Assembly Resolution No. 137
BY: M. of A. Manktelow
COMMEMORATING the 80th Anniversary of the 6888th
Central Postal Directory Battalion's deployment
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to commemorate
significant events which represent turning points in our unique history
and which are indelibly etched in the saga of our great Nation; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the 6888th Central Postal Directory
Battalion's deployment; and
WHEREAS, The 80th Anniversary of the 6888th Central Postal Directory
Battalion's deployment is a significant moment in history, marking the
courage, resilience, and pioneering spirit of African American women who
served in the United States Army during World War II; and
WHEREAS, Formed in 1945, the 6888th Central Postal Directory
Battalion was the only all-Black, all-female battalion deployed overseas
during the war; its primary mission was to sort and deliver mail to
American troops stationed in Europe, an essential task that had been
severely delayed due to the war's disruptions; and
WHEREAS, The first unit of 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion
was deployed on February 3, 1945, with 20 of its known members being
from the State of New York; and
WHEREAS, Despite facing racial and gender-based discrimination, the
members of the 6888th, led by Lieutenant Colonel Charity Adams Earley,
defied expectations and demonstrated exceptional leadership, teamwork,
and determination; and
WHEREAS, The battalion was deployed to England and later to France,
where it successfully cleared a massive backlog of undelivered mail,
ensuring that soldiers could reconnect with their loved ones; their
efforts boosted morale and provided vital support to the war effort; and
WHEREAS, The significance of the 6888th Battalion goes beyond their
practical contribution to the war effort; their deployment was a
groundbreaking moment in the history of women's military service and
racial integration in the armed forces; and
WHEREAS, These brave women faced unimaginable challenges, from
enduring harsh conditions in foreign lands to overcoming systemic racism
within the military itself, yet, they persevered, proving their
capabilities and reshaping perceptions about women and African Americans
in the military; and
WHEREAS, As we commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the 6888th
Central Postal Directory Battalion's deployment, it is essential to
recognize their legacy; the bravery and determination of these women
paved the way for future generations of women and people of color in the
military, leaving an indelible mark on both military history and the
broader struggle for civil rights; their service exemplifies the power
of overcoming adversity and the profound impact of their contributions
to the success of the United States during World War II; now, therefore,
be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the 6888th Central Postal Directory
Battalion's deployment.
