The novel is set during World War II in Sumatra, Dutch East Indies. The term "foreign legion" does not refer to the French Foreign Legion, but is the name given in the book to a small international force (including Tarzan) fighting the Empire of Japan.
The narrative takes place during World War II in Sumatra, Dutch East Indies. The phrase "foreign legion" is not a reference to the French Foreign Legion, but instead refers to an international coalition (featuring Tarzan) battling the Empire of Japan.