This podcast discusses the experiences of America's first all-black female battalion during World War II as they tackle the overwhelming task of handling mail to boost soldiers' morale. It explores the challenges faced by the women, their efficient mail sorting system, and their journey to receive recognition for their vital service.
The women of the 6th Triple-8 overcame racism, misogyny, and inadequate accommodations to successfully process a backlog of mail, bringing joy and connection to soldiers serving overseas.
Despite facing challenges and being largely forgotten after their service, efforts have been made in recent years to honor the women of the 6th Triple-8 through monuments, research projects, and formal recognition.
Deep dives
The Women of the 6th Triple-8: America's First All-Black Female Battalion
During World War II, the women of the 6th Triple-8, America's first all-black female battalion, were tasked with an overwhelming mission. They were responsible for sorting and delivering millions of letters and packages that had been backed up in warehouses for years. Despite facing racism, misogyny, and second-class treatment in a segregated army, these women worked tirelessly, sorting and sending 65,000 pieces of mail each day. Their dedication and resourcefulness allowed them to successfully process the backlog of mail, bringing joy and connection to countless soldiers serving overseas.
Overcoming Challenges and Finding Recognition
The women of the 6th Triple-8 faced numerous challenges, both within the military and in the communities where they served. They encountered racism, misogyny, sexual harassment, and inadequate accommodations. When three members of their battalion died, the military refused to pay for their burials, forcing their fellow soldiers to shoulder the cost. However, despite these challenges, the women persevered, working diligently to process the mail and bring a sense of normalcy to the soldiers. Sadly, after their service, the women were largely forgotten, with no formal recognition for their efforts until recent years.
Honoring Their Legacy
In recent years, efforts have been made to honor the women of the 6th Triple-8. A monument was erected in Leavenworth, Kansas, and their story has been shared through various research projects and websites. Some of the surviving members have been formally honored by the United States Senate and House of Representatives. Though it took time for their contributions to be recognized, their dedication and resilience serve as a testament to their legacy, reminding us of the importance of acknowledging the often overlooked heroes of history.