[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 100 (Monday, June 15, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E573]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





      HONORING PRIVATE FIRST CLASS WINNIE BEATRICE RICHARDSON WEST

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BRIAN BABIN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, June 15, 2026

  Mr. BABIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and service of 
Private First Class Winnie Beatrice Richardson West, a proud Texan, 
World War II veteran, and member of the historic 6888th Central Postal 
Directory Battalion, known as the ``Six Triple Eight.''
  Born on February 5, 1920, in Hankamer, Texas, Winnie Richardson 
enlisted in the Women's Army Corps on November 28, 1943, and honorably 
served her country until November 16, 1945. During her military 
service, she attained the rank of Private First Class, She was assigned 
to the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the only 
predominantly African American Women's Army Corps unit deployed 
overseas during World War II.
  In early 1945, the Six Triple Eight was sent to Europe to address an 
enormous backlog of millions of undelivered letters and packages 
intended for American servicemembers and their families. The task 
before them was daunting. Mountains of mail had accumulated in 
warehouses across England and France, leaving troops disconnected from 
loved ones during one of the most challenging periods in American 
history.
  The women worked tirelessly under extreme conditions to restore 
morale to the men fighting for freedom, so far from their loved ones. 
The women of the 6888th achieved what many believed was impossible. 
Through resilience and sheer determination, they restored a vital 
connection between servicemembers and home. Their work strengthened 
morale among American troops and provided comfort and reassurance to 
countless families awaiting news from loved ones serving abroad.
  PFC West carried out her duties with distinction despite serving in a 
segregated military at a time when African American women faced 
significant racial and gender barriers. Her service renected courage, 
resilience, professionalism, and a steadfast dedication to mission and 
country. Her example helped pave the way for future generations of 
women who dare to exceed the boundaries of what they thought possible.
  For her honorable service, PFC West received the American Theater 
Campaign Medal, the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, the 
Good Conduct Medal, the World War II Victory Medal, the Women's Army 
Corps Service Ribbon, and the Overseas Service Bar.
  Today, the story of the Six Triple Eight stands as a testament to 
perseverance, patriotism, and excellence. Their long-overdue 
recognition serves as a reminder that victory in war depends not only 
on those who fight on the front lines but also on those whose 
dedication behind the scenes sustains the strength and spirit of our 
armed forces.
  By remembering the life and legacy of Winnie Beatrice Richardson 
West, we honor a member of the Greatest Generation whose service 
contributed to the Allied victory in World War II and whose example 
continues to inspire Americans today.
  Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to ask my colleagues to join me in 
recognizing Private First Class Winnie Beatrice Richardson West for her 
faithful service and for the lasting legacy she leaves to her family, 
her community, the state of Texas, and the United States of America. 
May her life and service never be forgotten.

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