5th Light Cavalry Division (France)


The French 5th Light Cavalry Division was a French Army division active during World [War II].

World War II

Battle of France

The 5th Light Cavalry Division was a newly formed unit created in early 1940. It was part of the French Second Army commanded by Général Charles Huntziger in May 1940. The division was commanded by Général de Division Jacques Chanoine.
The division was noted to have new equipment, but suffered a shortfall of 200 horses, which was compensated by converting two squadrons into cycling units.

Organization (10 May 1940)

The division's headquarters was located at Bazeilles on 10 May 1940. The organization was as follows:

Attached Units

On 10 May 1940, the following units were temporarily attached to the 5e DLC :
  • 12e GRCA
  • 60e GRDI
  • 64e GRDI
  • III/12e RZ
  • I/295e RI