The only Black, all-female unit to serve in Europe during World War II received the Congressional Gold Medal on Tuesday. Commonly known as the “Six Triple Eight,” the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion was honored during a ceremony at the U.S. Capitol’s Emancipation Hall. This recognition comes after a long campaign to acknowledge their crucial wartime contributions.
House Speaker Mike Johnson presented the medal to family members of the unit’s commander, Lt. Col. Charity Adams Earley. Over 300 descendants of the women who served in the battalion attended the event. According to experts, only two women from the original 855 unit members are still alive today.
Black Women Warriors Solved Massive Mail Crisis During WWII Service
The Six Triple Eight made history by clearing a staggering backlog of about 17 million pieces of mail in just three months. This remarkable achievement was accomplished in half the time military leaders had projected. Their efficient system used locator cards with service members’ names and unit numbers.
Working around the clock in three shifts, the unit processed approximately 65,000 pieces of mail during each shift. Their dedication ensured that American soldiers received letters from loved ones, boosting morale during critical wartime operations. After serving in England, they continued their mission in France before returning home.
Like many Black units during World War II, their extraordinary service went largely unrecognized for decades. This oversight has finally been corrected with Congress’s highest civilian honor.
Congressional Leaders Unite to Award Long-Overdue Recognition
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer all delivered remarks at the ceremony. Their presence highlighted the bipartisan support for honoring these overlooked American heroes.
“With each passing day, we are slowly losing our ties to this great generation of men and women. It is our responsibility and solemn duty as citizens to preserve this heritage,” Johnson said during the event. At least two dozen members of Congress attended the ceremony.
Wisconsin Democratic Rep. Gwen Moore, who co-sponsored the legislation for the medal, called it a “long overdue honor” for the women. The Congressional vote in 2022 was unanimous, with lawmakers voting 422-0 to bestow the medal.
Pioneering Black Women Opened Doors for Future Generations
The 6888th was deployed overseas in 1945 during increasing pressure from African-American organizations. These groups fought for Black women to join the Women’s Army Corps and serve alongside white counterparts overseas.
Upon returning home, the Six Triple Eight members served as powerful role models. Their service inspired generations of Black women who later joined the military. Their groundbreaking achievements helped pave the way for greater inclusion in the armed forces.
Their story represents a crucial chapter in both military history and the fight for civil rights. These women served their country with distinction while facing the dual challenges of racism and sexism.
Six Triple Eight’s Legacy Grows Through Monuments and Media
Recognition for the 6888th has gradually increased in recent years. A monument honoring the unit was erected in 2018 at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. The following year, the battalion received the Meritorious Unit Commendation for their service.
The unit’s remarkable story reached wider audiences through the documentary “The Six Triple Eight.” Most recently, director Tyler Perry brought their story to Netflix in 2024. The film stars Kerry Washington and introduces the battalion’s achievements to new generations.
These media portrayals help ensure the Six Triple Eight’s contributions won’t be forgotten. From monuments to movies, their legacy continues to grow as more Americans learn about their extraordinary service.
Congressional Gold Medal Cements Historic Achievement in American Military History
The Congressional Gold Medal represents America’s highest civilian honor. Previous recipients include George Washington, the Tuskegee Airmen, and other distinguished Americans who made exceptional contributions to the nation.
For the women of the Six Triple Eight, this recognition affirms their place in American history. Their efficient postal system provided a crucial connection between soldiers and their families during wartime. This connection maintained morale when it was needed most.
The ceremony marks a meaningful step toward acknowledging the contributions of all who served. As military historians continue to uncover overlooked stories, the Six Triple Eight stands as a powerful example of service and sacrifice.
