Why might British First World War veterans in the Home Guard resist differently from French veterans during the fall of France?
Short answerThe Home Guard had time, familiar ground, and prepared positions, while French veterans faced rapid operational collapse inside a differently affected army.
NotesThe contrast follows from circumstances rather than a simple difference in courage. French veterans were caught inside an army and state being overwhelmed at speed, while British Home Guard units had time to organise, become familiar with their positions, and prepare on home ground. The comparison also includes different First World War experiences and the condition in which the two armies emerged from that conflict. Veteran status alone does not predict how a force will perform in a later campaign.