Vietnam war ARVN PRU red beret fits U.S. head sizes 7-1/2 to 7-3/4, in good wearing condition. This wool beret has adjustable liner string and 2 air ventilating eyelets. The PRU machine embroidered Flash measures approximately 2.3" by 2" by 2.3. A valuable addition to your Vietnam War military memorabilia collection. 

During the Vietnam War, the Army of the Republic of Vietnam (ARVN) was the principal military force of the South Vietnamese government and fought against the communist forces of the Viet Cong and the North Vietnamese Army (NVA). The Provincial Reconnaissance Units (PRU) were a specialized paramilitary force within the ARVN. They were created in 1964 as a counterinsurgency unit and operated at the province and district levels. The PRU's primary mission was to gather intelligence, conduct counterinsurgency operations, and carry out raids and ambushes against Viet Cong forces.

The PRU consisted of highly trained personnel who received specialized training in intelligence gathering, small unit tactics, and unconventional warfare. They were known for their ability to blend in with the local population and gather information on Viet Cong activities. They often operated in plainclothes and worked closely with the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and other U.S. advisory personnel.

The PRU units were considered an effective force and played a significant role in the Vietnam War. Their missions included capturing or killing high-value targets, disrupting Viet Cong infrastructure, and conducting intelligence-led operations. However, they were also criticized for their alleged involvement in human rights abuses and extrajudicial killings.

The effectiveness of the ARVN, including the PRU, varied throughout the war. Despite their training and support from the United States, the ARVN faced numerous challenges, including corruption, poor leadership, and morale issues. Ultimately, the ARVN and its associated units, including the PRU, were not able to prevent the fall of South Vietnam to the communist forces in 1975.