The Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA) is observing Black History Month. They are doing this by showcasing the military service of Black service members in history. The series will include articles and profiles of Black military units and service members. These individuals made notable contributions to the United States both before and after the Armed Forces desegregation in 1948.
One unit being highlighted is the 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion, also known as the ‘Triple Nickles’. This unit, consisting of 300 black soldiers, was based at Fort Mackall in North Carolina. In November 1944, the unit underwent reorganization and redesignation. The name ‘Triple Nickles’ came from their numerical designation and the fact that 17 of the original 20 members were from the 92nd Infantry (Buffalo) Division.
The Triple Nickles were the first all-Black airborne unit in the United States military. All members were volunteers. They were initially expected to serve a crucial role overseas during the Second World War. However, they were assigned to a classified mission on the home front, Operation Firefly.