Step into Royal Marines history and discover the story of the Green Beret
Ahead of the opening of the new Royal Marines Experience at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard on 24 October, discover the stories behind some of the remarkable objects that will bring more than 360 years of Royal Marines history to life.
Few objects are more closely associated with the Royal Marines than the Green Beret.
More than a piece of military uniform, it represents something that has to be earned. Royal Marine recruits receive the Green Beret after successfully completing their Commando training, making it a powerful symbol of achievement, belonging and the shared identity of those who have worn it.
The story of the Green Beret stretches back to the Second World War. Green Berets were first issued to Royal Marines Commandos in 1942 and became closely associated with the Commando role. Since 1960, Royal Marines who successfully complete their training have earned the right to wear one.
Today, it remains one of the most instantly recognisable symbols of the Royal Marines.
“The Green Beret makes your heart pound when you look at it.”
Andy Williams, Royal Marine Veteran
A Green Beret from the Falklands
When the Royal Marines Experience opens at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, visitors will come face to face with a Green Beret worn in very different circumstances.
It belonged to Marine W.G.C. ‘Molly’ MacPherson, who served in 3 Troop, K Company, 42 Commando during the Falklands War.
During the conflict, some Royal Marines chose to wear Green Berets rather than helmets. Veterans have recalled the extraordinary confidence and pride they placed in the Green Beret, sometimes describing the feeling that it was ‘bulletproof’.
MacPherson wore his as he trekked across the Falklands, carrying the equipment needed to operate in challenging conditions.
For the men who earned it, the Green Beret represented far more than a piece of uniform.
What does it take to earn a Green Beret?
Royal Marines Commando training is designed to test physical ability, mental resilience and teamwork.
Among the final Commando Tests is the famous 30-miler across Dartmoor. Recruits must cover 30 miles in eight hours while carrying 21lb of equipment plus a rifle. Completing the Commando Tests earns recruits the right to wear the Green Beret.
At the new Royal Marines Experience, you’ll be able to get closer to this world for yourself.
Discover the stories of the people who have earned the Green Beret, come face to face with objects carried and worn during their service, and put yourself to the test through interactive challenges inspired by Royal Marines training.
Try the weight of the equipment. Test yourself with rope climbing, press-ups and sit-ups. Take on marching challenges and discover what Royal Marines training demands of the people who undertake it.
Then stand in front of MacPherson’s Green Beret and see an object that travelled with one Royal Marine through the Falklands War.
Get closer to the people behind the Green Beret
The new Royal Marines Experience opens at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard on 24 October, bringing together more than 360 years of Royal Marines history through personal stories, remarkable objects, immersive technology and interactive experiences.
Come face to face with the objects they carried, hear from the people who served and discover what the Green Beret has meant to generations of Royal Marines.