Joe Harris, oldest WWII paratrooper who paved way for Black soldiers, dies at 108
Briefly

Sgt. Joe Harris, a member of the 555th Paratrooper Battalion during World War II, passed away at the age of 108. He lived a life full of courage and compassion, as celebrated at his recent funeral where family, friends, and military members honored him through music and dance. Harris, remembered as a trailblazer during segregated times, leaves a lasting legacy within his family and community. Plans to rename a street after him reflect the deep respect he garnered throughout his life and career, illustrating his significant contributions to society and military history.
"He was a kind, caring, compassionate man," his daughter La Tanya Pittman told The Times. "He didn't let the fact that he was fighting for freedom during segregated times stop him from living his life."
"He was our rock, the foundation among which generations have been built," he said, referring to the legacy Harris left behind for his family.
"Holy smokes, man, he paved the way for people like myself," Garrison said, expressing the emotional weight of Harris' sacrifices for future generations.
The funeral service felt like a homecoming - one last leap for Harris into the unknown, signifying the celebration of his life and legacy.
Read at Los Angeles Times
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