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GREEN BERET

Originally adapted in 1953, the green beret was the unofficial headgear used by the Army's Special Forces for prolonged field exercises.  Special Forces soldiers are highly trained experts in unconventional warfare operations and counter-insurgency.  Their missions involve the most rigorous, intensive and challenging tactics of guerrilla warfare and strategic intelligence the Army offers.  Only the best of the best wear the green beret.

In a 1961 visit to Fort Bragg, President John F. Kennedy requested that the Special Forces soldiers wear their green berets to set them apart from the rest.  Later, President Kennedy issued a White House memorandum in support of the Special Forces, calling the green beret "a symbol of excellence, a badge of courage, and a mark of distinction in the fight for freedom."

GI Joe earned the green beret in 1966 when a new Special Forces action soldier and equipment were introduced in honor of the legendary hero of the Vietnam War.  A GI Joe Green Beret was prepared for special assignment anytime, anywhere.  The original battle cry of the 1960s can still be heard: "GI Joe, GI Joe - fighting man from head to toe.  On the land, on the sea, in the air..."

THE BALLAD OF THE GREEN BERETS

Fighting soldiers from the sky, Fearless men who jump and die, Men who mean just what they say, The brave men of the Green Beret. Silver wings upon their chests, These are men, America's best, One hundred men we'll test today, But only three win the Green Beret. Trained to live off nature's land, Trained in combat, hand to hand, Men who fight by night and day, Courage take from the Green Beret. Silver wings upon their chests, These are men, America's best, Men who mean just what they say, The brave men of the Green Beret. Back at home a young wife waits, Her Green Beret has met his fate, He has died for those oppressed, Leaving her this last request: Put silver wings on my son's chest, Make him one of America's best, He'll be a man they'll test one day, Have him win the Green Beret.

FAO Schwarz immortalizes the "men who fight by night and day... the brave men of the Green Beret!"  Complete with special forces patches, service badges, and authentic medals FAO's 1998 Green Beret exclusive proves to be one of the most comprehensive GI Joe sets ever! Armed with an assortment of accessories, the 12" hero is presented in all of its glory in a specially crafted wooden shadowbox.

Music playing "Music Box"