Who is authorized to wear the maroon beret?

The maroon beret is specifically authorized for airborne personnel as a symbol of their training and capabilities. This headgear represents the rigorous and specialized training that these soldiers undergo to safely conduct airborne operations, which includes parachuting from aircraft. This distinctive maroon color signifies a level of elite status within the Army associated with airborne units and the unique skill set required for these missions.

While Special Forces members and Army Rangers also wear distinctive headgear, they have their own unique berets, which denote their specific branches and qualifications. The Air Force, while it has its own set of uniforms and wear policies, does not wear the maroon beret associated with airborne qualifications in the Army context. The authorization of the maroon beret is strictly linked to airborne personnel and their specialized function within the Army.