U.s. Air Force Beret Colors

The beret, a symbol of military heritage and distinction, holds a significant place in the U.S. Air Force. Each color of the beret carries its own unique history, symbolism, and significance. This article explores the diverse range of beret colors in the U.S. Air Force, delving into their origins, the units and roles associated with them, and the proud traditions they represent.

The Evolution of Beret Colors in the U.S. Air Force

The tradition of berets in the U.S. Air Force can be traced back to the early days of the service’s formation. Initially, the standard headgear for Air Force personnel was the garrison cap, but the adoption of berets began in the 1970s with the introduction of the maroon beret for the Air Force Special Operations units.

Over the years, the Air Force has embraced a diverse array of beret colors, each symbolizing specific roles, skills, and the unique identities of different Air Force units. From the distinctive maroon to the striking blue, each color tells a story of bravery, expertise, and dedication.

Maroon Beret: Special Operations

The maroon beret is perhaps the most iconic and instantly recognizable beret color in the U.S. Air Force. It is synonymous with the elite Special Operations forces, particularly the Air Force Special Tactics (AFST) units.

Worn by highly trained operators, the maroon beret symbolizes the extraordinary skills and bravery of these Airmen. Special Tactics personnel are experts in combat control, pararescue, combat weather, and special operations support, often operating in high-risk, complex environments.

The history of the maroon beret dates back to 1963 when the Air Force authorized its wear by the Airborne Rescue, Service, and Special Operations personnel. This tradition continues today, with the maroon beret remaining a symbol of excellence and a testament to the unwavering commitment of these specialized units.

Special Tactics Squadrons

The Special Tactics Squadrons are at the forefront of special operations, combining unique skill sets to provide critical support to ground forces. These squadrons include:

• Combat Controllers: These experts specialize in controlling and directing airpower, providing vital fire support and air traffic control in hostile or austere environments.
• Pararescuemen (PJs): Known for their extraordinary bravery, PJs are trained to perform rescue operations in any condition, often risking their lives to save others.
• Special Operations Weather Technicians: These meteorologists provide crucial weather forecasting and analysis, ensuring that special operations missions can proceed with the best possible intelligence.

Special Operations Training and Accreditation

The journey to earning the maroon beret is a rigorous and challenging process. Candidates undergo extensive training, including the Special Tactics Combat Skills Course, where they learn a wide range of skills from navigation to combat techniques. Only those who successfully complete this grueling training and demonstrate exceptional proficiency are awarded the esteemed maroon beret.

Blue Beret: Combat Control and Weather

The blue beret is worn by two distinct groups within the Air Force: the Combat Control (CCT) and Combat Weather (CWT) teams.

Combat Control Team

The Combat Control Team is an integral part of the Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC). These experts are trained to control and direct airpower during special operations, providing vital support to ground forces. They specialize in tasks such as air traffic control, terminal guidance, and combat search and rescue.

The blue beret, along with the distinctive Parachutist Badge and Combat Control Badge, identifies these highly skilled Airmen who often work in close coordination with Special Tactics units.

Combat Weather Team

The Combat Weather Team, also known as the Weather Readiness Teams, plays a critical role in providing weather support to Air Force operations. These meteorologists deploy with combat units, offering real-time weather analysis and forecasts to ensure mission success.

Like their Combat Control counterparts, members of the Combat Weather Team wear the blue beret with pride, symbolizing their expertise and dedication to supporting Air Force missions worldwide.

Green Beret: Security Forces

The green beret is synonymous with the Air Force Security Forces (AFSF), the service’s premier law enforcement and force protection specialists.

Air Force Security Forces

The Air Force Security Forces are a highly trained and versatile group, responsible for a wide range of missions, including base security, law enforcement, and force protection. They are often the first line of defense, ensuring the safety and security of Air Force installations and personnel.

The green beret, along with the Security Forces Badge, identifies these Airmen as elite warriors, skilled in various combat and security disciplines. From close-quarters combat to counter-terrorism operations, the Security Forces are a critical component of the Air Force's defensive capabilities.

Security Forces Training

To earn the green beret, Airmen undergo rigorous training, including the Security Forces Academy, where they learn a wide range of skills from firearms proficiency to martial arts. The training focuses on developing the physical and mental toughness required to excel in the challenging and often dangerous world of security and force protection.

Black Beret: General Air Force

The black beret is the most widely recognized and commonly worn beret in the U.S. Air Force. It is the standard headgear for all Air Force personnel, except those with specialized beret colors.

While the black beret does not signify a specific unit or role, it is a symbol of the Air Force's unified identity and its commitment to excellence in all aspects of airpower. From pilots to maintainers, intelligence officers to administrative personnel, the black beret represents the diverse skills and expertise of the Air Force.

History and Adoption of the Black Beret

The adoption of the black beret as the standard headgear for the Air Force began in 2001. The decision was made to improve the service’s appearance and uniformity, reflecting the professionalism and precision that the Air Force stands for.

While the black beret is a common sight, Airmen are authorized to wear other beret colors if they are assigned to units with specialized berets. This ensures that the Air Force's diverse capabilities and unique identities are recognized and celebrated.

Tan Beret: Retired and No Longer Authorized

The tan beret was once authorized for wear by the Air Force Combat Control Team (CCT) and the Pararescue (PJ) personnel. However, in 2011, the tan beret was retired, and its wear was discontinued.

The tan beret was a symbol of the specialized skills and unique identities of these units. While it is no longer authorized for wear, the legacy of the tan beret lives on, representing the proud history and achievements of these Air Force special operations units.

A Symbol of Pride and Distinction

The beret colors of the U.S. Air Force are more than just headgear; they are symbols of pride, distinction, and the unique identities of various Air Force units. From the elite Special Operations forces to the critical roles of Security Forces and Combat Control teams, each beret color tells a story of bravery, skill, and dedication.

As the Air Force continues to evolve, the beret tradition remains a vital part of its heritage. The diverse array of beret colors serves as a constant reminder of the Air Force's commitment to excellence, its rich history, and the diverse skills and capabilities of its Airmen.