In this Image Provided by the National Archives, members of 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, an all-female, all-Black unit formed during World War II, are shown in an undated Department of Defense photo. (National Archives via, AP)
After decades in the shadows, a trailblazing World War II battalion is finally receiving its due recognition. The “Six Triple Eight,” officially known as the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, will be honored with the Congressional Gold Medal — one of the highest civilian awards in the United States. The tribute comes after years of advocacy for the unsung heroes.
Clearing Chaos with Dedication
In 1945, this unit was deployed to Europe amid a massive backlog of undelivered mail. With 17 million letters and packages piling up, morale among soldiers was suffering. The 6888th stepped in. Within three months — half the expected time — they cleared the entire backlog. Working in three around-the-clock shifts, they sorted roughly 65,000 items of mail per day.
Their precision and dedication not only ensured soldiers stayed connected with loved ones but also became a symbol of excellence under pressure.
Breaking Barriers in Uniform
Comprising 855 Black women, the battalion served both in England and France. Their formation followed growing calls from African American communities to allow Black women to join their white counterparts in the Women’s Army Corps overseas.
Despite their contribution, their efforts went largely unacknowledged for decades. Unlike many white military units of the time, the Six Triple Eight never received the same national attention or honor — until now.
A Long-Awaited Tribute for Six Triple Eight WWII All-Female Battalion
On Tuesday, their moment arrives. In a ceremony at the Capitol’s Emancipation Hall, House Speaker Mike Johnson and fellow lawmakers will present the Congressional Gold Medal. It will be awarded posthumously to the family of the battalion’s commanding officer, Lt. Col. Charity Adams Earley.
Of the original 855 members, only two are still living. Kim Guise of the National WWII Museum emphasized how delayed the recognition has been. “It’s really important to acknowledge what they endured to serve their country,” she said.
Lawmakers and Leaders Speak Out
Wisconsin Representative Gwen Moore, who co-sponsored the medal legislation, praised the battalion’s legacy. “These heroes deserve their dues,” she stated. Moore also highlighted the role of her constituent, Ms. Anna Mae Robertson, in keeping the story alive.
In 2022, Congress passed the bill with overwhelming support — a 422-0 vote. Retired Maj. Fannie Griffin McClendon, one of the two surviving members, expressed disbelief. “It’s overwhelming… I never even imagined this,” she said.
McClendon later became the first woman to command an all-male Air Force squadron. She reflected on her time with the battalion, recalling the enormous mailload and the fast turnaround they achieved. “They didn’t expect us to finish so quickly,” she said. “But we got it done.”
Legacy Lives On
Recognition for the 6888th has grown over time. A monument was built in 2018 at Fort Leavenworth. The unit received the Meritorious Unit Commendation in 2019. Their story has also inspired films, including a 2024 Netflix movie directed by Tyler Perry and starring Kerry Washington.
From forgotten heroes to nationally honored legends, the women of the Six Triple Eight have finally received the spotlight they long deserved.
