6888TH CENTRAL DIRECTORY BATTALION
The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, nicknamed "Six Triple Eight", was the only all-Black, all-female unit to serve overseas during World War II. This unit, with 855 women, was tasked with sorting and routing mail for millions of American service members and civilians in Europe. Their motto, "No Mail, Low Morale," highlighted the importance of their mission to boost troop morale by delivering much-needed mail.
The battalion's primary objective was to clear a massive backlog of mail in the European Theater of Operations. They worked in Birmingham, England, Rouen, and Paris, France.
Despite facing challenges like poor working conditions (cold, damp hangars, lack of lighting) and prejudice, they efficiently processed mail, averaging 65,000 pieces per shift, and completed their tasks ahead of schedule.
The 6888th was inducted into the Army Women's Foundation Hall of Fame. They were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in 2022 for their exceptional service, according to the National Archives (.gov). Their story is a powerful testament to the courage, resilience, and contributions of Black women in WWII.