Courage to Deliver: The Women of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion
This hot comb was used by Private 1st Class Annie Knight while in service. The Army did not provide hair salons for WACs and did not understand the hair care needs of Black WACs. It wasn't until 2021 that hair regulations for women in the Army allowed hair styles culturally significant for Black men and women.
The Fight for Equality
The 6888th was subjected to racism and sexism both at home and abroad. At Fort Des Moines for training, Black women were housed in a segregated building, kept away from the white platoons. In England, a general officer threatened to replace Major Adams with a white lieutenant when she ordered a portion of the 6888th to continue their work rather than join the formation for his inspection. In another instance, the 6888th was successfully using integrated accommodations in London for weekend passes. When the Red Cross decided to lease a hotel just for the Black women, Maj. Adams asked her troops not to use the segregated facility which she felt would be a step backwards and her soldiers readily agreed.
Once returned home and out of service, many Black WACs struggled to receive the full benefits of the GI Bill. It wouldn't be until July 1948 that Executive Order 9981 integrated the Armed Forces, but the fight against racism and segregation in the civilian world was just beginning.
