&sq=&lang=&file=File:Question_book-new.svg){kind=small} | This article needs additional citations for verification. (January 2013) |
&sq=&lang=&file=File:Grognard1813.jpg)
The Imperial Guard (French: Garde Impériale) was an elite guard formation of the French Imperial Army under the direct command of Napoleon. Expanding considerably over time, the formation acted as his bodyguard and tactical reserve, and he was careful of its use in battle. The Imperial Guard was divided into a general staff and infantry, cavalry and artillery regiments as well as battalions of sappers and marines. It distinguished between experienced veterans and less experienced members by being separated into three sections: the Old Guard, Middle Guard and Young Guard. The Young Guard was virtually annihilated in the Battle of Krasnoi during the French invasion of Russia.