It feels like the author has decided, based on superficial views, that the Foreign Legion is uniquely a "death cult", and then forced his narrative through the

It feels like the author has decided, based on superficial views, that the Foreign Legion is uniquely a "death cult", and then forced his narrative through the article. But it makes no sense: all elite military forces are based on tales of hardship and sacrifices, the Legion is absolutely not unique in that regard. I would argue that what made it distinctive is that, for much of its history, anyone could try to join regardless of where they came from (to this day you don't even need to speak French to apply -- you are taught the language during training), and be accepted solely on their individual performance, and then be given not only a new passport, but also a new legal name. To be no-one, and then earn a new identity if you make it through, is I think quite unique to them. And it fits with the "romantic view" mentioned in the article that is likely to attract quite a few candidates.