US Congress Honors Black Women's Battalion with Congressional Gold Medal

washington - The 'Six Triple Eight' battalion, the only African-American female unit in WWII, receives the Congressional Gold Medal eighty years later for their heroic service.

US Congress Honors 'Six Triple Eight' Battalion

Decades after their service, the 'Six Triple Eight' battalion, the only African-American female unit in WWII, is finally being recognized for their extraordinary contributions with the Congressional Gold Medal.

Forgotten Heroes

In 1945, the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, nicknamed the 'Six Triple Eight', was tasked with clearing millions of undelivered mail in Europe. What started as a mundane administrative mission turned into a forgotten chapter of American history.

Long Overdue Recognition

Despite facing racism and bureaucratic obstacles, the women of the 'Six Triple Eight' worked tirelessly in inhumane conditions, working around the clock to fulfill their duty.

After years of advocacy, the battalion received a Meritorious Unit Commendation in 2019, followed by a Netflix documentary in 2024. However, the ultimate honor, the Congressional Gold Medal, was delayed until 2022.

Symbol of Recognition

The long-awaited ceremony to award the Congressional Gold Medal will not only honor the 'Six Triple Eight' women but also symbolize a broader acknowledgment of African-Americans and women in WWII history.

Kim Guise from the National WWII Museum emphasized the significance of this tribute, highlighting the historical weight and the dwindling number of surviving members from the original 855 women.

Historical Injustice

The delayed recognition sheds light on the systemic undervaluation of African-American women's contributions in American history, reflecting deep-rooted racism and gender inequality.