The Six Triple Eight
7.7
During World War II, the U.S. Army faced numerous challenges, including the immense task of managing the overwhelming amount of mail for its soldiers. However, one battalion stood out not only for its dedication but also for its historic significance: the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion. This all-Black, all-female unit was entrusted with an impossible mission that seemed insurmountable. The battalion’s task was to sort through a staggering backlog of 17 million pieces of undelivered mail that had accumulated over the past three years. The soldiers were given just six months to complete the mission, a tight deadline that only intensified the pressure they faced.
The 6888th Battalion was a groundbreaking force, composed of African American women who defied the racial and gender norms of the time. These women, many of whom had faced discrimination in civilian life, were now serving their country in a pivotal role. They were assigned to England and later to France, where they were stationed in harsh conditions, yet their commitment to the mission never wavered. With limited resources and a backlog that seemed impossible to overcome, the women worked tirelessly to sort, organize, and deliver the mail to soldiers across Europe.
Their efforts were not only critical to the morale of the American troops, who had been separated from their families and loved ones for years, but they also proved the resilience and determination of the women of the 6888th. Despite facing numerous challenges, including isolation, prejudice, and a lack of recognition, the battalion completed the mission ahead of schedule, delivering millions of letters and packages to the soldiers.
The 6888th Battalion’s success is a powerful testament to the bravery, perseverance, and dedication of these women, whose contributions were often overlooked in history. Their work helped to uplift the spirits of countless soldiers and left a lasting legacy, showing the world the critical role of women and African Americans in wartime efforts.
Director: Aleshia Mueller, Craig Topham, Derrick Doose, Josh Goodman, Julija Mickėnaitė, Patricia Sommer, Phoebe Hodgetts, Robin 'RK' Kempf, Tyler Perry
Cast: Austin Nichols, Baadja-Lyne Odums, Ben VanderMey, Brian Kurlander, Dean Norris, Ebony Obsidian, Gregg Sulkin, Jay Reeves, Jeanté Godlock, Jeffery Thomas Johnson, Kerry Washington, Kylie Jefferson
