Siemenovski Foot Guards (ETW Unit)
These elite foot guards are charged with protecting the persons of the Tsar or Tsarina and the Imperial family.
Overview
Armed and equipped in the same fashion as line infantrymen with smoothbore muskets. They are, however, altogether more splendid fellows in uniforms cut from the finest cloth. Sartorial elegance is not the only mark of superiority, as these men are arrogant (with good reason), well trained, and terrifying soldiers. Any general is glad to have these men to hand, as they can be relied upon, unlike many line infantry units. They also make fearsome garrison troops as their loyalty to the throne makes them ruthless in suppressing dissent.
The Siemenovski Foot Guards were raised by Peter the Great (1682-1725) during his time at the Royal Lodge in Preobrazhenskoe. The Guard began as two Poteshyi companies Peter created to learn about the art of command. The Siemenovski Foot Guards proved themselves invaluable in Peter’s eyes, and further guard regiments were raised from among Russian nobles for years to come. The Guards were not just a military force: Peter used them as a political and administrative weapon. Officers were sent out to enforce Peter’s reforms across Russia.
Details
Recruitable only in the Russian Home regions, and available only to Russia, the Siemenovski Foot Guards are a unique and Elite Line Infantry. They posses significantly higher statistics than their Line Infantry counterparts and so, can be relied upon in the heat of battle. Elite units such as the Siemenovski Foot Guards should be made best use of by positioning them in the middle of the line in order to maximise the effectiveness of their morale boost.