Triple Nickle Remembrance Run

Event Overview

EVENT IS OPEN TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC. MILITARY AND CIVILIAN WELCOMED

The Tau Gamma Gamma Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated proudly presents the 2nd Triple Nickle Remembrance Run at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. This event is dedicated to honoring and preserving the legacy of the trailblazing Paratroopers who played a pivotal role in integrating Airborne operations into the U.S. Army.

The Legacy of the Triple Nickle

• First All-Black Unit: The 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion, known as the Triple Nickle, was the first all-Black airborne unit in U.S. military history.
• Historical Context: Formed in 1943 during World War II, marking a significant milestone in the ongoing fight for racial equality in the Armed Forces.
• Training Sites: Despite completing rigorous training at Fort Benning, Georgia, and Fort Bragg, North Carolina.
• Segregation Policies: The battalion was never deployed overseas due to segregation policies and the military’s reluctance to integrate Black Soldiers into combat units.

Operation Firefly: A Unique Mission

• Domestic Mission: In 1945, the Triple Nickle was tasked with Operation Firefly.
• Partnership: They partnered with the U.S. Forest Service to become Smokejumpers—elite Paratroopers who leaped into remote areas to combat wildfires.
• Fire Origins: Many fires were ignited by Japanese balloon bombs, designed to create chaos and divert wartime resources.
• Bravery and Adaptability: Over the course of the operation, the 555th completed more than 1,200 jumps, demonstrating exceptional bravery and adaptability in a non-traditional military role.

A Legacy of Courage and Change

• Integration into 82nd Airborne: The battalion was later absorbed into the 82nd Airborne Division.
• Military Integration: This paved the way for full military integration, officially enacted by President Truman in 1948.
• Symbol of Courage: The legacy of the Triple Nickle endures as a powerful symbol of courage, resilience, and the ongoing fight against racial discrimination.
• Join Us: Join us for the 5.55-mile run along Fort Bragg’s Liberty Trail as we honor these heroes and celebrate their lasting impact!

Frequently Asked Questions

• Are walkers and/or strollers welcomed or allowed? Absolutely! You have 2.5 hours to complete the race.
• Does everyone receive a shirt and finishers medal? Yes. If you registered, you would receive both. If you registered after August 8th, we cannot guarantee you will receive your requested shirt size, but we will do our best to accommodate you.
• How soon will virtual registrants receive their items? Items will be mailed within 7-10 days after race day. Each individual will receive an update once their items have been mailed.

Access to Fort Bragg

If you do not have access to Fort Bragg, please ensure you obtain a visitor pass from the All American Gate Visitors Center. Contact information is listed below. There is no additional charge for obtaining a pass.

Fort Bragg Visitor Center

• Phone: (910) 907-5165
• Address: 3550 All American Freeway, Fort Bragg (Fort Liberty), NC 28310
• Visitor Access Center: Visitor Access Center :: Fort Bragg

For more information about the event, visit Triple Nickle Remembrance Run.