The Army’s 6888th Division: The Unsung Heroes of WWII
When it comes to World War II, we often focus on the brave soldiers fighting on the front lines, but numerous logistical challenges were critical to the troops’ well-being and morale. One of these challenges was the timely delivery of mail, which was crucial in boosting soldiers’ spirits and maintaining their connections to loved one’s back home. However, one particular unit stood out for its exceptional work – the Army’s 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, comprised entirely of African American women. In this post, we will explore the vital role of the 6888th Division during WWII, their challenges, and their lasting legacy on the U.S. military and society.
Background Information
During World War II, the United States government created the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) in March 1942 to recruit women into the military and free up men for combat duty. The WAAC became the Women’s Army Corps (WAC) in July 1943. Although military recruiters initially resisted, African American civic organizations and political leaders convinced the War Department to open the WAAC/WAC to African American women. However, African American women were required to serve in segregated units and quarters on Army bases.
African American women who wanted to join the WAAC/WAC faced numerous obstacles, including being refused enlistment applications and encountering ridicule and hostility for not conforming to gender roles. Despite their professional backgrounds and education, African American WACs were often assigned menial tasks such as cooking and cleaning.
African American WACs protested against this discrimination, and some staged sit-down strikes. Mary McLeod Bethune, a civil and women’s rights activist, played a crucial role in advocating for equal treatment for African American women in the WAC. Her efforts and those of other political leaders led to the formation of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion in December 1944, the first African American battalion to go to the European Theater. Major Charity Adams was selected as the battalion commander, and there was no difficulty in finding volunteers to fill the battalion’s rolls.
Role of the 6888th Division
The 6888th Postal Directory Battalion was the first and only all-Black Women’s Army Corps (WAC) battalion during World War II and comprised over 800 African-American women. Their mission was to clear a backlog of mail accumulated for 6 months in Europe, ensuring that soldiers received letters from their loved ones. The battalion traveled to England and France and worked tirelessly to sort and deliver millions of mail within three months. Their role was vital to maintaining the troops’ morale and providing a critical link between soldiers and their families back home.
Challenges
Six Triple Eight Division faced numerous obstacles; they were also required to work long hours under challenging conditions, often without proper rest or nourishment. Furthermore, the battalion faced racial discrimination and prejudice within the military. They were frequently denied access to basic facilities, such as restrooms and dining facilities. They also encountered hostility and resistance from some white soldiers and officers who were not willing to accept them as equals. Despite these challenges, the 6888th remained committed to its mission.
Legacy of the 6888th Division
Battalion members were honored with numerous medals for their service during World War II, including the World War II Victory Medal, the European African Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. In 2022, they were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, signed into law by President Biden. In addition to these honors, the battalion has been recognized at various events and memorials, including induction into the U.S. Army Women’s Foundation Hall of Fame and the dedication of a monument at Fort Leavenworth.
One remarkable legacy of those who served in the WAC during World War II is the continued service of African American women in the military in the decades following the war up to the present day. In World War II, African Americans accounted for 5.7% of all women in the WAC in 1943; as of 2020, they accounted for 34.1% of women in the Army.
The Bottom Line
Their service paved the way for future generations of African American women in the military. Their story inspires and educates people today through various commemorations and media projects. Only six members remain as of 2023, but their legacy and contributions will continue to inspire future generations.
