Belgians for Mexico

 One of the Key units I wanted to do for the Imperial Mexican army was the Belgian Legion.

A very pretty unit that saw lots of action although they probably shouldnt have.

When Maximillian of Austria, the Emperors younger brother, was offered the Imperial Crown of Mexico his father in law, King of Belgians, gave him permission to recruit a Belgian Legion to support him.

All volunteers the troops were green but enthusiastic. Two battalions were raised, one of Grenadiers and one of Voltiguers. Initially as Palace guards their commander lobbied for action, sick of insults from French officers, and was granted his wish. 

These first figures are for the Grenadier battalion with red lace, the Voltiguers having green lace and will follow in due course.

All Gringo 40's figures and lovely, a slightly limited range I am expanding by some simple head swaps with Officers for Tonkin whose uniform is a good fit.

Then there are these 7, I picked them up from ebay, not cheap but a good fit and a decent headstart, not keen on the painted eyes so the faces may need a little work to be closer to my style and I will add leather gaiter toppers at the calf but other than that and some minor scratches these are pretty much done once I remove their bases. 

I particularly like the officer.

So those two take me to 13 out of a 20 man unit, the standard bearer is probably going to be the most challenging as Gringo 40's dont really do them and even the Tonkin range would need hand swaps to facilitate this.

I glued the last lot of Belgians to bases before realising I hadnt taken pictures, apologies so here are some of the extras on their bases.

French Officer of Contra Guerillas with head swap on the right.

Advancing Legionnaire on left.

Separate command figure for Sharp Practice.

Republican Mounted Commander is cloak.

French Indo China officer with head swap and hand swap for open hand to facilitate the flag, carefully put together by chum Chris Charlton, cheers Chris.

Hopefully have these based up to share in next week or two.

Until then thanks for stopping by.