adrian). It features the distinctive comb (crest) on top and the Flaming Grenade insignia on the front, which is the symbol of the French Infantry.

• Weapon: He holds a brown rifle, historically representing the Lebel Model 1886 or Berthier rifle, the standard service weapons of the French infantry.

• Face: He sports a thick Mustache, a defining trait of the “Poilu” aesthetic.

2. The Veteran / Trench Raider (Right Figure) This figure represents a battle-hardened soldier equipped for specialized tasks.

• Headgear & Goggles: Like his comrade, he wears the Adrian Helmet, but he has a pair of Trench Goggles strapped to the brim. These were used to protect against dust, debris, and sometimes tear gas during assaults.

• Gear: He wears the standard brown leather “Y-Straps” and ammunition pouches. The light blue uniform is heavily detailed with pockets and buttons, accurate to the M1915 coat design.

• Expression: He has a serious expression with stubble, indicating the exhaustion of trench warfare.

3. The Accessories (Historical Artifacts) The image includes two specific printed tiles that provide deep historical context:

• The Certificate (Left): This is a miniature replica of the “Médaille de Verdun” (Verdun Medal) Certificate. The text “MEDAILLE DE VERDUN” is visible. This medal was issued to soldiers who survived the brutal Battle of Verdun (1916), one of the longest and costliest battles in human history. This confirms these figures are “Verdun Veterans” serving in 1917.

• The Poster (Right): This is a replica of a WWI French propaganda poster or postcard, titled “L’INFANTERIE FRANÇAISE DANS LA BATAILLE” (French Infantry in Battle). It depicts a soldier charging, used to boost morale.

Historical Background: By 1917, the French Army had endured immense suffering. The soldiers depicted here are wearing the Horizon Blue uniform that allowed them to blend into the misty skyline of the French countryside. The Battle of Verdun (fought mostly in 1916) became the symbol of French resistance, with the famous slogan “Ils ne passeront pas” (They shall not pass). These minifigures capture the look of the soldiers who held the line against the German offensive.