What Branch of the Military are Green Berets?
The green beret is a symbol of special forces units in the US military, but not all branches have them. So, what branch of the military are green berets?
Contents
Introduction
The green beret is a distinctive headpiece worn by members of the US Army’s Special Forces, also known as the Green Berets. These elite soldiers are trained in unconventional warfare, foreign languages, and specialized skills like survival, intelligence gathering, and combat tactics. The Green Berets are an integral part of the US Army’s Special Forces Command, which is a vital component of the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC).
The Origins of the Green Beret
The Green Beret legacy began in 1951 when the US Army activated the 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. The initial selection process was grueling, and only 11 men out of 170 applicants made it through. To distinguish themselves from conventional troops, the Special Forces units adopted the green beret, which was not a standard issue item.
The green beret became a symbol of distinction and excellence, and those who wore it were deemed elite warriors. Over the years, the Green Berets have evolved to become expert soldiers, capable of performing a wide range of specialized tasks.
About the US Army Special Forces
The US Army Special Forces are a unique type of soldier, trained in advanced skills such as:
- Unconventional warfare
- Foreign language fluency
- Survival skills
- Intelligence gathering and analysis
- Combat tactics
- Explosives handling and demolition
- Language skills
The Green Berets are organized into units known as Operational Detachments-Alpha (ODA), which typically consist of 12 soldiers and a team leader. ODA teams are designed to be self-sufficient, capable of operating independently or integrating with other special forces units.
Okinawa and the World-Wide Operations
The Green Berets have a long and distinguished history of service in Okinawa and around the world. In the 1950s and 1960s, they played a significant role in the conflict in Vietnam, conducting secret operations behind enemy lines and advising local forces.
During the Cold War, the Green Berets also trained and advised foreign guerrilla forces, helping them resist communist aggression. The Special Forces were instrumental in Operation Eagle Claw, which was a secret mission in Iran in 1980.
In recent years, the Green Berets have played a key role in counter-terrorism operations, hostage rescues, and clandestine missions in the War on Terror.
The Green Beret Traditions
The Green Berets have a rich tradition and esprit de corps. They are known for their distinctive green berets, which are made of cotton and have a specific fold. The berets are worn with a tie or a headband and are a symbol of unity among the Special Forces.
Another tradition is the green beret oath, which new recruits take when they first don the beret:
"I pledge my honor, my loyalty and my life to my team, my country and to my fellow Green Berets."
The Special Forces also have a famous saying: "De Oppresso Liber" – "To Liberate the Oppressed", which reflects their mission of liberating people from oppression and tyranny.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Green Berets are a part of the US Army’s Special Forces. They are elite warriors trained in advanced skills and dedicated to conducting unconventional warfare and special operations. The Green Berets have a long and distinguished history, and their traditions, oath, and motto reflect their commitment to their mission and values.
Here is a comparison table of the US Armed Forces branches and their equivalents in other countries:
Branch | Army | Navy | Air Force | Marines
US | Special Forces (Green Berets) | SEAL Teams (Navy) | Combat Controllers (Air Force) | Force Recon Marines (Marines)
UK | Special Boat Service (SBS) | Special Air Service (SAS) | Para Rescuemen (PR) | Royal Marines
Australia | Special Operations Command (SOC) | Australian Navy Clearance Divers (NCDS) | Combat Control Team (CCT) | Special Operations Commando (SOC)
France | Commandos Marins (CM) | Groupement des Interventions Spéciales (GIS) | Commandement des Opérations Aéroterrestres et Marines (COAM) | Commando Parachutiste de l’Air (CPA)
Canada | Special Forces (JTF 2) | Royal Marines | Combat Controllers (Joint Task Force 2 (JTF 2) | Royal Canadian Marine | Special Operations Forces (JSF)
