NO MAIL, LOW MORALE: Texas 6888th Project Delegation Witnesses Historic Recognition in Laurel, Maryland.
NO MAIL, LOW MORALE: Texas 6888th Project Delegation Witnesses Historic Recognition in Laurel, Maryland. Pastor Kyev Tatum, Texas 6888th Project.
As descendants of the trailblazing 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion journey from across the nation—including a proud delegation from Fort Worth, Texas—to attend the long-awaited Congressional Gold Medal Ceremony at the United States Capitol on April 29, 2025, several made a meaningful stop along the way. https://www.star-telegram.com/news/local/fort-worth/article303781866.html
Today, the Texas 6888th Project Delegation had the honor of participating in a powerful recognition ceremony hosted by the City of Laurel, Maryland. We were warmly welcomed by a trio of groundbreaking leaders: Mayor Keith R. Sydnor, Fort Meade Garrison Commander Col. Yolanda Gore, and lifelong 6888th advocate MSG Elizabeth Anne Helm-Frazier.
Though the event was designed to honor the historic contributions of the 6888th—the only all-Black, all-female battalion to serve overseas in WWII—it quickly became clear that this day was about more than the past. It was about the living legacy of leadership, perseverance, and progress.
Mayor Keith R. Sydnor, the first Black mayor in Laurel’s history, shared his remarkable journey from Petersburg, Virginia, through a distinguished military and public service career. A retired Chief Petty Officer in the United States Navy and longtime law enforcement officer, Mayor Sydnor has remained deeply committed to serving others, whether through education, athletics, or civic leadership. His story resonated powerfully with the Texas delegation, inspiring us with his unwavering dedication and service across so many fields.
Col. Yolanda Gore, now the first woman and only the second person of color to serve as Garrison Commander at Fort George G. Meade, spoke of the deep responsibility she carries in her historic role. With extensive experience in the South Carolina National Guard, the U.S. Army’s Signal and Adjutant General’s Corps, and the Joint Staff, Col. Gore’s career stands as a testament to excellence and resilience. Her words of commitment to leadership, community, and heritage stirred a deep sense of pride among the families of the 6888th, reminding us all of the importance of building upon the foundations laid by the giants before us.
MSG Elizabeth Anne Helm-Frazier’s lifelong advocacy for the 6888th Battalion tied the entire event together. A native of St. Petersburg, Florida, and a 25-year Army veteran, Helm-Frazier has devoted her post-military career to ensuring the 6888th’s story is told and honored. Her work in raising funds for the monument at Fort Leavenworth and producing the acclaimed documentary No Mail, Low Morale has been crucial to cementing the battalion’s place in American history. Listening to her speak about the sacrifice and determination of the women of the 6888th reinforced the importance of carrying their torch forward.
For the Texas delegation, today was more than a ceremony—it was a living classroom of history, leadership, and pride. Witnessing these historic figures honor the legacy of the 6888th infused us with a renewed sense of purpose as we continue our own work to educate and inspire future generations.
Today in Laurel, Maryland, history wasn’t just remembered—it was made.
Comments
Post a Comment