Members of the first all African-American unit of the United States Army. (From Left to Right) Roger Walden, Walter Morris, Clarence Beavers.
On Thursday afternoon, a crowd gathered in the Pentagon Auditorium to recognize the efforts of the 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion, which was activated in Dec. 1943.
Why the big to-do? The “Triple Nickles” became the first all-African American unit of the United States.
Three members of the original test platoon were present: Walter Morris, Roger Walden and Clarence Beavers. As Michele Jones, guest speaker and former Command Sgt. Maj. of the U.S. Army Reserve noted, these men are part of history.
Jones, also a paratrooper, spoke to the men, saying they created a legacy, proving that nothing is impossible.
“They kicked open the door – they took the door off the hinges,” said Jones. “Today, history is truly among us.”
Originally serving in military jobs such as drivers, kitchen duty and moving ammunitions, these men started training themselves. After traditional airborne units finished their training in the afternoons, the Triple Nickles would use the same field to train in jump techniques.
555th Parachute Infantry Battalion prepares for take-off.
The unit was officially recognized in 1943 and moved from Fort Benning, Ga., to Camp Mackall, N.C. Later, the unit became part of the 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C.
During World War II, the unit served as “Smoke Jumpers,” to combat fires started by Japanese bombs. Although this threat did not materialize, the paratroopers fought in other fire-fighting missions in the Pacific Northwest.
“Can you go back (in history) and say thank you?” said Jones. “It’s a rare occasion so today, I thank you – not just for me but for what you left me so I could hopefully continue your legacy.”
Joe Murchinson, president of the 555th Infantry Battalion and a retired Soldier of the 82nd Airborne Division also gave remarks during the ceremony. Wrapping up the ceremony, he said paratroopers are paratroopers, regardless of skin color.
“Most importantly, we’re all Americans… always have been, always will be.”
Submitted by Jessica Maxwell, Public Affairs Specialist, Online and Social Media
