The Six Triple Eight, the only black, all-female unit that served in Europe during World War II, is set to receive the Congressional Gold Medal in recognition of its exceptional military service. This historic unit, formally known as the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, played a crucial role in resolving a significant mail crisis while stationed in England. Their remarkable efficiency saw them clear a backlog of approximately 17 million pieces of mail in just three months, surpassing all expectations.
Following their successful mission in England, the Six Triple Eight was deployed to France before returning home. Despite their significant contributions during the war, the unit’s accomplishments were often overshadowed by those of their white counterparts. However, the upcoming presentation of the Congressional Gold Medal aims to rectify this historical oversight and honor the unit’s legacy.
The ceremony, scheduled to take place at Emancipation Hall in the Capitol Visitor Center, will see the Congressional Gold Medal bestowed upon the family of Lt. Col. Charity Adams Earley, the unit’s commander. Kim Guise, a senior curator at the National WWII Museum, highlighted the significance of this recognition, especially considering that only two of the 855 women who served in the unit are still alive.
Rep. Gwen Moore, a co-sponsor of the legislation to award the medal to the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, expressed her pride in honoring the unit’s members for their invaluable service. The long-overdue recognition of these heroes symbolizes a significant milestone in acknowledging the sacrifices and achievements of black women in the military.
In a unanimous decision in 2022, Congress voted to bestow the Congressional Gold Medal upon the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, a moment that left retired Maj. Fannie Griffin McClendon, a 104-year-old World War II veteran, overwhelmed with emotion. McClendon, who served in the Air Force and made history as the first female to command an all-male squadron, reflected on the unexpected honor and the unit’s swift resolution of the mail crisis during the war.
The 6888th’s deployment overseas in 1945 marked a significant milestone in the inclusion of black women in the Women’s Army Corps, allowing them to serve alongside their white counterparts. The unit’s meticulous processing of approximately 65,000 pieces of mail per shift showcased their dedication and efficiency in ensuring that service members received their mail promptly.
Over the years, the remarkable story of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion has gained wider recognition, with tributes such as a monument at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, and the award of the Meritorious Unit Commendation in 2019. A documentary titled “The Six Triple Eight” shed light on the unit’s extraordinary achievements, further solidifying their place in history. Additionally, a movie directed by Tyler Perry in 2024, starring Kerry Washington, brought their inspiring story to a broader audience.
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