The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, known as the “Six Triple Eight,” will receive the Congressional Gold Medal on Tuesday, recognizing its unique contributions during World War II. This all-Black, all-female unit was the only one to serve in Europe, addressing a significant mail crisis by clearing a backlog of approximately 17 million pieces of mail in just three months—twice the expected rate. Their efforts served as an inspiration for future generations of Black women in the military.
The ceremony will take place in Emancipation Hall at the Capitol Visitor Center, where House Speaker Mike Johnson will present the medal to the family of unit commander Lt. Col. Charity Adams Earley. Kim Guise, a curator at the National WWII Museum, highlighted that only two out of 855 original members are still alive, underscoring the delayed recognition of these women’s sacrifices. Wisconsin Rep. Gwen Moore, who co-sponsored the medal legislation, expressed that this honor is long overdue as their achievements and selfless service deserve acknowledgment.
In 2022, Congress unanimously approved the medal, marking a significant step in recognizing the unit’s historical importance. Retired Maj. Fannie Griffin McClendon remarked on the overwhelming nature of this recognition, recalling that the unit effectively organized the mail under immense pressure. The 6888th processed around 65,000 pieces of mail each shift, employing a system of locator cards to ensure proper delivery.
The unit’s legacy has slowly gained visibility, including the installation of a monument in 2018 and a documentary titled “The Six Triple Eight.” Additionally, a Netflix film directed by Tyler Perry is set to debut in 2024, further commemorating their remarkable service.
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