Dolly Parton Delivers A Glorious, Emotional Tribute With ‘Ballad Of The Green Berets’

Dolly Parton wowed country music when she released her cover of “Ballad Of The Green Berets.” With songs like “Jolene,” “9 to 5,” and “I Will Always Love You” under her diamond-studded belt, it almost seemed unexpected for her to cover the infamous Green Berets tribute, but lo and behold, here it is and we’re excited to share it with the world.

 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 chest
These are men, America's best
One hundred men will 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 chest
These are men, America's best
One hundred men will test today
But only three win 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 his 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

 “Ballad Of The Green Berets” is a patriotic ballad dedicated to the U.S. Army elite special force team. It was recorded by SSGT. Barry Sadler in 1966 and became an immediate hit, as it casted the military in a positive light. The song was written by Sadler, a medic in the Vietnam War, and Robin Moore. It peaked at #1 on the Hot 100 chart and stayed there for five weeks. It was a crossover hit as well.
“The guys in special forces are usually the first ones into the war and often the last ones out. Imagine going into a hostile country, lightly armed, and with just a few men. What they do is so secret, they never get the recognition they deserve and this is the one time I want them to know they’re appreciated,” Dolly states before delivering her emotional tribute that was recorded for her 2003 album, For God And Country.
Whether you listen to Dolly’s rendition or the original by SSGT. Barry Sadler, it will puff up your chest with American pride for those who sacrifice so much for our great nation.
Don’t forget to check out SSGT. Barry Sadler’s version as well below.