A Cuban-American sergeant in the United States Army, known on TikTok as Gerar Reyes (@geraryiyi), recently released a video clarifying the purpose of the black American flag and dispelling rumors circulating on social media about its use. In the video, the 35-year-old military officer explains that the black flag is employed within the U.S. Army for various reasons, primarily during training sessions and combat deployments.
"When we engage in training, the black flag is used for camouflage purposes, allowing it to blend in more effectively with the surroundings," he stated, emphasizing that a traditional-colored flag would stand out too much in environments like the jungle or during nighttime operations. Additionally, he pointed out that this flag variant is advantageous in combat missions because it is reflective under night vision systems. "It stands out with a vivid green hue, enabling team members to recognize a soldier's presence in the area," he elaborated.
Furthermore, he mentioned that the black flag is utilized during deployments to combat zones, where soldiers must conduct military operations or special training in areas of conflict. The sergeant clarified that misunderstandings in various countries have fueled the controversy surrounding the black flag's usage.
A few months ago, he posted an initial video on this topic, which sparked significant reactions in countries like Venezuela, Colombia, Panama, and Mexico, where some internet users interpreted the use of the black flag as an aggressive gesture toward their nations. "I'm Latino, trust me when I say that my flag change has nothing to do with you," the Cuban-American asserted.
He also mentioned that his recent flag change is due to his upcoming deployment to Eastern Europe in 2025. "I literally stated in the video '2025, I'm ready for what you have in store for me,' because this year is going to be filled with many experiences," he explained.
In a more serious tone, the sergeant urged social media users not to misinterpret the information and reiterated his respect for Latin American countries. His video has sparked a significant debate online. While some users appreciate the clarification, others remain skeptical. However, Gerar hopes that this explanation will put an end to the controversy surrounding the use of the black flag in the U.S. Army.
Understanding the Use of the Black Flag in the U.S. Army
Why does the U.S. Army use a black flag?
The black flag is used for camouflage during training and combat missions, blending in with surroundings and being reflective under night vision, aiding in soldier identification.
Is the black flag considered aggressive towards other countries?
No, the black flag is not intended as an aggressive gesture. Misunderstandings have led to this perception, but it is primarily a practical tool for military operations.
What sparked the controversy over the black flag?
Controversy arose from social media misinterpretations, particularly in Latin American countries, where it was mistakenly seen as an aggressive symbol.