History of the 6888 Battalion of World War Two
History of the 6888 Battalion of World War Two
Author(s):
Edited By
Type: Article
Country: Algeria
Language: English
Content:: Non Academic
Source: Other Sources
Timeline: The Contemporary Age - From 1789 to 2011
Published: 2023
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Summary
The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, also known as the "Six Triple Eight," was a historic all-black Women's Army Corps (WAC) unit that played a crucial role in World War II. The battalion was specifically formed to address a significant problem that had arisen during the war—the immense backlog of mail that had accumulated for American servicemen stationed in Europe
Description
The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, also known as the "Six Triple Eight," was a historic all-black Women's Army Corps (WAC) unit that played a crucial role in World War II. The battalion was specifically formed to address a significant problem that had arisen during the war the immense backlog of mail that had accumulated for American servicemen stationed in Europe.
The 6888th Battalion was activated on May 12, 1945, and was the only all-black female battalion to serve overseas during World War II. The unit was commanded by Major Charity Adams Earley, making her the highest-ranking African American woman officer in the WAC. The battalion consisted of approximately 855 enlisted women and officers, primarily hailing from the United States.
Upon arriving in Birmingham, England, the 6888th Battalion faced numerous challenges. The mail backlog was enormous, with millions of letters and packages accumulated over a period of months. The volume of mail was so overwhelming that it was stored in warehouses, hangars, and even makeshift tents. The task of the 6888th was to sort, process, and deliver the mail to ensure that American soldiers received their long-awaited correspondence.
The unit faced various obstacles, including language barriers, outdated addresses, and incorrect labeling on the packages. However, through their dedication, perseverance, and innovative methods, they successfully tackled these challenges. The women of the 6888th developed a system that involved meticulously sorting through each piece of mail and ensuring it reached the correct destination. They worked around the clock, sometimes seven days a week, to expedite the delivery process.
Their efforts paid off, and within a few months, the backlog of mail was cleared. The 6888th Battalion managed to process approximately 65,000 pieces of mail each shift, an impressive feat given the circumstances. Their efficiency and commitment earned them widespread recognition and respect from the soldiers they served.
After completing their mission in England, the 6888th Battalion was redeployed to Rouen, France, where they faced a similar situation. Again, they were tasked with sorting through a significant backlog of mail and ensuring its timely delivery. The unit repeated their success in Rouen, further solidifying their reputation as a highly capable and indispensable unit.
The 6888th Battalion's impact extended beyond their primary mission. Their exceptional performance shattered stereotypes and proved the capabilities of African American women in the military. Their service highlighted the importance of diversity and contributed to the eventual desegregation of the U.S. military in the post-war years.
Following the end of World War II, the 6888th Battalion was deactivated on March 14, 1946. The unit's achievements were largely overlooked for several decades, but their story gained renewed recognition and appreciation in later years. In 2009, the U.S. Postal Service issued a commemorative stamp in honor of the 6888th Battalion, recognizing their invaluable contribution during the war.
The 6888th Battalion's legacy stands as a testament to the strength, resilience, and determination of the African American women who served their country during World War II. Their actions paved the way for future generations of women in the military, and their story continues to inspire and empower people today.
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