TALLAHASSEE, FL (WTXL) - A former World War II Paratrooper is honored in the Capital City. The Florida House recognized J.J. Corbett Wednesday.
He's one of the last surviving members of the "Triple Nickel" smoke jumpers, America's first black paratroopers. The unit is also credited with playing a major role in desegregating the military.
Corbett is 93-years old and lives in Polk County. He says he still looks back on his time serving as a paratrooper: "It is fond memories for me especially the time in which I was in the 555 paratroop infantry battalion and the reason for that I had the experience where all my officers were like me they were black."
After his military service, he was a teacher and coach, who was twice named Florida Track Coach of the Year. Plus, he's a member of the Florida High School Athletic Association Hall of Fame.
