Day of the Battle of Camaron

April 30, Wednesday

The Battle of Camarón Day is celebrated annually on April 30 to commemorate the heroic battle that took place in 1863 between the French Foreign Legion and Mexican troops during the French intervention in Mexico. The day is especially significant for the French Foreign Legion, which celebrates it as a symbol of valor, sacrifice and devotion to duty.

Historical Context
It all began when 65 legionnaires under the command of Captain Jean Danjou were escorting a supply train. Their path was crossed by about 2,000 Mexican soldiers. The legionnaires took up defensive positions in a small building, the Hacienda Camarón. Completely outnumbered, they defended themselves for 11 hours. By evening, the French had run out of ammunition, and the survivors decided to engage in hand-to-hand combat. Of the 65 men, only 5 remained in the ranks. Although the legionnaires suffered a defeat, their heroism made the Mexicans pay tribute. The commander of the Mexican troops even allowed the survivors to keep their weapons.

This day has become part of the traditions of not only the Foreign Legion, but also military history in general. It reminds us how perseverance and loyalty to duty can make a battle legendary, even if the outcome seems predetermined.

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Day of the Battle of Camaron in other years

2021 April 30, Friday
2022 April 30, Saturday
2023 April 30, Sunday
2024 April 30, Tuesday

Day of the Battle of Camaron in other countries

Mexico