3rd Annual Triple Nickle Remembrance Run

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 3rd 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

The 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion, known as the Triple Nickle, was the first all-Black airborne unit in U.S. military history. Formed in 1943 during World War II, the battalion marked a significant milestone in the ongoing fight for racial equality in the Armed Forces. Despite completing rigorous training at Fort Benning, Georgia, and Fort Bragg, North Carolina, the 555th 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

In 1945, the Triple Nickle was tasked with a critical domestic mission: Operation Firefly. Partnering with the U.S. Forest Service, they became Smokejumpers—elite Paratroopers who leaped into remote areas to combat wildfires. Many of these fires were ignited by Japanese balloon bombs, designed to create chaos and divert wartime resources. 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

The battalion was later absorbed into the 82nd Airborne Division, paving the way for full military integration, officially enacted by President Truman in 1948. The legacy of the Triple Nickle endures as a powerful symbol of courage, resilience, and the ongoing fight against racial discrimination.

Join us for the 5.55-mile run along Fort Bragg’s Liberty Trail as we honor these heroes and celebrate their lasting impact!

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Frequently Asked Question:

1. Are walkers and/or strollers welcomed or allowed? 
   • Absolutely! You have 2.5 hours to complete the race 
2. Does everyone receive a shirt and finishers medal?
   • Yes. If you registered AND completed the event you will receive both. Shirt sizes are on a first come first serve basis as items are preordered. 
3. How soon will virtual registrants receive their items?
   • We aim to begin shipping virtual packets within 2 weeks of race execution.
4. When is packet packet pickup?
   • Packet pickup will be the Thursday and Friday before the event. 3:00pm - 6:00pm at Fleet Feet (3108 Raeford Road, Fayetteville, NC)
5. Is same day packet pickup available?
   • No. If you cannot pickup your packet during the two days allotted we cannot accommodate same day packet pickup under any circumstances.
6. What happens to my items if I register and cannot participate for any reason?
   • Your items will be donated if you cannot make the timelines provided. If you would like your items to be mailed YOU must transfer your registration via your runsignup account from in person to virtual and pay the difference. This must be completed no later than August 4th, 2027. No exceptions. 
7. If I attend packet pickup but do not attend the race am I still able to retrieve the finisher's medal?
   • No
8. Can I pick up a packet for someone else? 
   • Yes. You must provide a picture of their photo ID OR a picture of their race registration confirmation.
9. If inclement weather is on the forecast will the race still happen?
   • Unless their is a significant hazard to the staff and participants (ie: lightning, flood warning, etc.) the race will commence. If you choose to not participate due to weather your finisher's medal will be donated. No exceptions.
10. How soon will my race time be posted?
    • Your race time will be posted same day
11. How soon will race photos be posted?
    • Within 10 days after the race concludes

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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

(910) 907-5165

3550 ALL AMERICAN FREEWAY

FORT BRAGG (FORT LIBERTY), NC 28310

Visitor Access Center :: Fort Bragg