A Trailblazing Soldier’s Legacy
Sgt. Joe Harris, one of the last surviving members of the Army’s first all-Black parachute infantry battalion, died March 15 at 108. The Triple Nickels veteran spent his final days surrounded by family in Los Angeles.
“He was a very loving, loving, loving man,” grandson Ashton Pittman told AP. Harris insisted his family carry forward that same compassion throughout their lives.
The Triple Nickels’ Critical Mission
Harris served in the historic 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion during World War II. The unit had a unique combat role – defending America’s West Coast from Japanese fire balloons.
These weaponized balloons traveled via jet stream to start forest fires. Historian Robert Bartlett explains the battalion fought both foreign threats and domestic racism simultaneously.
Fighting Two Wars at Once
While protecting America, Harris faced segregation daily. Black soldiers were barred from base commissaries and officers’ clubs. The military maintained these racist policies to appease white prejudice.
“There was no strategic reason for segregation,” author Matthew Delmont told NPR. Black soldiers had to demand their country live up to its ideals while defending it.
A Lifetime of Service and Love
Harris leaves behind three children and five grandchildren. His wife Louise preceded him in death in 1981. Family remembers his deep patriotism despite America’s flaws.
“He served when the country didn’t love him,” Pittman said. The family plans to celebrate Harris’ remarkable life as he would have wanted.
Honoring a Hidden Hero
The Triple Nickels’ story represents Black Americans’ complex wartime experience. They fought overseas enemies while battling racism at home.
Harris’ 108-year life spanned incredible social change. His service helped pave the way for future generations of Black soldiers.
