Her War - Her Story: The Women of the “Six Triple Eight” During World War II

The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, also known as the "Six Triple Eight," was a groundbreaking all-African American, all-female unit that played a crucial role in World War II by ensuring that mail delivery to U.S. military personnel was efficient and timely. The battalion was composed of 855 enlisted African American women and officers, led by Major Charity Edna Adams Early, who by the end of the war became the highest-ranking African American woman in the military. This unit was distinctive for being the only all-black, all-female battalion serving overseas during the war, embodying the motto "No mail, no morale"​​.

Initially formed to address a significant backlog of undelivered mail in European theaters, the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion embarked on their mission in early 1945, facing not just the logistical challenges of sorting and delivering millions of pieces of mail but also the additional hardships of racism and sexism. Despite these obstacles, they executed their duties with exceptional efficiency and dedication, clearing the mail backlog in Birmingham, England, before moving on to France to continue their mission​​.

Their work conditions were harsh, operating in cold, poorly-lit warehouses, yet they managed to complete their tasks ahead of schedule, demonstrating remarkable resilience and teamwork. The battalion was self-contained, managing its own logistics from mess halls to motor pools, and even had its own military police, chapel, and recreational activities, including sports teams and dances​​.

The legacy of the 6888th has been increasingly recognized in recent years, with members being awarded the European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal. The battalion has been honored in various ways, including the awarding of the Congressional Gold Medal in 2021, and has been the subject of documentaries, museum exhibits, and educational programs​​​​.

Despite their significant contributions, the return of the battalion to the United States in 1946 was met with little public recognition, and they were disbanded at Fort Dix, New Jersey, without the fanfare or acknowledgment their achievements deserved. However, the impact of their service and the barriers they broke down have continued to inspire and gain recognition over time, ensuring their place in history not just as servicewomen, but as pioneers for African American women in the military and beyond.

This March, we honor the “Six Trip Eight” Central Postal Directory Battalion, Deloris Ruddock, Anna Mae Robertson, and other amazing women in uniform.

The World War II Foundation documentary, "Her War, Her Story" brings to life the dedication of women who processed and delivered the mail during World War II and who served and sacrificed so valiantly. Their legacy is our inspiration.

Here’s a clip from the documentary.  Watch the full film to witness the power of women's contributions on and off the battlefield. 

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