[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 106 (Wednesday, June 22, 2022)]
[Senate]
[Pages S3067-S3068]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     TRIBUTE TO ANNA MAE ROBERTSON

  Ms. BALDWIN. Mr. President, I rise today to honor the life, career, 
and achievements of Anna Mae Robertson. Her service to the American 
people during World War II in the 6888th Central Postal Directory 
Battalion, known as the Six Triple Eight, is a shining example of hard 
work and courage in the face of cultural grievance.
  In her youth, Robertson lost her mother suddenly, leaving her and her 
brother alone. Her mother had instilled the values of hard work and 
service in her children, which inspired Anna Mae to devote her time and 
dedication to the U.S. Army. In service, she worked strenuous hours, 
filing over 65,000 pieces of mail for every shift. Robertson's 
battalion consisted solely of Black women who excelled at their work in 
their respective department. Despite wartime anxieties and cultural 
unrest, Robertson and her team would complete 6 weeks of hard work in 
half the time needed, all while being stationed in Birmingham, England, 
amidst enemy attacks and wartime fears.
  Had it not been for Robertson and her team's success, wartime 
communication would have been convoluted and inefficient. She handled 
the passage of information in the most dire of conditions at the 
darkest of times when communication was a necessity. Her service did 
not end there. While stationed in France, she served as a hospital 
aide, continuing to assist and nurse American soldiers.
  Robertson's passion for helping those who have served would follow 
her home. When returning to Milwaukee, Robertson dedicated her time to 
working as a nurse aide at the Milwaukee VA Medical Center. She also 
joined the ``I Am Not Invisible'' campaign headed by the Center for 
Women Veterans, advocating for equal recognition, awareness, and 
resources for women who have served in the American military.
  Robertson served despite facing racial bigotry and discrimination. 
She stood for the American people unconditionally when some may have 
not stood for her. Robertson was previously been decorated with six 
awards for her service, and I am pleased that she, along with the 
members of Six Triple Eight, will now receive a Congressional

[[Page S3068]]

Gold Medal in recognition of their service. Anna Mae Robertson is an 
inspiring example of hope and service in the United States. I am 
pleased to share my congratulations and heartfelt gratitude with Anna 
Mae Robertson for her lifetime of service and devotion to our Nation.

                          ____________________