permanent instructors to jungle and desert schools in French Guiana or friendly African countries Every year, the Regiment sends some of its members to foreign schools to improve its tactics and procedures in hostile environments (jungle, bush...) A regular influx of experienced NCOs volunteering from the French 27th Mountain Infantry Brigade keeps the Regiment up-to-date on modern mountaineering techniques Selection and training Officers and NCOs joining the regiment have to attend the same selection and training as enlisted personnel. Enlisted soldiers in the French Army can try to join super RPIMA, between their first and third years of active duty. First step is a profile selection: Candidates will be selected regarding unit requirements and personal file (e.g. if the regiment needs some mountain specialists, they will ask for more mountain troopers to come for the selection). Candidates selected must attend the two weeks basic airborne training prior the SF training, for those who are not already enlisted in an airborne regiment. Second step of selection is "adaptation training" and "stage commando" lasting twelve weeks. Candidates must be above average to continue the training. Most cases of failure and RTU occur during this phase. The last step of selection is the "stage CTE RAPAS" lasting six months. After completion of this "stage", candidates are fully assigned to the regiment as special force soldier. They will attend additional training to become specialists (bodyguards, pathfinders, etc.) Traditions Anniversary of the Troupes de Marine The anniversary is celebrated of fighting in Bazeilles, a village which was taken and abandoned four consecutive times under orders, on August 31 and September 1, 1870. Et au Nom de Dieu, vive la coloniale ! In the Name of God, long live the colonial ! The Marsouins and the Bigors have for Saint, God. This war calling concludes intimate ceremonies which part life in the regiments. Often also at origin as an act of grace to Charles de Foucauld. Patron Saint Saint-Michael: As a paratrooper regiment, the 1er R.P.I.Ma celebrates each year on September 29, the Patron-Saint of Paratroopers. This celebration gives rise to various events with veterans. Motto « Who dares wins » is the general motto of the British SAS, translated in French to « Qui ose gagne ». Insignia Regimental Colors The unit is the only parachute regiments of the Marines to wear purple berets as opposed to the standard red beret of other units. Honors