Armenian Legion facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Armenische LegionArmenian Legion |
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Patch of the legion
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| Active | 4 July 1942 – 8 June 1944 |
| Allegiance |  Nazi Germany |
| Branch |  German Army |
| Size | 11,600 – 33,000 |
| Engagements | World War II |
| Commanders | |
| Ceremonial chief | Drastamat Kanayan |
The Armenian Legion was a special military group. It was also called the Armenian Battalion. This unit was part of the German Army during World War II.
Most of its soldiers were Armenians. They had been captured by the German forces. These Armenians were originally part of the Soviet Army. General Drastamat Kanayan was their commander.
Contents
What Was the Armenian Legion?
The Armenian Legion was a unit formed in 1942. It was part of the German Army, known as the Wehrmacht. This group was made up of soldiers from Armenia. Many of them had been prisoners of war.
They were captured during the fighting on the Eastern Front. This was a major battle area in World War II. The German forces then recruited them. They joined the Armenian Legion to fight alongside the Germans.
Why Was the Legion Formed?
During World War II, many soldiers were captured. The German forces created special units. These units included soldiers from different countries. The Armenian Legion was one such unit.
It was formed to help the German war effort. The soldiers were trained and equipped by the German Army. They served in various roles during the war. The legion was active for about two years.
Where Did They Fight?
The Armenian Legion mainly fought on the Eastern Front. This was where Germany fought against the Soviet Union. The battles there were very intense.
The legion also served in other areas. Some units were sent to France. They helped guard the Atlantic Wall. This was a line of defenses along the coast.
When Did the Legion Exist?
The Armenian Legion was created on July 4, 1942. It was active for almost two years. The unit was officially ended on June 8, 1944. This was near the end of World War II.
The size of the legion changed over time. It had between 11,600 and 33,000 soldiers. These soldiers were all of Armenian background.
Related pages
See also
In Spanish: Legión Armenia para niños
