The maroon beret has been the international symbol of elite airborne forces since its selection for use by the airborne forces in Worl War II. This distinctive head dress was officially introduced in 1942, at the direction of General Frederick Browning, commander of the British 1st Airborne Division.. The maroon colour of the beret reportedly was chosen by his wife, the novelist Daphne du Maurier. It was first worn by the men of the Parachute Regiment when it went into action in North Africa during November 1942.