Joe Harris, who served as a sergeant in the all-Black 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion during World War II, died on March 15 at the age of 108. His unit, known as the Triple Nickles, was formed amid segregation in the military and tasked with responding to forest fires caused by Japanese balloon bombs. Despite not serving overseas, the battalion was notable for its role in early military desegregation efforts. Harris's death underscores the contributions of Black soldiers during a pivotal era in American history.
Joe Harris, who parachuted into forest fires during World War II as part of the all-Black 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion, passed away at the age of 108.
His death marks the loss of a historic figure, highlighting the role of Black service members in WWII, particularly those in segregated units like the Triple Nickles.
The 555th was formed as a response to segregation in the military and was emblematic of the slow progression towards desegregation within armed forces.
Harris's unit, the Triple Nickles, was crucial in combating forest fires caused by Japanese balloon bombs, an often-overlooked chapter in military and environmental history.
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