“Please note that Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue from certain items via the included links.” The film “The Six Triple Eight,” now available on Netflix, pays homage to the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the sole all-Black, all-female battalion to serve overseas in World War II. Directed by Tyler Perry, the movie recounts the true story of these women tasked with sorting through millions of backlogged mail for U.S. soldiers in Europe. Despite their crucial role in the war effort, their contributions had been largely unrecognized until recently.
Under the command of Major Charity Adams (portrayed by Kerry Washington in the film), the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion faced various challenges. They not only encountered discrimination from their fellow Americans but also braved the constant threat of German attacks once stationed abroad. As veteran Anna Tarryk remarked, “First we had to fight segregation, second was the war, and third were the men.”
Tyler Perry’s ambitious film, while commendable, falls short in fully capturing the complexity of the pioneering women at its center. Little is revealed about Maj. Charity Adams or her comrades, including their motivations, sacrifices, and internal struggles. Below, you’ll find insights into the real women of the Six Triple Eight and the enduring legacy they forged.
The Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps was established in 1942, marking a significant shift in women’s roles within the military. While women had previously served as nurses or in support positions, the establishment of the WAAC during World War II expanded opportunities for women to contribute in non-combat capacities. This evolution culminated in the Women’s Army Corps and, eventually, the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act of 1948, granting women equal status with their male counterparts across various branches of the military.
At the age of 23, Charity Adams, a former junior high teacher from Columbia, South Carolina, responded to the call to serve, enticed by the prospects of career advancement and leadership roles. She made history as the first Black woman officer in the WAC, leading the renowned 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion—the Six Triple Eight—forever altering the military landscape.
In the movie, Adams’s ascent to her command position remains largely unexplored, overshadowed by her portrayal as a resolute leader preparing her team for the challenges ahead. The 6888th Battalion, as depicted in the Netflix production, shattered barriers within the military as the largest contingent of Black women deployed overseas during World War II. Comprising primarily African American women, with some members of Hispanic and Caribbean descent, aged between 17 and 52, these women showcased their capabilities in a predominantly male military environment.
Formed in December 1944 with a specific objective to clear a substantial backlog of undelivered mail for U.S. soldiers stationed abroad, the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion left an indelible mark on wartime history.
During World War II in Europe, the mail played a crucial role in boosting the morale of frontline troops with letters, photos, and gifts from loved ones. The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, comprised of Black women military personnel, participated in a parade in Rouen, France in 1945. This battalion was established in response to the Army’s initial refusal to send Black women overseas, despite their white counterparts being deployed. Notable figures like Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt advocated for change, leading to Black women finally being allowed to serve in Europe.
The 6888th, known as the Six Triple Eight, faced discrimination within the military system but demonstrated exceptional skill, dedication, and resilience. Major Charity Adams notably stood up to a white general who attempted to inspect her soldiers’ quarters during their shift, declaring, “Over my dead body, sir.” This act of defiance showcased the leadership and courage of the women of the 6888th.
Working diligently in challenging conditions, the 6888th operated in freezing warehouses in England, sorting through mail with rats and limited lighting. Despite these hardships, they processed an average of 65,000 pieces of mail per shift, clearing backlogs efficiently in both England and France. However, the film adaptation fails to fully portray the strategies and systems implemented by the battalion to manage such a monumental task.
Although the soldiers in the film show appreciation for the women upon receiving their mail, it took over 70 years for the 6888th to receive official recognition for their vital contributions. This delay in acknowledgement reflects the broader lack of recognition and even hostility faced by Black veterans in post-World War II America.
Historian Damani Davis, speaking to the National Archives, highlighted the stellar cast of the acclaimed series “The Six Triple Eight,” which includes Sarah Jeffrey portraying Dolores Washington, Pepi Sonuga as Elaine White, Milauna Jackson embodying Captain Campbell, Moriah Brown as Inez, Shanice Shantay playing Johnnie Mae, and Ebony Obsidian portraying Lena Derriecott King. This Netflix production sheds light on the remarkable story of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, a group of trailblazing African American women who played a crucial role in ensuring mail delivery to American service members during World War II.
One of the notable figures from the 6888th Battalion was Major Charity Adams, whose legacy extended far beyond her military service. Following the war, Adams pursued further education, earning a Master of Arts degree from Ohio State University. She transitioned into roles within academic administration while also actively engaging in community service initiatives. Notably, Adams founded the Black Leadership Development Program and collaborated with organizations such as the American Red Cross, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to serving others.
In recognition of her significant contributions to the war effort, the Smithsonian National Postal Museum honored Adams in 1996. Her dedication and impact were acknowledged by various institutions and individuals, solidifying her place in history as a trailblazer and a role model for future generations. Tragically, Major Charity Adams passed away on January 13, 2002, at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy of courage, leadership, and service.
Reflecting on the dwindling number of living veterans from the 6888th Battalion, Netflix’s Tudum revealed that only two individuals, Fannie McClendon and Anna Mae Robertson, remain. These individuals, who embody the spirit of resilience and determination that defined the 6888th, serve as living testaments to the bravery and sacrifices of all those who served in that pioneering unit.
The story of the 6888th Battalion continues to inspire and educate audiences about the often-overlooked contributions of African American women during World War II. Through their dedication, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to duty, these women shattered barriers and paved the way for future generations. Their story serves as a reminder of the untold narratives of courage and resilience that exist within the annals of history, waiting to be discovered and celebrated.
In a world where stories of heroism and sacrifice often go untold, the legacy of the 6888th Battalion stands as a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding us of the indomitable spirit of those who faced adversity with grace and courage. As we honor the memory of Major Charity Adams and her fellow servicewomen, we pay tribute to their enduring legacy and the profound impact they had on shaping our collective history.
