What is the purpose of the flash on the beret?

The flash on the beret primarily serves to display the soldier’s unit affiliation. Each unit within the Army has its own distinct flash that typically consists of colors and symbols that represent the unit's heritage, mission, or designation. This visual identifier fosters a sense of belonging and pride among soldiers, as it connects them to their specific unit and its history. By wearing the flash, soldiers visibly communicate their association with their unit to others, which is important both in military operations and in fostering camaraderie within the ranks.