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Legiopreneur: Commemorating 161 years of the Battle of Camerone

April 7, 2024

The godmother of our Amicale, Mélanie Antoinette de Massy, was present alongside President Sascha Kunkel and Honorary President Jean-Pierre Bontoux for the 161-year commemoration of the Battle of Camerone on April 30. The event took place in Aubagne, in the Vienot district.

The Camerone Taking-Charge Ceremony

The solemn Camerone ceremony began at 09:45 with an imposing parade of Foreign Legion soldiers, including our flag bearer Aliaksei Androuchkin, symbolizing the heritage and bravery of this legendary unit.

Survivors of the Battle of Diên Biên Phu Retrace the Sacred Way

Among the most moving moments, three survivors of the famous battle of Diên Biên Phu honored the memory of their comrades by walking up the Voie Sacrée. Colonel Bernard Grué, 99, proudly carried Captain Danjou’s wooden hand, an emblematic relic. Accompanied by Major Alfred Helferstorfer and legionnaire 1st class Joseph Bosy, this solemn act was a reminder of the legendary courage and devotion of the Légion Étrangère.

Airborne Tribute to the Foreign Legion

The ceremony ended at 11:45 with the impressive appearance of the historic Noratlas, a military aircraft from the 1950s, followed by the spectacular passage of the prestigious Patrouille de France, which lit up the sky with the national colors of blue, white and red. This was followed by an aubade from the Légion Étrangère, bringing the unique event to a close.

Visit to the Foreign Legion Museum

The afternoon continued with a visit to the Foreign Legion Museum. During the visit, our godmother Mélanie Antoinette de Massy was accompanied by the President of the Amicale Legiopreneur, Sascha Kunkel. It was an excellent opportunity to reminisce about the history of the Légion Étrangère.

The visit also provided an opportunity to explore a significant aspect of history, that which links the Principality of Monaco to the Légion Étrangère. Indeed, Prince Louis II of Monaco, great-grandfather of our godmother Mélanie Antoinette de Massy, had a career as a legionnaire.

After attending Saint-Cyr from 1891 to 1893, the hereditary Prince Louis II was assigned to the 1st Foreign Regiment, then the 2nd Chasseurs d’Afrique, and finally the 3rd, until 1899. He enlisted voluntarily during the First World War, and was assigned to the staff of the 5th Army. In 1919, he was promoted to lieutenant-colonel in the 1st Foreign Regiment, and then colonel in 1921. On April 29 and 30, 1931, Prince Louis II took part in the Légion Étrangère centenary celebrations in Sidi-bel-Abbès. In May of the same year, he was appointed honorary corporal of the 1st Foreign Regiment. In November 1937, Prince Louis II was appointed Honorary Sergeant of the 1st Foreign Regiment. His rise to prominence is a perfect illustration of the deep historical ties between the Principality of Monaco and the Légion Étrangère.

Thanks to General Youchtchenko

It was a great honor for Legiopreneur to be invited by General Youchtchenko to the commemoration of the Battle of Camerone. This battle embodies an emblematic episode in the legendary history of legionnaires, symbolizing courage and solidarity. This annual event gives us a unique opportunity to come together, share precious moments and perpetuate our common heritage.

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Legiopreneur: Foreign Legion pensioners invited to the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters

Melanie-Antoinette de Massy acommpgnée du Président de Légiopreneurs et des pensionnaires

April 7, 2024

Once again this year, the patron of the Amicale Interprofessionnelle des Anciens Légionnaires Entrepreneurs, Melanie-Antoinette de Massy, was keen to perpetuate the tradition by inviting the residents of the Invalides de la Légion Étrangère institution in Puyloubier, which works on behalf of Legion veterans, to the prestigious Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters tennis tournament. This initiative is designed to strengthen the ties between the Principality and the Légion Étrangère, following the white kepi ceremony.

Home of Former Legionnaires

Amicale president Sascha Kunkel was honored to welcome the residents of the Invalides de la Légion Étrangère in Puyloubier. The former legionnaires were escorted to the VIP box to watch the match between Luca Nardi and Alexandre Muller, a decisive match for qualification. This exceptional experience enabled them to fully appreciate the atmosphere of the tournament and the talent of the players on court. After Nardi’s victory, the Legionnaires left the dressing rooms, taking with them unforgettable memories of the match.

Conviviality and exchange at the VIP Lunch

Following the match, the former legionnaires were invited to lunch at the VIP village restaurant by the sponsor of the Amicale Interprofessionnelle des Anciens Légionnaires Entrepreneurs, accompanied by the President of the Amicale. This convivial lunch provided an opportunity for exchanges filled with anecdotes, as well as a moment of respect and unity, reinforcing the strong bonds that unite us.

An Immersion at the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters

After lunch, the boarders had the opportunity to visit the VIP shopping village, accompanied by the President of the Amicale. This visit was a unique opportunity for the boarders to discover the VIP shopping village and soak up the prestigious atmosphere of the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters. Guided by the President of the Amicale, they were able to fully appreciate the unique moments offered by this exceptional event.

Closer ties between the Principality of Monaco and the Foreign Legion

The godmother was keen to perpetuate this tradition in order to strengthen the ties between the Principality and the Légion Étrangère, extending the spirit of the previous white kepis ceremony. By bringing together the residents of the Invalides de la Légion Étrangère and representatives of the Principality at such a prestigious event as the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters, we have consolidated the relationship between these two emblematic entities. This symbolic gesture testifies to our ongoing commitment to honoring and nurturing the historic ties and shared values between the Principality of Monaco and the Légion Étrangère.

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Legiopreneur: A White kepis Ceremony in Monaco’s Place du Palais

Monaco , April 4, 2024

The Amicale Legiopreneur, led by its President, Sascha KUNKEL, was honored to take part on Thursday, April 4, 2024 in the White kepis Ceremony of the 2nd Company of Volunteer Legionnaires of the 4th Foreign Regiment in Castelnaudary, symbolizing the official integration of new legionnaires. The Amicales des Anciens de la Légion Étrangère of Cannes, Nice, Aubagne and Castelnaudary were also on hand to represent the veterans of the Légion Étrangère. The ceremony was marked by a succession of memorable events.

A Prestigious Arrival

The opening of the white kepis ceremony got off to a flying start with the arrival of General Cyrille Youchtchenko at 10 a.m., followed by the arrival of the Pionniers, the Légion Étrangère Band and volunteer soldiers in the prestigious Place du Palais Princier in Monaco. As they arrived, songs were sung, accompanied by an aubade, to pay solemn tribute.

Arrival of HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco at the White kepis Ceremony

The ceremony began solemnly at 11:30 a.m. with the arrival of HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco, accompanied by General Cyrille Youchtchenko, Commander of the Légion Étrangère, marking the start of a respectful event. Speaking to the press, General Youchtchenko underscored the exceptionality of the situation, declaring: “This is the first time that a presentation of white kepis has taken place at the Palace of Monaco. It is a great honor to have attended such a ceremony”. This statement testifies to the historic importance of the event and the honor this ceremony represents for the Légion Étrangère.

The parade was also broadcast on the TF1 news channel, offering a unique perspective on the ceremony. At the end of the parade, Prince Albert II expressed his deep gratitude to the delegations present, underlining the importance of their support and solidarity.

A Departure for the Monte-Carlo Bay

The legionnaires then headed for the prestigious Monte-Carlo Bay hotel. Prince Albert II also honored the festivities with his presence. In a respectful speech, the Prince paid tribute to the Legionnaires, highlighting their exceptional dedication and courage. He underlined the importance of the historic ties uniting the Foreign Legion and the Principality. In his speech, the Prince expressed his gratitude for their unfailing service and commitment. As a token of the Legionnaires’ deep esteem and admiration for him, the Prince was honored with a presentation of gifts. H.S.H. Prince Albert in turn thanked the various authorities of the Légion Étrangère.

A warm moment

After the presentation of gifts, all guests “kicked up dust” to mark the start of the cocktail reception. This ritual, charged with symbolism, preceded a warm and convivial moment where officials, the Prince’s riflemen, old and new legionnaires were able to exchange ideas and strengthen their bonds of unity. The lunch break was an opportunity for everyone to share moments of camaraderie and celebrate this memorable day together.

Naturally, the legionnaires (young and old) joined forces to sing songs of solemnity throughout the cocktail party.

Thanks to our godmother Melanie-Antoinette de Massy

We are honored to be able to express our sincere gratitude to our godmother, Melanie-Antoinette de Massy, whose unfailing support dates back to the creation of Legiopreneur. Since 2021, her presence and commitment have been invaluable. Many thanks to her for her invaluable contribution.

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Exceptional Christmas Celebration by Legiopreneur at the Institution des Invalides de la Légion Étrangère

Puyloubier, December 2, 2023

Sascha Kunkel, President of the Amicale Interprofessionnelle des Anciens Légionnaires Entrepreneurs – Legiopreneur, orchestrated a memorable day of holiday celebration on Saturday, December 2, 2023. The event took place at the illustrious Institution des Invalides de la Légion Étrangère in Puyloubier, marking a day full of honor, recognition and camaraderie.

A Solemn Beginning at the Legion Cemetery

The day began at 10 a.m. with a respectful welcome at the Legion Cemetery, symbolizing the profound tribute paid to our veterans. At 10:30 a.m., a moving ceremony at the Carré Légion, including the raising of the colors and the laying of wreaths, marked the start of the festivities. A special distinction was awarded to Aliaksei Androuchkin, the Amicale’s flag bearer, who was presented with the Médaille du Combattant in recognition of his exceptional dedication.

Christmas Shopping and Celebrating the Legionnaire Spirit

At 11am, members had the opportunity to visit the Boutique de l’Institution des Invalides de la Légion Étrangère, adding a festive touch with some Christmas shopping.

At 12.15pm, Colonel Madonna and President Sascha Kunkel welcomed General Youchtchenko. A memorable photo was taken on the staircase with all the members, immortalizing the fraternity that characterizes Legiopreneur.

Family and Recognition Luncheon

The central part of the day was marked by an exquisite lunch, where the General was welcomed with a bugle call to the tune of “Salut au Caïd”. President Sascha Kunkel, Founding President Jean-Pierre Bontoux, and General Youchtchenko shared their inspiring words. During lunch, heartfelt thanks were expressed to Treasurer Thien Tran and General Secretary Florent Ferrété, for their exceptional contribution to the organization.

Notable collaborations and artistic recognition

The fruitful collaboration with “A MOI LA LEGION”, the network of exchanges and mutual aid created by Mickaël de Prat and “Union National des Parachutiste” section 921 represented by its President Jean-Philippe Medouga, and not forgetting “Boule de feu”, the brand taking up a key expression of the Foreign Legion created by Victor Bonnet and sponsoring Benoît SAINT DENIS was highlighted, underlining the valuable partnerships that reinforce Legiopreneur’s mission.

Quality Entertainment and Enchanting Closing

The afternoon continued with captivating entertainment provided by a talented magician. A humorous sketch by JC added a touch of lightness and fun to the event. The day drew to a close around 4 p.m., leaving lasting memories in the minds of all present.

All in all, Legiopreneur’s Christmas Day at the Institution des Invalides de la Légion Étrangère was much more than a simple celebration. It was a palpable demonstration of the spirit of camaraderie, honor for the past and anticipation of a promising future for the Amicale. In this way, Legiopreneur continues to unite its members around the values that unite them, making every event an unforgettable experience.

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LEGIOPRENEUR 2022 CHRISTMAS IN PUYLOUBIER

On the first weekend of December, we had the pleasure of celebrating Legiopreneurs’ Christmas at the Institution des Invalides de la Légion Etrangère in Puyloubier.

Check Remittance

Our colleagues and friends, A moi la Légion, presented a cheque for €6,300 to the Institution des Invalides de la Légion Etrangère, raised thanks to Marina’s initiative in acting as “binomial” fundraiser.

Chairman Sascha Kunkel presented the various events that took place in 2022 and those to come in 2023.

General COMLE expressed his full support for the dynamism and expansion of Legiopreneurs.

Ceremony at the Carré Légion

This was followed by the ceremony at the Carré Légion, officiated by Colonel Madonna, Director of the Institution des Invalides de la Légion Etrangère, accompanied by Mademoiselle Mélanie-Antoinette de Massy, Patron of the Amicale Legiopreneur and its President, Sascha Kunkel.

After “dusting off” and singing “le boudin”, the guests returned to the table for lunch.

During the meal, we were able to contemplate the works of art of Louis Perez Y Cid from the LEGION’ARTS Association. The aim of this association is to promote artists and friends of the legionnaire community.

Noël Légionpreneur in Puyloubier 03/12/2022
Noël Légionpreneur in Puyloubier 03/12/2022
Noël Légionpreneur in Puyloubier 03/12/2022

Hassan de Monaco and Cheyenne Carron’s Film

This year, comedian Hassan de Monaco was unable to attend as he did last year, but he was kind enough to send us a short video to pass on his greetings and, of course, throw in a few punchlines. You can find him at Point-Virgule in Paris.

The trailer for Cheyenne Carron’s film “Je m’abandonne à toi” (I abandon myself to you), which tells the story of a Padre in the French Foreign Legion, was another emotional moment. This man, among others, helps his comrades to get through their sometimes tormented missions and daily lives. He is always there for those who, in need of a listening ear and comfort, wish to rediscover a profound part of our humanity. A fine tribute to military chaplains.

Donation to the 2nd Foreign Infantry Regiment

Chaplain Pierre-Nicolas Chapeau of the Foreign Legion’s 2nd REI then explained that all pre-sales of the DVD would be donated to the 2nd Foreign Infantry Regiment, as a contribution to their magnificent project to create a new chapel.

Good news: the DVD pre-sales target has passed 100% !

This wonderful day ended with a stop at the boutique to prepare Christmas gifts with a touch of green and red!

Many thanks again to the Institution des Invalides and its team for their warm welcome and attentive service !

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Legiopreneur Christmas

The Amicale Internationale des Anciens Légionnaires Entrepreneurs – Legiopreneur celebrated its first Christmas at the Institution des Invalides de la Légion Etrangère in Puyloubier, France, on Sunday December 19, 2021.

The day began with a ceremony at the Carré Légion, with the raising of the colors and the laying of a wreath by the Amicale’s godmother, Mélanie-Antoinette de MASSY, accompanied by Colonel MADONNA, Director of the Institution des Invalides de la Légion Etrangère, by Commandant DEPREZ, Deputy Director of the Foyer d’Entraide de la Légion Etrangère, by Jean-Pierre Bontoux, Founding President of the Amicale Legiopreneur and by Sascha Kunkel, Active President of the Amicale Legiopreneur.

Following the commemoration, all guests stopped off at the Boutique to do some Christmas shopping, before joining the Mess for lunch.

Before opening the meal with “Poussière”, Sascha Kunkel presented the main objectives of the Amicale, such as supporting entrepreneurship in the broadest sense of the term, not limited to the commercial side, helping former Legionnaires and their families around the world, and developing fraternal links between existing Amicales of former Legionnaires.

Sascha Kunkel was invited by the President of the Amicale de Bordeaux to the Maison du Légionnaire in Auriol the day before, to present Christmas gifts to the veterans.

Other Amicale actions were presented, such as Wenceslas Betolaud’s swim across the English Channel in July 2021, to benefit the Foyer d’Entraide de la Legion Étrangère.

Also in the spotlight is a new project supported by the Amicale, the Grande Odyssée of Jonas Berteau, who in a few weeks’ time will set off on foot from Brest to Vladivostok, alone with his dog. He will cover 13,000 kilometers in memory of the French airmen of the “Normandie-Niemen”.

As part of the traditional “Sketch de Noël”, this lunch was marked by the presence of comedian “Hassan de Monaco“, who adapted and created a special edition on the theme of the Légion Etrangère, before taking to the stage at the legendary Point-Virgule in Paris every Monday from January to March 2022.

It was a day to remember, full of family spirit, laughter and reunion.

The gathering was held in compliance with health and safety regulations.

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LEGIOPRENEUR AT THE SALON DE LA GASTRONOMIE DE MONACO 2022

The Institution des Invalides de la Légion Etrangère de Puyloubier was present at the Salon de la Gastronomie in Monaco from November 25 to 28, 2022, supported by the Amicale Interprofessionnelle des Anciens Légionnaires Entrepreneurs – LEGIOPRENEUR and its members.

Meeting

On this occasion, a “verre de l’amitié” was organized with the members of Legiopreneur, the members of the Club Monégasque en Afrique (CEMA) and the management of the Monaco Economic Board at the end of the afternoon, around 5.30 pm.

Tasting with the members

We were also fortunate to be joined by our Godmother, Mademoiselle Melanie-Antoinette de Massy, and Colonel Madonna, Director of the Institution des Invalides de la Légion Etrangère.

First of all, there was a tasting of Legion wines, which were the star products of the exhibition, and for good reason: the white wine even won the jury’s “Coup de Coeur” award.

Exchanges and business opportunities took place between the various guests who met on this occasion.

Thanks

We would like to thank our member companies for their support and involvement in this event.

A day rich in reunions, even encounters, which perfectly defines the values of our Amicale.

During the rest of the weekend, we were honored to welcome His Serene Highness, Prince Albert II of Monaco, to our stand, and to introduce him to the various wines produced by Domaine Capitaine Danjou de l’IILE.

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LEGIOPRENEUR TURNS 1 ON APRIL 30, 2022!

On this symbolic date, Sascha Kunkel, President, Jean-Pierre Bontoux, Founding President, and Aliaksei Androuchkin, Flag Bearer, proudly represented the Amicale LEGIOPRENEUR at the commemoration of the Battle of Camerone in Aubagne.

Strengthening Ties

In the presence of many of its members, the Amicale took time to exchange ideas and forge strong links with other Amicales sharing the same values, with a view to creating future collaborations.

A year of honour developing this Amicale, surrounded by dedicated people, legionnaires, sympathizers and civilians, to bring this project to fruition.

The main aim is to bring together former Legionnaires who are heads of companies and entrepreneurs, to strengthen the bonds of camaraderie and confraternity between former Legionnaires and to maintain friendly relations with the active formations of the Foreign Legion.

Our best actions :

  • Evacuation of Legionnaire’s family in Afghanistan
  • Evacuation and help for several families in Ukraine
  • Hiring and housing assistance for several legionnaires
  • Invitation to a dozen residents of the Institut des Invalides de la Légion Etrangère to the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters tennis tournament by Legiopreneur godmother, Mlle Mélanie-Antoinette de Massy
  • Fundraising for the Foyer d’Entraide de la Légion Étrangère
  • Various events (Cocktail Legiopreneur, Noël Legiopreneur in Puyloubier, Noël in Auriol, Camerone 2022…)
  • Assistance and referral for the sale of an apartment whose proceeds were donated to ELEF
  • Partnership and mutual support with several Amicales d’Anciens de la Légion Étrangère
  • Puppy adoption from Puyloubier
  • Legiopreneur members donate prizes for the 1st RE raffle

Today LEGIOPRENEUR in a few figures is :

  • 57 active members
  • Grants and Donations of around €50,000 for various social actions
  • 5 continents represented by our members
  • 82% of entrepreneurs
  • 67% former Foreign Legion personnel

Over the past 1 year, we have been able to forge links and partnerships with and between international professional bodies and professionals from all trades.

We are proud of and grateful to our President, Sascha Kunkel, our Founding President, Jean-Pierre Bontoux, our Godmother, Mlle Mélanie-Antoinette de Massy, the members of our office, all our members and the people who have played an important role in our Amicale during this first year.

We’re working hard to make our Amicale grow, and we’re counting on your support.

Long live Legiopreneur !

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Legiopreneurs Christmas

The Amicale Internationale des Anciens Légionnaires Entrepreneurs – Legiopreneur celebrated its first Christmas at the Institution des Invalides de la Légion Etrangère in Puyloubier, France, on Sunday December 19, 2021.

Ceremony at Carré Légion

The day began with a ceremony at the Carré Légion, with the raising of the colors and the laying of a wreath by the Amicale’s godmother, Mélanie-Antoinette de MASSY, accompanied by Colonel MADONNA, Director of the Institution des Invalides de la Légion Etrangère, by Commandant DEPREZ, Deputy Director of the Foyer d’Entraide de la Légion Etrangère, by Jean-Pierre Bontoux, Founding President of the Amicale Legiopreneur and by Sascha Kunkel, Active President of the Amicale Legiopreneur.

Sharing Moments

Following the commemoration, all guests stopped off at the Boutique to do some Christmas shopping, before joining the Mess for lunch.

Before opening the meal with “Poussière”, Sascha Kunkel presented the main objectives of the Amicale, such as supporting entrepreneurship in the broadest sense of the term, not limited to the commercial side, helping former Legionnaires and their families around the world, and developing fraternal links between existing Amicales of former Legionnaires.

Sascha Kunkel was invited by the President of the Amicale de Bordeaux to the Maison du Légionnaire in Auriol the day before, to present Christmas gifts to the veterans.

Actions of the Amicale

Other Amicale actions were presented, such as Wenceslas Betolaud’s swim across the English Channel in July 2021, to benefit the Foyer d’Entraide de la Legion Étrangère.

Also in the spotlight is a new project supported by the Amicale, the Grande Odyssée of Jonas Berteau, who in a few weeks’ time will set off on foot from Brest to Vladivostok, alone with his dog. He will cover 13,000 kilometers in memory of the French airmen of the “Normandie-Niemen”.

Laughter and Reunion

As part of the traditional “Sketch de Noël”, this lunch was marked by the presence of comedian “Hassan de Monaco”, who adapted and created a special edition on the theme of the Légion Etrangère, before taking to the stage at the legendary Point-Virgule in Paris every Monday from January to March 2022.

It was a day to remember, full of family spirit, laughter and reunion. The gathering was held in compliance with health and safety regulations.

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Check remittance – Manche 2021 Legion

Following Wenceslas Betolaud’s sporting feat of swimming solo across the English Channel on July 18, some members of Legiopreneur – l’Amicale International des Anciens Légionnaires Entrepreneurs – got together to raise €10,400.

On Friday September 17, the Amicale and the donors* were represented by Sascha KUNKEL and Florent FERRÉTÉ, President and General Secretary of Legiopreneur, to present the cheque for €10,400 to Wenceslas Betolaud for the benefit of the Foyer d’Entraide de la Légion Étrangère.

This sum is added to the kitty initially set up by Wenceslas Betolaud, bringing the total to 51,111€.


The cheque was presented to General LARDET, in the presence of Major Gerald and Antoine S., Wenceslas’ friend and companion during the crossing.

*Liste des donateurs (ordre alphabetique) : ALGIZ Security / ARGOS Security / BLCF83 / Pedro Cabanas / Consultancy Security OPERATIONS / EURO PACTE / EURO PREVENTION+ / Jurgen Gloudemans / Grand Sud Sécurité / Groupe LPN / Healphy / Olivia Lefebvre du Prey / Maximus Finance / Adri Paans / PRAETORIAN TRAJAN SAS / Ravenhill Risk Control / SAS Ivoxe / Sibirskiye Volki Protection / Terräng – MP-SEC France / Stéphanie et Laurent Viellard