THE 159th RIA - The Snow Regiment Vol. 1 1887–1939

Period photographs
36 uniform silhouettes
A wealth of documents, pennants and insignia

The 159th RIA is the emblematic regiment of the Hautes-Alpes. Its presence in Briançon from 1890 to 1994 left a very strong impression on local memory and landscape. Many families had one or more members who served in its ranks, sometimes giving their lives.

Since the end of the 19th century, the 159th RIA took part in the conquest of the mountains, the development of skiing, the organisation of the 1st international skiing competition in France, local life and territorial development.

During the First World War, the 3,764 men killed in its ranks bear witness to its commitment throughout the conflict, from Alsace to Artois and from Verdun to Flanders.
Between the two wars, the regiment actively continued its training and mountain warfare preparation, permanently manning numerous high-altitude posts.

The 159th RIA is one of the pillars of the Alpine troops and contributed greatly to their renown, prestige and respect among other units of the French and foreign armies.

This first volume traces the regiment's history from its creation in 1887 to the mobilisation of 1939, through precise texts, a rich iconography and numerous artefacts. The second volume will continue its story through to its disbandment in 1994.