Heritage Distilling has unveiled its latest Salute Series premium whiskey honoring the U.S. Army Special Forces, commonly known as Green Berets. The new release, named De Oppresso Liber after the Green Berets’ motto, meaning “to free the oppressed,” continues the company’s tradition of creating spirits that recognize military service.
The limited-edition bourbon is bottled at a significant 122 proof (61% ABV), commemorating 1961, the year President John F. Kennedy authorized the green beret as the official headgear for the Special Forces Regiment.
“Our latest Special Operations Salute ‘De Oppresso Liber’ bourbon honors the more than six decades of service and sacrifice of U.S. Army Special Forces warriors, known as the Green Berets,” said Heritage Co-founder and U.S. Army Veteran Drew Kellerman. “Since 1961 the Green Berets have led the way in unconventional warfare, counterinsurgency, and other strategic operations.”
Supporting the Green Beret Foundation
Heritage has partnered with the Green Beret Foundation for this release, pledging to donate $20 from each bottle sold. If all 5,000 bottles in the production run sell, the donation would exceed $100,000.
Charlie Iacono, President and CEO of the Green Beret Foundation, expressed appreciation for the partnership, saying, “We are honored to once again partner with Heritage Distilling Company to launch another Salute Series premium whiskey, this time celebrating the enduring bond between President John F. Kennedy and the U.S. Army Special Forces.
“It was President Kennedy’s 1961 visit to Fort Bragg that marked a pivotal moment in American military history, affirming the unique role of the Green Berets and authorizing the wear of the now-iconic green beret. As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States Army this year, we also proudly honor more than six decades of extraordinary service, sacrifice, and valor from generations of Green Berets.
“At the Green Beret Foundation, we are committed to supporting these elite warriors and their families—past, present, and future—ensuring they have the resources, opportunities, and strength to pursue all that life has to offer during and after their service to our great Nation.”
The foundation supports U.S. Army Special Forces soldiers, veterans, and their families by connecting them with resources to “prosper and thrive.”
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Heritage Distilling Co. De Oppresso Liber Whiskey
The whiskey itself is a 5-year Kentucky straight bourbon, retailing for $145 per bottle plus tax and shipping. Each purchase includes a complimentary limited-edition lithograph by U.S. Army veteran and Special Forces Regiment Alumnus, Michael Solovey.
The artwork features President Kennedy and General William P. Yarborough, commemorating Kennedy’s historic 1961 visit to Fort Bragg.
Heritage expects to generate more than $500,000 in revenue if the entire production run sells. The bourbon is available through HeritageDistilling.com with shipping to 47 states via licensed retail partners.
This launch adds to Heritage’s growing Salute Series, which has already donated more than $200,000 to military and first responder charities over the past 18 months. Other releases in the series include War Dogs, US Army Special Operations Salute bourbon, and commemorative bottles for the 80th anniversaries of the Battle of Iwo Jima and D-Day.