Barry Allen Sadler was an American soldier, singer/songwriter, and author, best known for his patriotic “Ballad of the Green Berets,” a #1 hit in 1966.

He worked as a Green Beret medic in the Vietnam War from late December 1964 until late May 1965. By the end of his tenure, he had earned the rank of Staff Sergeant. Watch the video below.

He sang his well-known song “Ballad of the Green Berets” on The Ed Sullivan Show in 1966. The video of this performance has made a comeback on YouTube, with over 2.5 million views.

The song is a patriotic homage to the US military’s courage and sacrifice, particularly the Green Berets.

The Green Berets are often considered as the most elite special operations team in the United States. The name is derived from the trademark service headgear they wear.

The outfit was inspired by purpose-built special operations organizations such as the Alamo Scouts, Philippine insurgents, the First Special Service Force, and the Office of Strategic Services’ Operational Groups (OGs).

Sadler received numerous decorations during his career, including the Purple Heart, the US Army Special Forces Insignia, the Expert Marksmanship badge, and many others.