Imperial Guard

Foot Grenadiers of the Guard

Old Guard

1804-1815

The foot grenadiers formed the core of the Old Guard. Minimum height 5'9", at least ten years of service. They were the legendary 'grognards', the last to leave the battlefield.

Two regiments of foot grenadiers (1st and 2nd) made up the Old Guard. They wore the iconic bearskin. Deployed at Eylau, Aspern-Essling, Borodino and Waterloo, they embodied Napoleonic invincibility until the final charge of June 18, 1815.

Commanders and battles

Notable commanders

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