Dolly Parton honors US Special Forces in special rendition of 'Ballad of the Green Beret'

Country music icon Dolly Parton paid homage to American special forces with an emotional rendition of her song, Ballad of the Green Berets.

The legendary musician recorded the song for her 2003 album, Fod God And Country, as reported by Classic Country Music.

A patriotic ballad dedicated to the U.S. Army elite special force team, the song was originally recorded by SSGT. Barry Sadler in 1966.

Sadler, who was a medic in the Vietnam War, co-wrote the song with Robin Moore.

It became a hit soon after it was released, peaking at number one on the Hot 100 chart. The song cast the military in a positive light.

Parton recorded the song again in honor of the special forces.

"The guys in special forces are usually the first ones into the war and often the last ones out," Parton said, as quoted by Classic Country Music.

"Imagine going into a hostile country, lightly armed, and with just a few men. What they do is so secret, they never get the recognition they deserve and this is the one time I want them to know they're appreciated," she added.

The singer is known for promoting good causes. She has established the Imagination Library, which gives books to newborns until they reach kindergarten.

The past few years have seen her getting deeply involved with children. Her recent album, in fact, was meant to raise money to provide more books to more children.

Born Dolly Rebecca Parton, the singer rose to stardom with the success of her album debut, Hello, I'm Dolly, in 1967.

For achieving unprecedented success in country music, Parton is the most honored female country performer of all time.

Among her several accolades are nine Grammy awards, 10 Country Music Association Awards, seven Academy of Country Music Awards, and three American Music Awards.

She was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1999.

Parton has composed over 3,000 songs throughout her career. Among the most notable songs which she has composed are I Will Always Love You - which became Whitney Houston's international pop hit - and Coat of Many Colors.