Staff Sergeant Barry A. Sadler was an American hero who served as a Green Beret medic in the Vietnam War from late December 1964 to late May 1965. He achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant and is best known for his hit song, “The Ballad of the Green Berets,” which became the No. 1 hit song of 1966.

SSG Sadler was born on November 1, 1940, in Carlsbad, NM, and was the second son of John and Bebe Littlefield Sadler. He enlisted in the United States Army in 1958 and completed basic training at Fort Ord, California. After completing his training, he was assigned to the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, Kentucky.

Sadler served as a Green Beret medic and achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant. He served two tours in Vietnam from late December 1964 to late May 1965 and again from August 1966 to August 1967. During his service in Vietnam, he earned numerous commendations, including two Purple Hearts for wounds received during combat operations, an Air Medal with a “V” device for heroism while under enemy fire, a Bronze Star with a “V” device for heroism while under enemy fire, and a Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm Leaf for heroism while under enemy fire.

Green Berets & Music

Barry Sadler’s journey into the realm of music began with a chance encounter with Lt. Gerry Gitell, a Public Information Officer stationed at Fort Bragg. Gitell recognized Sadler’s raw musical talent and took it upon himself to set up a basic recording studio on base. This unlikely partnership marked the first step in Sadler’s transformation from a soldier to a budding musician.

Sadler recorded his initial demo in this makeshift studio, showcasing his unique voice and songwriting abilities. Lt. Gitell played a crucial role in marketing Sadler’s music and attracting the attention of industry professionals. Thanks to Gitell’s unwavering support, Sergeant Sadler signed a songwriter’s contract in July of 1964, officially kickstarting his music career and setting the stage for the remarkable success that would follow.

Sadler’s most notable accomplishment came after his return from Vietnam when he wrote the song “The Ballad of the Green Berets,” which became an instant hit upon its release in 1966. The song became that year’s No. 1 hit single and brought attention to the brave men who served in Special Forces units worldwide.

Sadler’s life was not without tragedy, however. On December 1, 1978, he shot and killed Lee Emerson Bellamy in Nashville and pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter. He died on November 5, 1989, at the Alvin C. York Medical Center in Murfreesboro, TN, and is buried at Nashville National Cemetery in Nashville, TN.

His Legacy 

The impact of Sadler’s accomplishments extends beyond just his service record or his contributions to the entertainment industry; they also serve as a reminder of the brotherhood that exists within our military community. His story resonates with all who have served or are currently serving in our armed forces; it is a story of courage, strength, honor, and respect for our fallen comrades.

SSG Barry A. Sadler’s legacy will live on forever through his song “The Ballad of The Green Berets,” which is a tribute to all those who have served their country with distinction and honor throughout history. His life serves as an example of what true heroism looks like and will continue to inspire generations to come who strive for excellence in their own lives.

His legacy lives on through his music, his story of heroism during wartime, and the pop stardom that followed it. 

His courage and bravery earned him a place among America’s greatest heroes, making him deserving of a “Badge of Courage.”

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To learn more about his life and music, check out SSG Barry Sadler’s books and discography here.