The Formation of the US Army's Green Berets

In 1961, President John F. Kennedy officially recognized and championed the U.S. Army Special Forces, known as the Green Berets, as a critical element of America's military strategy during the Cold War. While the Special Forces had been active since the early 1950s, Kennedy’s vision elevated their role in unconventional warfare and counterinsurgency. He admired their adaptability, intelligence, and ability to operate behind enemy lines, embodying the innovative and flexible military tactics needed in an era of emerging threats. To honor their unique identity, Kennedy authorized the green beret as their official headgear, symbolizing their elite status and unconventional approach.

The formation and recognition of the Green Berets aligned with Kennedy’s broader strategy of "flexible response," which emphasized a diversified military capable of handling conflicts beyond conventional warfare. The Green Berets were tasked with missions ranging from guerrilla warfare and counterterrorism to advising foreign militaries, making them a key tool in countering communist expansion during the Vietnam era. Kennedy’s support for the Special Forces solidified their place as vital to U.S. defense strategy. It cemented their reputation as a force capable of succeeding in the most complex and challenging environments. Today, the Green Berets continue to carry forward the legacy of excellence and innovation envisioned by President Kennedy.