World War II was a time of immense turmoil and strife, not just for countries and their troops but also for the culture surrounding the conflict. Amidst the darkness of war, humor often served as a coping mechanism for soldiers. Nicknames, in particular, became an important part of camaraderie and morale. French soldiers during WWII were not immune to humorous monikers that lightened the seriousness of their circumstances. In this article, we explore some of the very hilarious nicknames that French soldiers earned during this tumultuous period.
- Les Poilus: While not exclusively a WWII nickname, “Les Poilus” translates to “the hairy ones.” This term originally referred to French soldiers in World War I but carried over into WWII, often used lightheartedly among the troops who took pride in their rugged appearances, despite their circumstances.
- Les Crêpes: Based on the beloved French pancake, this nickname poked fun at the perceived flimsiness of some soldiers. It became a term of endearment for those who might have displayed a more delicate demeanor, reminding everyone that even the most serious soldiers could have a soft side.
- Les Grenouilles: Meaning “the frogs,” this cheeky nickname references the popular stereotype of French people being great frog eaters. Soldiers would use this term to break the ice, laugh at themselves, and foster unity among their platoons, all while embracing their national identity.
- Les Froussards: American troops often teased their French counterparts by calling them “froussards,” or cowards. The playful name was meant in jest, as these soldiers certainly made remarkable sacrifices throughout the war. This light-hearted jab was a way for American soldiers to connect with their French allies.
- Les Escargots: Translating to “the snails,” this nickname humorously highlighted the slower pace at which certain French troops operated during the war. It became a playful jab among soldiers who often found themselves stuck in challenging situations, reminding them that even in adversity, humor was essential.
- Les Baguettes: A light-hearted and affectionate nod to one of France’s most iconic foods, this nickname was often given to soldiers who were particularly thin or lanky. It emphasized a camaraderie based on shared meals and the joy of French culture, even in the direst circumstances.
- Les Rats de Ville: Meaning “city rats,” this nickname was used for soldiers who hailed from urban areas as opposed to their countryside counterparts. While it could be seen as an insult, it was often thrown around lightheartedly among friends, reminding everyone that soldiers came from diverse backgrounds.
- Les Napoléons: Named after the infamous emperor, this was used for soldiers who exhibited overly ambitious or aggressive tactics in battle. The name served both as a jest about their ego and an encouragement to be more strategic and careful in their approaches to combat.
- Les Bûcherons: This translates to “the lumberjacks,” and it humorously highlighted the physicality of some soldiers who were particularly robust and strong. It was used to create a strong image of valor and camaraderie among the troops, varying in attributes from stealth to brute strength.
- Les Bidons: In French, “bidons” means “cans,” and soldiers sometimes joked that it described their repetitiveness. It was a self-deprecating way for soldiers to acknowledge the sometimes monotonous and tedious realities of being a soldier on the front lines.
While these nicknames are steeped in humor, they also reflect the resilience and camaraderie that defined the relationship among French soldiers during WWII. The ability to poke fun at oneself and one’s circumstances has always been a vital part of military culture, and these catchy monikers serve as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, laughter and friendship can flourish. The stories carried forward by these nicknames encapsulate the spirit of a nation and its citizens who faced adversity, fought valiantly, and didn’t forget to bring some levity along the way.