1:35 French WWII Commando Kieffer - Soldier 13

The real subject

The French commandos under the command of Philippe Kieffer are among the best-known units of the Free French. They grew out of volunteers who had got to Britain, went through hard commando training and fought alongside British units. They wore British field uniforms and a green beret, so at first glance they blended in with their British comrades. They are talked about most in connection with the landings in Normandy, where a small French group went ashore among the first waves.

The figure

The figure in 1:35 scale captures one member of the unit. The marking with the number 13 distinguishes the individual figures within the line, so a whole group can be put together in which every man stands and carries his equipment differently. In 1:35 scale it fits ordinary ground equipment and diorama accessories alike in size.

• A figure of a French commando from the unit under Kieffer's command
• 1:35 scale, number 13 in the line
• It fits equipment and dioramas in the same scale
• Suitable for a scene from the landings and from the later fighting alike

Building and painting tips

Cut the excess material off with a sharp blade a little away from the part and sand the remnant down carefully, so that the folds of the cloth do not disappear. Wash and degrease the figure before painting, and choose the glue according to the material of the parts. Start the painting with the face, because that decides whether the figure comes across as alive. Build the uniform on muted shades and bring the relief out with a light dry brush along the edges of the folds. The green beret is the detail the unit is recognized by, so keep it clean and strong in color.

Who it is for

For builders of dioramas from the European theater of the Second World War and for collectors of figures. Paints and glue are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.