Honoring History: The WWII Female Unit Receives Congressional Medal 80 Years Later for Their Courageous Service Abroad

The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, or the Six Triple Eight, holds a remarkable place in history. This was the only all-female unit to serve overseas during World War II. Now, 80 years later, their extraordinary contributions are being recognized with a Congressional Gold Medal.

In early 1945, the Six Triple Eight arrived in Birmingham, England. Their mission? To sort through an overwhelming backlog of nearly 17 million pieces of undelivered mail meant for American soldiers and government staff in Europe. Many of these individuals hadn’t heard from loved ones in months, adding to their frustrations.

When the women began their work, they faced daunting conditions. One general estimated it would take six months to handle the mail. However, the Six Triple Eight accomplished the task in just three months, boosting morale among troops. Their motto, “no mail, low morale,” reflected their commitment.

Once the war ended in Europe, the unit moved on to Rouen and Paris, continuing their vital work. Despite their success, they returned to the U.S. in 1946 without a public recognition ceremony or a warm welcome—a detail that would change over the years as their story gained more attention.

Their contributions led to a Meritorious Unit Commendation in 2019, and filmmakers have sought to tell their story, with notable figures like Tyler Perry involved. Additionally, social movements and civil rights groups have advocated for better recognition of the sacrifices made by Black women in the military.

A troubling recent trend was the removal of the battalion’s information from government websites, but advocates rallied, and some content has been restored. Today, 14 members of the battalion are buried at Arlington National Cemetery, a testament to their legacy.

Interestingly, only about 6,500 of the 140,000 women who served in the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) during WWII were Black, largely due to segregation policies. Major Charity Adams, who led the battalion, became the highest-ranking Black Army officer during the war. The battalion broke barriers, challenging the norms of sexism and racism that persisted not just in society but also within military ranks.

While the Six Triple Eight faced obstacles—inadequate facilities, prejudice from fellow soldiers—they organized their own events and supported one another. After the war, they were recognized with medals, but not with the fanfare they deserved.

The story of the Six Triple Eight highlights the difficulties they faced and the significant role they played in history. Public awareness has grown, helping shine a light on their sacrifices and achievements.

As we honor the lives and legacies of these women today, their journey reminds us of the importance of recognizing all veterans, particularly those who broke down barriers for future generations.

For further information about the Six Triple Eight, visit the National Museum of the United States Army.

Let’s remember their courage and tenacity as we continue to learn about and appreciate their contributions to our history.

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