French soldier recruits on the firing range during World War 1. Two recruits stand as instructors explain operation of the French Lebel rifles set up on rigid tripod stands. Other soldiers stand outside a wall and fire rifles through its openings at targets on the other side, simulating defense of from inside a building. Officer and soldier examine bullet holes in a large target. (WWI. WW1)
Officer dismisses a formation of French Army recruits, who then move quickly towards their barracks. Next scene shows recruits streaming from barracks, in full dress uniforms, to line up in formation. An officer on horseback moves toward the formation of troops, to review them. In next scene, a contingent of recruits marches on a drill field, under direction of a Sergeant and an officer. (WWI. WW1)
French General Pierre Joseph Dubois, commander of the 6th Army, speaks informally with officers in his command prior to their deployment to the front during World War 1. (WWI. WW1)
French Army engineers at work in World War 1. Several maneuver in a small boat at a waterfront. Others manual operate a pile driver to set a post in the water for a dock. Officers look on as a group of Army engineers works to repair a wooden bridge made of many supporting members and cross braces. Change of scene to French engineers strengthening and stabilizing the base of a high bridge over a river. New sequence shows a pier with boats tied up and high water in river behind. Scene shifts to engineers working on a low level bridge over a river. A team of horses pulls construction equipment over the bridge. A bombed out high railroad bridge is seen in the background. (WWI. WW1)
French Schneider CA tanks in operation during the First World War. Tank passes camera. Two World War I French tanks moving towards front line. Rear view of tank moving away with crewman emerging from rear door. The tanks bear painted images of playing card suits: heart, spade, and diamond are seen, indicating to which section of the French Tank Company they belonged.
French troops firing a "French 75" artillery field piece set up in a revetment during World War 1. One soldier holds his ears before the gun is fired. Closeup of recoil as it fires. The gun crew immediately reloads and fires again. Chart displays yearly increased production of these weapons from 1914 through May, 1917. (WWI. WW1)
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