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Home > The Jefferson Exchange > The Triple Nickles: Black smokejumpers and paratroopers in Oregon
Podcast: The Jefferson Exchange
Episode:

The Triple Nickles: Black smokejumpers and paratroopers in Oregon
Category: News & Politics
Duration: 00:28:35
Publish Date: 2025-05-07 17:34:01
Description:
Dr. Bob Bartlett is an army veteran who tells the story of the all-Black 555th Army Parachute Infantry known as the "Triple Nickles."
Dr. Bob Bartlett is an army veteran who tells the story of the all-Black 555th Army Parachute Infantry known as the "Triple Nickles."( SOPBS)

The "Triple Nickles" was an army unit that became a pioneer in airborne operations, from firefighting to atomic warfare. As the Army pushed Black Soldiers to menial jobs, the Triple Nickles became the first Black parachute infantry battalion and found a welcoming home in the airborne community, and an important mission in Oregon during the war.

Joining the Exchange are two guests:

Murry Taylor is a retired smokejumper with the Bureau and Land Management and Forest Service in Oregon after 26 seasons. He's author of "Jumping Fire: A Smokejumpers Memoir of Fighting Wildfire."

Dr. Robert "Bob" Bartlett is a researcher, writer and storyteller. He holds a PhD in Leadership Studies from Gonzaga University and is a retired faculty member. He's also a veteran of the Vietnam War and life member of the 555th Parachute Infantry Association and National Smokejumpers Association. Bob has been telling the story of the 555th Triple Nickles for a decade.

Murry Taylor and JPR host Mike Green on May 7, 2025.
Murry Taylor and JPR host Mike Green on May 7, 2025.(JPR Senior Producer, Natalie Golay)

WATCH PBS STORY OF THE TRIPLE NICKLES (8 mins)
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