Speaker Johnson hosted a ceremony at the U.S. Capitol to present the Congressional Gold Medal to the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, famously known as the Six Triple Eight. This battalion was the first all-Black, all-female unit to serve overseas during World War II, clearing a massive backlog of 17 million pieces of mail in only three months, twice as fast as expected.
The event took place in Emancipation Hall and included speeches by several congressional leaders and military officials, with the medal accepted by Stanley Earley III and Judith Earley, children of Lieutenant Colonel Charity Adams Earley, on behalf of the 855 women who served in the unit.
Speaker Johnson remarked on the historical significance of the unit, emphasizing their role in maintaining high morale among troops during the war. He explained, “For all the importance of mail, millions of undelivered letters piled up in dark warehouses across Europe, and those letters might well have stayed there, were it not for the work of the women that we celebrate today.” He noted the technical challenges involved in clearing the backlog, requiring what he described as “great ingenuity.”
The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest honor awarded by Congress and is given to those whose contributions have had a significant impact on the nation. Johnson stated, “This ceremony reflects one of the highest and most cherished traditions of our republic.”
Two surviving members, Fannie McClendon and Anna Mae Robertson, were acknowledged, with Robertson celebrating her 101st birthday recently. The speaker closed with gratitude, acknowledging the unit’s contribution and resilience in the face of adversity.
The Six Triple Eight’s legacy continues to capture public imagination, with their story inspiring books, movies, and a broader recognition of their contributions during the war.
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