The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the only all-Black, all-female unit to serve in Europe during World War II, finally received the Congressional Gold Medal on Tuesday. This long-awaited honor recognizes their incredible service and the monumental task they undertook during the war.
This remarkable unit, affectionately known as the “Six Triple Eight,” faced the daunting challenge of clearing a massive backlog of military mail. Their mission was to untangle a mountain of approximately 17 million pieces of mail that had accumulated in England, a backlog hindering communication and morale for troops overseas. Against all odds, they completed this mission in just three months—twice as fast as initially projected. This efficiency demonstrated their unmatched dedication and organizational skills.
Their story, however, was largely untold for decades, overshadowed by the narratives of their white counterparts. The bravery and determination of these women, who served in England and later France, remained largely unrecognized until recent years. This oversight is a stark reminder of the historical injustices faced by Black service members in the military.
The Congressional Gold Medal, the highest civilian honor bestowed by Congress, is a fitting testament to the contributions of the 6888th. The ceremony, held in Emancipation Hall at the Capitol Visitor Center, saw the medal presented to the family of Lt. Col. Charity Adams Earley, the unit’s commander. House Speaker Mike Johnson and other officials were in attendance to honor the legacy of these extraordinary women.
The significance of this recognition extends beyond the 855 women who served. It serves as a powerful symbol of belated justice and a much-needed acknowledgment of their crucial role in the war effort. Their story inspires future generations of military personnel and underscores the importance of remembering and celebrating the contributions of all those who served, regardless of race or gender. The fact that only two women from the unit are still alive highlights the years it took for this well-deserved recognition to finally come to fruition.
The efforts of Representative Gwen Moore, who co-sponsored the legislation awarding the medal, played a crucial role in making this happen. Her dedication to ensuring the 6888th’s story was finally heard and their service recognized is commendable. The vote in 2022 to bestow the honor was unanimous, demonstrating the widespread support for this overdue recognition.
Beyond the Congressional Gold Medal, the unit’s story has gained recognition in other ways. A monument honoring them was erected in 2018, and in 2019 they received the Meritorious Unit Commendation. A documentary and a recent Netflix movie have further brought their story to light, ensuring that their contributions will not be forgotten.
The Six Triple Eight’s story is a powerful reminder of the resilience, dedication, and often-overlooked contributions of Black women in the military. Their finally receiving the Congressional Gold Medal is a victory that celebrates their legacy and ensures their heroism is acknowledged for generations to come.
