Rep. White Celebrates Bipartisan Bill Honoring Black, All-Female WWII Unit Being Voted Out of Committee

COLUMBUS – State Reps. Erika White (D-Springfield Township) and Melanie Miller (R-Ashland) Wednesday were excited to announce that House Bill (HB) 204 was unanimously voted out of the House Veterans and Military Development Committee. The bill honors the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, commonly known as the "Six Triple Eight," the only Black, all-female unit serving in Europe during World War II.

“As these courageous women overcame obstacles and shattered stereotypes, they not only fulfilled their military duties but also illuminated the vital contributions of Black women in the armed forces, paving the way for future generations of all to follow in their footsteps. We honor their undeniable contributions, indelible impact, and remarkable bravery—a legacy, an undeniable testament to the truth that acknowledges that diversity in all roads inclusively leads to Ohio!” said Rep. White. 

On February 3, 1945, the U.S. Army boldly deployed a unit of over 800 Black women to England with their mission initially unknown. Today, we know their mission and their motto. This trailblazing unit was entrusted with the mission and monumental task of sorting and delivering mail over two years of backlogged mail to American troops stationed overseas, a mission that significantly boosted morale during a critical time. As the unit shared, “No Mail, Low Morale”.

This mission was lead under the exceptional leadership of Ohioan Lt. Colonel Charity Adams, the highest-ranking Black female officer in World War II, this battalion—also comprising of dedicated women recruited and trained in Ohio—played a pivotal role in this historic mission.

Ohioans can watch House Veterans and Military Development Committee on the Ohio Channel at 2:00pm EST.

HB 204 is now headed to the House floor for a vote. 

EDITOR’S NOTE: A picture of the 6888th Central Postal Director Battalion is attached to this press release.