4th Infantry Regiment (France)
The 4th Infantry Regiment (French: 4e Régiment d'Infanterie; abbreviated 4e RI) is a regiment of the French Army with a long and distinguished history dating back to the 17th century.
History:
The regiment was originally formed in 1636 under the Ancien Régime as the Régiment de Navarre. It participated in numerous conflicts throughout French history, including the War of the Spanish Succession, the Seven Years' War, the French Revolutionary Wars, and the Napoleonic Wars, earning battle honors such as Austerlitz and Jena. During the Napoleonic era, it was part of the Grande Armée and fought in many of Napoleon's major campaigns.
In the 19th century, the regiment served in Algeria and participated in the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1871.
During World War I, the 4e RI saw extensive action on the Western Front, participating in key battles such as the Battle of the Marne, the Battle of Verdun, and the Battle of the Somme.
During World War II, the regiment was mobilized in 1939. It fought in the Battle of France in 1940 before being disbanded after the armistice. The regiment was later reformed as part of the Free French Forces and participated in the liberation of France.
After World War II, the 4e RI served in various overseas deployments, including in Algeria during the Algerian War.
Current Status:
The 4e RI has been reorganized and restructured several times throughout its history. Its current role and composition may vary. Consult official French Army sources for up-to-date information on its current status, location, and mission.
Battle Honours:
The 4th Infantry Regiment has accumulated a significant number of battle honors throughout its history, reflecting its participation in numerous major battles and campaigns. These honors are a testament to the regiment's long and distinguished service. These typically include: (list of significant battle honours to be inserted from authoritative sources if available).