[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 40 (Monday, March 7, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E224]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       ``SIX TRIPLE EIGHT'' CONGRESSIONAL GOLD MEDAL ACT OF 2021

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                               speech of

                           HON. KWEISI MFUME

                              of maryland

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, February 28, 2022

  Mr. MFUME. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the legacy of the 
6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, known as the ``Six Triple 
Eight.'' I also rise to support S. 321, the legislation to award a 
Congressional Gold Medal in honor of the Battalion's patriotism, valor, 
and achievements.
  Since its first mission in 1945, the Six Triple Eight was comprised 
of 855 Black women including 824 enlisted personnel and 31 officers. 
Groundbreaking for the time, the Six Triple Eight was the only African 
American women's unit of its size to serve overseas during World War 
II. Most of the 6888th worked as postal clerks, but others were cooks, 
mechanics, and held support positions so that the 6888th was a self-
sufficient unit.
  The Six Triple Eight was led by Major Charity Edna Adams and trained 
for their overseas mission at Fort Oglethorpe in Georgia. In practice, 
the Battalion's assignment entailed more than ensuring the swift 
delivery of mail. Rather, the Battalion was also trained to identify 
enemies by air and sea, meet the physical demands of military service, 
and evacuate targeted ships.
  Amid war, the tenacity of these brave women never wavered. Rain or 
shine, day in and day out, the Six Triple Eight worked around the 
clock, operating under their motto, ``no mail, low morale.'' These 
women sacrificed despite knowing their return home would be to an 
America that still denied their basic rights and liberties.
  I am proud to support this measure that honors such a courageously 
driven Battalion of women and bestows them the highest expression of 
national appreciation Congress can grant.
  I urge swift passage of S. 321, the ``Six Triple Eight'' 
Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2021.

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