Netflix is bringing an incredible, untold story of heroism, perseverance, and unity to life with The Six Triple Eight. Directed by Tyler Perry and starring Kerry Washington, the film sheds light on the remarkable 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion—the only all-Black, all-female battalion deployed overseas during World War II.
A Mission Like No Other
As World War II raged on, morale among soldiers faltered due to a backlog of undelivered mail. Over 17 million letters and packages sat untouched in warehouses, waiting to reach soldiers and their families. Enter the 6888th Battalion, a trailblazing group of over 800 African American women, who were tasked with a near-impossible mission: sort and deliver all the mail in just six months.
Under the leadership of Major Charity Adams, the first Black female officer in the Women’s Army Corps, the women of the Six Triple Eight tackled the overwhelming challenge with precision and grit. Despite facing racism, sexism, and the dangers of war, they accomplished their mission in just three months—half the time expected.
"These women were incredibly important to the war efforts toward the winding down of the war," Tyler Perry told PEOPLE in 2024. "It's important that these types of stories have their voice and their place, because so many of us are trying to erase and write out the history of the contributions of certain people."
The 855 women in the unit "wanted to fight for her country and wanted to be of service," Perry added, highlighting their resolve and patriotism.
Honoring the Legacy of the Six Triple Eight
Decades later, the 6888th Battalion received long-overdue recognition, including the Congressional Gold Medal and induction into the Army Women’s Foundation’s Hall of Fame.
The battalion has also been celebrated in the entertainment world. Along with Tyler Perry’s 2024 Netflix film, their story has inspired the musical Six Triple Eight, the historical novel No Better Time by Sheila Williams, and numerous nonfiction books.
Netflix Brings Their Story to the Screen
The Six Triple Eight promises to be a powerful drama that honors the bravery and determination of these extraordinary women. Kerry Washington stars as Charity Adams, bringing to life the struggles and triumphs of a leader tasked with defying prejudice while managing a daunting mission.
The film aims to inspire audiences with its portrayal of unity, resilience, and the vital role these women played in sustaining the morale of soldiers on the frontlines. It also serves as a reminder of the unrecognized heroes who helped shape history.
The 6888th Battalion’s story is one of courage and perseverance, and The Six Triple Eight will ensure that their legacy is remembered.
