National Coalition of Black Veteran Organizations on Tyler Perry’s Netflix film – 6888

By: Charles Blatcher, III

Chairman, National Coalition of Black Veteran Organizations 

Knowing the History of the All-Black Women Army Battalion who served in World War II, I must admit I was curious as to how the story would be presented as a movie. Movies of historical people and momentous events are made with commercial viewership in mind, often distorting or embellishing truths for entertainment purposes. Well, I found out on New Year’s Day, when I sat down with the family for a viewing, the movie was no exception in that regard. The plot was cleverly built around an inter-racial love affair that influenced the enlistment of a young Black woman from the South into the Women’s Army Corps (WAC). Whether the affair fact or fiction, I cannot say. However, I can say the history of the battalion was brilliantly woven into the storyline. 

As I followed the two-hour, seven minutes film the storyline intersected with the facts as I understood them of the Battalion’s service. It recreated the political/social environment of the times with humor, along with the insults and disrespect the women faced in their efforts to serve our less than appreciative nation. Seeing it all played out in the movie, it provoked laughter, anger, and a sense of pride in how the leadership and members of the Battalion maintained focus on the mission at hand – moving the mail. 

The movie focused on the women of the 6888th, however it reflected the history of Black women in general who served and are serving in the Armed Forces. Those who have distinguished themselves to become the first in their various fields of endeavors survived humiliation and disrespect. The movie provides a long overdue public airing of their trials and tribulations while acknowledging their accomplishments and achievements in the defense of our nation. 

The National Coalition of Black Veterans have created a poster “Saluting” Sisters in the Service of the Nation”. The poster recognizes the achievements and advancements of Black women in all branches of the Armed Forces. Beginning with Cathy Williams who disguised herself as a man to serve in the Army, the women featured are trailblazers. The poster promotes greater public awareness of the expanded role Black women occupy in today’s Armed Forces. For information on the poster contact the coalition at: cnmmmf@aol.com  

We salute Tyler Perry for creating an outstanding production well worth the two hours and seven minutes of viewing. We encourage you to make the viewing a family affair and recommend it to friends. #####