SSgt. Barry Sadler

Barry Sadler was a U.S. Army Special Forces medic who wrote and recorded 'Ballad of the Green Beret' in 1965. The song became a hit during the Vietnam War era, reaching audiences far beyond military circles. He followed it with other songs like 'Salute To The Nurses' and 'The Soldier Has Come Home,' but none matched that initial success.

Sadler served as a paratrooper in Vietnam before writing the song. His experience there informed the straightforward, earnest tone of his music. While 'Ballad of the Green Beret' was embraced by many, it also drew criticism from anti-war groups during a divisive period.

He recorded several albums in the mid-to-late 1960s, including 'The Green Berets' and 'Barry Sadler Sings of the Special Forces.' The songs tended to focus on military themes, with titles like 'Badge Of Courage' and 'Garet Trooper' reflecting that consistent focus. Sadler died in 1989.