All-female, mostly Black WWII unit honored with Congressional Gold Medal
Extended summary
Published: 01.05.2025
Introduction
The Congressional Gold Medal was awarded to the families of the “Six Triple Eight,” a historic all-female and predominantly Black military unit from World War II, during a ceremony held at the U.S. Capitol Visitor Center. This recognition highlights the significant contributions and sacrifices made by the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, which played a crucial role in addressing a major mail crisis during the war.
Significance of the Six Triple Eight
The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, commonly referred to as the Six Triple Eight, consisted of 855 women who were tasked with organizing and dispatching a backlog of approximately 17 million pieces of mail while stationed in England. Their remarkable efficiency allowed them to clear this overwhelming stockpile within just three months, a feat that exceeded military expectations. This unit not only addressed logistical challenges but also fostered morale among troops by ensuring they received correspondence from loved ones.
Ceremony Highlights
During the ceremony, Frances "Toni" Murphy Draper, CEO of AFRO American Newspapers, delivered an invocation that honored the legacy of the unit's members. Draper emphasized the harsh conditions under which the women served, including cold, dark warehouses and the constant threat of bombs. She expressed hope that this moment of recognition would bring healing and pride, highlighting the importance of remembering acts of valor and sacrifice.
House Speaker Mike Johnson also acknowledged the significance of the occasion, noting the presence of over 300 descendants and family members of the Six Triple Eight. He presented the Congressional Gold Medal to the family of Lt. Col. Charity Adams Earley, the unit's commander. Johnson underscored that the medal represents one of the highest honors bestowed by Congress, recognizing those whose courage and service have profoundly influenced the nation’s history.
Recognition and Legacy
The Congressional Gold Medal was awarded to the Six Triple Eight following a unanimous vote in Congress in February 2022, reflecting a growing recognition of the unit's contributions. This medal serves as a symbol of the enduring impact these women had on American history and culture. Representative Gwen Moore, who co-sponsored the legislation for the medal, remarked on the significance of honoring these "unsung heroes" who served their country out of patriotism, rather than for recognition.
During World War II, the military was racially segregated, but advocacy from Black American organizations eventually led to the inclusion of Black women in the Women’s Army Corps. The Six Triple Eight processed an impressive 65,000 pieces of mail during each of their three shifts, implementing an efficient system to ensure that mail reached service members promptly.
Recent Cultural Impact
The story of the Six Triple Eight has gained renewed attention in popular culture, particularly with the release of a Netflix film titled "The Six Triple Eight," directed by Tyler Perry and featuring actress Kerry Washington. Additionally, a monument honoring the unit was erected at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, in 2018, and in 2019, the unit received the Meritorious Unit Commendation for their exceptional service.
Conclusion
The awarding of the Congressional Gold Medal to the families of the Six Triple Eight marks a significant acknowledgment of the contributions made by this remarkable unit. Their story serves as a reminder of the complexities of American history, particularly regarding race and gender in the military. As society continues to reflect on the contributions of marginalized groups, the recognition of the Six Triple Eight stands as a testament to the importance of inclusivity and remembrance in shaping the narrative of the nation.