The Netflix film The Six Triple Eight, directed by Tyler Perry, highlights the incredible true story of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, the first all-Black Women’s Army Corps unit to serve overseas during World War II. Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous 1940s, the film explores how these remarkable women navigated systemic racism and sexism to achieve what they set out to do: deliver millions of pieces of mail to soldiers during one of the most significant conflicts of the 20th century.
At the helm of this powerful narrative is Lt. Abbie Noel Campbell, portrayed by Milauna Jackson. Jackson recalls her experience auditioning for the role, explaining how her previous collaboration with Perry on A Jazzman’s Blues inspired her to bring this historical figure to life. "I auditioned for the role through Kim Coleman. She was casting and sent me the audition. I had just worked with Tyler on A Jazzman’s Blues, but this was different. I wanted to show I could flow with it during the audition," she shared, illustrating her commitment to her craft.
The movie revolves around the central figure of Maj. Charity Adams, played by Kerry Washington, who leads the battalion on their challenging mission. During her time working alongside Washington, Jackson discovered the invaluable contribution women like Adams made during the war. "This isn’t just about feeling good as Black women. This is the real deal,” Jackson emphasized. “We are playing superheroes, real-life heroines. This was their commitment to our country, and I had to bring gravitas to the role."
Set far from home, these women encountered not just physical hardship but emotional challenges as well. The film paints a vivid picture of their experiences: sorting through 17 million pieces of backlog mail and combating racial prejudice from their male counterparts. The importance of their mission was pronounced when Adams declared to her troops, “Because you are Negroes and women, you do not have the luxury to be as good as the White soldiers. You have the burden to be with pride.”
The film threads through poignant moments and broader societal issues as the 6888th navigated the realities of wartime Europe on their own terms. “They did not send us because they thought we could do it,” Maj. Adams explains to her troops. “We are here because they are sure we cannot.” With this moment, Perry not only showcases the under-appreciated contributions of Black women during the war but offers audiences a stirring narrative of resilience and determination.
Returning to the significance of the historical backdrop, Jackson recounts her process of preparing for the role. Despite never having heard about the 6888th Battalion prior to her audition, she dug deep, reaching out to former teachers to unearth the hidden parts of history. “I talked to my former second grade teacher who taught this history, not when I was young, but later. I wanted to understand how these women were contributors to our community and country. This role was grounded in honor,” she said.
Jackson’s dedication to her role did not stop at emotional preparation; she also underwent intense training to capture the essence of military life. She worked with experts, including military advisors, to portray the authority required to lead troops effectively. "I had to project my voice for the entire group—my work was to make sure it resonates with the lines of the soldiers,” she explained of her commitment to authenticity.
The camaraderie displayed among the women was central to the narrative, as Jackson explained, “We accomplished our missions through collective effort. We were all rooted together, ensuring each other stayed strong even when facing the adversities.” The film highlights the historical accomplishments of women like her character, who had families back home, serving not just their nation but proving their worth and rights as citizens.
Tyler Perry's ambition to tell this story, mired previously in neglect, has produced mixed reviews. Critics have noted the film’s inspiration against the backdrop of Perry’s conventional directorial style, praising both the earnestness of its storytelling and the shortcomings of its execution. Nevertheless, the core narrative shines bright—a celebration of perseverance and unity among these extraordinary women.
With major acknowledgments, including President Joe Biden posthumously awarding the 6888th Battalion the Congressional Gold Medal, the film serves as both a reminder and celebration of the overlooked contributions of Black women during World War II. Reflecting on the impact The Six Triple Eight can have on audiences today, Jackson remarked, “I hope people learn the importance of asking for help and working together. No missions are accomplished alone.”
Overall, The Six Triple Eight stands not just as entertainment but as educational and inspirational storytelling of historical significance, functioning as both documentary and drama to reflect the power of unity, dignity, and the enduring spirit of those who fight for change.