Polish Army in France (1939–1940)
| Polish Army in France | |
|---|---|
Polish soldiers in training with MAS 36 rifles, France, 1940. | |
| Active | 1939–1940 |
| Country | Poland |
| Allegiance | Poland France |
| Branch | Army |
| Size | 84,461 (highest) |
| Nickname(s) | Sikorski's Army |
| Engagements | Battle of France Battles of Narvik |
The Polish Army in France formed in France under the command of General Władysław Sikorski (and hence sometimes known as Sikorski's Army) in late 1939, after the fall of Poland resulting from the Polish Defensive War. About 85,000 troops were in the process of being organized into fighting formations (four infantry divisions, two independent brigades and air support) when the Battle of France started. The army was partially destroyed in the hostilities, but over 20,000 soldiers were evacuated and formed a new Polish army in the United Kingdom.
The creation of Polish formations in France marked the beginnings of the Polish Armed Forces in the West.
Polish Armed Forces in France
Growth of the personnel.
Growth of the personnel.
| 20 October 1939 | 1,900 |
| 10 January 1940 | 31,409 |
| 27 April 1940 | 68,423 |
| 15 June 1940 | 84,461 |
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