They represent the “Six-Triple-Eight,” the 6888th Postal Directory Battalion, and the only all-Black and all-female group to serve overseas.
The battalion served both in the U.S. and Europe where they sorted and routed mail for millions of American service members and civilians.
Like most African-American war heroes, the Six-Triple-Eight never received proper recognition.
But Sen. Jerry Moran, a Republican out of Kansas, has introduced legislation to award the Congressional Gold Medal to the Women’s Army Corps members.
Rep. Gwen Moore, a Wisconsin Democrat, introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.
“These brave women and their service to our country deserve a special spot in history and I will continue to work with my colleagues to make certain the Senate does its part in honoring their service and sacrifice,” Sen. Moran stated when he introduced the measure earlier this year.
Moore echoed his remarks.
“Let us not forget the incredible dedication of these women, like my constituent Anna Mae Robertson, who despite facing racism, sexism and working in austere conditions in a war zone, worked day and night to support our troops with the motto, ‘No Mail, Low Morale,’” she said.
The House still doesn’t have the votes to pass the companion bill but advocates remain hopeful. Of the original 855 members of the Six-Triple-Eight, just seven remain alive.
“It’s wonderful and it’s time,” said Stanley Earley III, son of late 6888th commander Lt. Col. Charity Adams Earley, in an interview on CNN this month.
“It should have happened 50, 60 years ago. But there is now the opportunity for recognition that these folks did all these things that were so important,” he said.
Three years ago, a monument honoring the Six-Triple-Eight rose in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.
The battalion earned recognition with the documentary, “The Six Triple Eight: No Mail, Low Morale.”
“When they returned home, their hard work and selfless service were not recognized. As a country, we can correct this wrong, ensure their story of sacrifice is told and give these women the honor they earned by awarding a Congressional Gold Medal to these heroes,” Moore said. “I am pleased to be joined by members from both sides of the aisle, including Senator Moran and Rep. Jake LaTurner, in introducing this legislation to honor these brave veterans.”
