Delaware House honors 6888th Central Postal Battalion contributions to World War II

In a historic session of the Delaware House of Representatives, lawmakers gathered to honor the remarkable legacy of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the only all African American, all-female unit deployed to Europe during World War II. The meeting, held on March 27, 2025, was marked by a passionate discussion about a bill aimed at recognizing the contributions of these unsung heroes.

As the session unfolded, the air was filled with a sense of reverence for the women who served in the 6888th Battalion. In 1944, the U.S. War Department lifted restrictions on African American women in the Women's Army Corps, paving the way for this trailblazing unit. Comprising 855 African American women, the battalion was tasked with clearing a staggering backlog of seven million pieces of mail for the American military and other organizations stationed in Europe.

The journey of the 6888th was fraught with peril. After training in Georgia, they set sail for Britain in February 1945, facing close encounters with Nazi U-boats. Upon arrival, they were met with horrific working conditions in Birmingham, where they processed an average of 65,000 pieces of mail per shift, ultimately clearing a six-month backlog in just three months. Their motto, "No Mail, Low Morale," underscored their vital role in maintaining troop spirits during the war.

Despite their significant contributions, the battalion had long been overlooked, lacking an official memorial at Arlington National Cemetery until recent years. In 2019, they received a unit commendation, and in 2022, they were awarded the Congressional Gold Medal, the nation's highest civilian honor. This recognition culminated in a planned ceremony in Washington, D.C., where descendants of the battalion would finally receive the medals.

During the session, representatives took a moment to acknowledge the Delawareans who served in the battalion, including Corporal Grace Evelyn Bridal and Private Evelyn Rachel Griffith. The bill's sponsor emphasized the importance of celebrating these women's contributions, not only to World War II but also to the shaping of America's future.

As the roll call concluded with unanimous support for the bill, the atmosphere was charged with a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. The session served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the women of the 6888th Battalion and the ongoing need to honor their legacy. As the meeting adjourned, the call to action was clear: to remember and celebrate the extraordinary women who played a crucial role in history, ensuring that their stories are never forgotten.