Aunt Liz the Angel: A Champion for the Six Triple Eight. By Pastor Kyev Tatum, Texas 6888th Project.

Aunt Liz the Angel: A Champion for the Six Triple Eight. By Pastor Kyev Tatum, Founding Director, Texas 6888th Project.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On April 29, 2025, inside Emancipation Hall beneath the sacred shadow of the Capitol dome, the soul of America was stirred as our nation finally paused to say “thank you” to the women of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion. That day, wrapped in dignity and destiny, the Congressional Gold Medal was placed upon their legacy.

And standing at the center of this divine moment, like a hidden angel sent for such a time as this, was none other than Retired Master Sergeant Elizabeth Anne Helm-Frazier—known across our community, and to the cast of the Tyler Perry film, simply and lovingly as Aunt Liz.

Let me say it plain: Aunt Liz is God’s gift to the memory of the Six Triple Eight.

When the final living members of the battalion took her in, they said something Master Sgt. never forget: “Liz can’t do no wrong in our book.” And I declare today—neither can she in ours.

While many chased headlines and handshakes, Aunt Liz rolled up her sleeves and took care of God’s business. She didn’t just honor the legacy—she lived it. In the spirit of Lieutenant Colonel Charity Adams Earley, she walked with humility, spoke with wisdom, and served with a sacred fire. She wrapped grieving families in compassion, lifted up their stories, and made sure no one was left behind—not then, not now.

Because of her, we now have a monument at Fort Leavenworth. Because of her, the acclaimed film No Mail, Low Morale exists. Because of her, September 16 is known as National 6888th Day. And because of her, Congress—Congress!—finally gave these Black women warriors their just due.

Her military journey alone would earn her a salute. Born in St. Petersburg, raised in Ridgecrest—a community that taught service before self—Aunt Liz answered the call in 1981. Despite rejection from her own father, she stood tall. She proved him wrong and proved her God right.

Over 25 years, 10 months, and 26 days, she earned distinction as TRADOC’s Career Counselor of the Year, San Antonio’s Mentor of the Year, and was inducted into the Army Women’s Foundation Hall of Fame. She rose not just in rank, but in purpose—paving a path for our daughters to follow and our sons to respect.

Yet, Aunt Liz will be the first to tell you: it ain’t about her. It’s about them—the women who sorted 17 million pieces of mail in war zones, while facing racism, sexism, and indifference. Aunt Liz made sure their story would never be silenced again.

I speak today not just as a Pastor or as Director of the Texas 6888th Project —but as a brother in the struggle for memory, honor, and justice. I’ve seen the tears, the triumphs, and the testimony. I’ve seen how God has worked through Aunt Liz.

And so, as we stood together in Emancipation Hall, I lean over to her today and said with full conviction:

“God is doing a great work in you.”

And now America has joined the chorus:

“Well done, thy good and faithful soldier.”

From Fort Worth to Fort Leavenworth, from Ridgecrest to Capitol Hill—we will carry the torch. Texas is committed to passing a 6888th Day, and the Ministers Justice Coalition of Texas will make sure Aunt Liz’s labor will never be in vain.

Let the record show: Heaven sent Aunt Liz, and she delivered.