The selection of regular soldiers was relatively easy, prioritizing those with good records while eliminating those with a history of violating military discipline or having committed crimes. A selection of over 1,700 soldiers, combining an infantry regiment and a cavalry camp, was completed in a matter of days.
Screening officers was a more troublesome matter.
Following the orders of the Crown Prince, Colonel Bertier eliminated all the senior officers, leaving only captains at the highest rank.
There was no need to worry about a lack of intermediate and senior officers because among the captains, many had the capability to serve in higher positions but were held back simply due to their humble origins or lack of money.
Promoting some of these outstanding individuals was far more effective than relying on the inherited officers for combat capabilities.