On April 29, 2025, the United States Congress awarded the Congressional Gold Medal—its highest civilian honor—to the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, known as the “Six Triple Eight.” This all-Black, all-female unit served overseas during World War II, clearing a massive backlog of undelivered mail and boosting troop morale.
The Mission: “No Mail, Low Morale”
In 1945, the U.S. Army faced a crisis: over 17 million pieces of undelivered mail were piled up in European warehouses, threatening the morale of American troops. The Six Triple Eight, comprising 855 women from the Women’s Army Corps, was deployed to Birmingham, England, to resolve this issue. Working in three shifts around the clock, they developed an innovative tracking system using locator cards and processed approximately 65,000 pieces of mail per shift. They completed the task in just three months—half the projected time.
Overcoming Adversity
The Six Triple Eight operated under challenging conditions, including unheated facilities and the constant threat of enemy attacks. They also faced systemic racism and sexism, both within the military and society at large. Despite these obstacles, their dedication ensured that soldiers received long-awaited letters from home, significantly boosting morale on the front lines.
Recognition at Last
For decades, the contributions of the Six Triple Eight went largely unrecognized. Advocates like retired Army Col. Edna Cummings worked tirelessly to bring their story to light. In 2022, Congress passed legislation to award the unit the Congressional Gold Medal, and the formal ceremony took place in 2025. Only two surviving members witnessed the honor, accepted on behalf of the unit by Stanley Earley II, son of commanding officer Lt. Col. Charity Adams Earley.
Legacy and Cultural Impact
The story of the Six Triple Eight has inspired books, documentaries, and a 2024 Netflix film directed by Tyler Perry and starring Kerry Washington. Monuments have been erected in their honor, including one at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. Their legacy continues to inspire future generations, highlighting the crucial role of Black women in military history.
The recognition of the Six Triple Eight serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of acknowledging the diverse contributions that have shaped our nation’s history.
