The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion was the only unit of Black women to serve overseas during World War II. On April 28, 2018, they proudly accepted the honor of the distinguished Congressional Gold Medal in a ceremony witnessed by over 300 descendants and family members. This historic commendation comes three years after President Joe Biden signed the Six Triple Eight Congressional Gold Medal Act into law. The act was finally signed in 2022.
The 6888th Equalization Battalion, created for the Women’s Army Corps in 1944. It uniquely featured a cohort of 855 women of color, composed of 824 enlisted soldiers and 31 officers. One such woman was Charity Adams-Earley, who became the highest-ranking Black female officer during the war. Initially their mission consisted of tackling a giant pile of overdue letters at a distribution hub in Birmingham, England. Even military leadership’s original estimates set the time to complete this task within a six-month horizon.
Overcoming Challenges
The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion exceeded expectations by finishing the sorting in just three months. To meet the unique challenge of delivering mail to people with similar names, they introduced an innovative fixture divider system. This effort encompassed issuing seven million ID cards.
House Speaker Mike Johnson underscored their ingenuity during the ceremony, pointing out the unusual circumstances they endured. He noted, “They didn’t have the high-tech gadgets we do today.” This statement underscores the merit and resourcefulness of the battalion members’ resolve. These musicians traveled constantly in the war zone to raise morale for the men serving overseas.
Their rallying cry, “No Mail, Low Morale,” conveyed the stakes and sense of purpose behind their fight. These women realized that hearing from home could have an enormous impact on morale at one of life’s most uncertain times.
Cultural Impact and Recognition
The legacy of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion has received a second act of inspiration through cultural representation. The documentary, along with a fictional film currently in development — called “Six Triple Eight” and directed by Tyler Perry — brought renewed attention to the unit. This powerful film illuminates the incredible roles women played in World War II. The film has been hailed by critics across the board and took home the NAACP’s Image Awards for Outstanding Motion Picture and Outstanding Ensemble Cast in a Motion Picture back in 2025.
This battalion’s story shows the indispensable contributions of women and people of color to the military’s past and present. Their roles during times of conflict like today are worth remembering, as are their fragility and importance. By introducing their history to a wider audience, the film hopes to inspire future generations.
Honoring Their Legacy
The Congressional Gold Medal recognizes the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion. It honors their exceptional contribution and steadfast commitment. This historic event not only honors their contributions but serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of diversity and inclusion in the military.
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