Sgt. Joe Harris, who passed away last month at the age of 108, was celebrated for his remarkable life and legacy during a service on Saturday at Lewis Metropolitan CME Church in Compton, California. Harris was believed to be the oldest surviving World War II paratrooper and a member of the 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion, known as the “Triple Nickles,” the first all-Black paratrooper unit in the U.S. Army.
Harris, born on June 19, 1916, in Westdale, Louisiana, joined the military in 1941. He was part of the Triple Nickles, a unit that played a crucial role in Operation Firefly, a secret mission to combat wildfires caused by Japanese balloon bombs in the Pacific Northwest. The unit made 1,200 jumps and became the first military smokejumpers, developing techniques for parachuting into wildfires and disarming explosives. Despite facing racial segregation in the military, Harris completed 72 combat jumps and was honorably discharged after a parachute accident.
At the funeral, Harris’ grandson, Ashton Pittman, described him as the family’s rock, noting his courage and kindness. “He served his country with courage, even when that same country didn’t always serve him in return,” Pittman said, as reported by the Los Angeles Times.
The service included full military honors, a World War II Willys Jeep escort, and a military aircraft flyover. Compton Mayor Emma Sharif announced plans to rename a street in Harris’ honor, highlighting his impact on the community. According to CNN, Harris’ story is a testament to the resilience and dedication of the Triple Nickles, who broke barriers and defied limits during a time of racial discrimination.
Harris is survived by his son, Pirate Joe Harris Sr., two daughters, Michaun Harris and La Tanya Pittman, and five grandchildren. His wife, Louise Harris, passed away in 1981. Harris’ legacy continues to inspire, as efforts like Operation Perseverance honor African American veterans’ contributions during World War II.
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