The resolution designates May 18 of each year as "Six Triple Eight Day" in New Jersey to honor the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the only all-African American, all-female unit deployed overseas during World War II. Organized in Birmingham, England, on March 4, 1945, the battalion faced significant challenges, including poor working conditions and systemic racism, yet they successfully delivered over 14 million pieces of backlogged mail to American soldiers and civilians in Europe within three months. Their efforts were recognized when President Biden signed a bill awarding them the Congressional Gold Medal on March 14, 2022.
The resolution calls for the Governor to issue an annual proclamation encouraging public officials and citizens to observe Six Triple Eight Day with appropriate programs and activities. It highlights the contributions of at least 28 women from New Jersey who served in the battalion, including notable members like Gladys Eva Debman-Blount and Marion VanOrkey. The Allentown Village Initiative plans to honor VanOrkey by hosting a program to share the story of the battalion and celebrate their legacy.