‘Triple Nickel’ Exhibit Opens

State Senators Serphin Maltese (Glendale) and Malcolm Smith (St. Albans) attend the unveiling of the "Triple Nickel–Any Time, Any Place, Any Where" exhibit, which highlights the heroism of the 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion during World War II, at the New York State Vietnam Memorial. The battalion was formed in 1943 when the nation’s military was still racially segregated. In addition to other acts of gallantry, the 555’s mission was to seek and destroy all Japanese incendiary balloon bombs. The 555th Parachute Infantry Battalion Color Guard, many of whom are from Queens, kicked off the ceremony.