By Alexis LaRue
AFRO Intern
alarue@afro.com
The Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History and Culture recently hosted a compelling author talk in Baltimore on March 7. The event featured the revered Army (Ret.) Col. Edna W. Cummings, and served as part of the institution’s Women’s History Month programming.
The event that came with a dual-purpose. Attendees were able to celebrate both Cummings’ new memoir, “A Soldier’s Life: A Black Woman’s Rise from Army Brat to Six Triple Eight Champion,” while also paying tribute to the women of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion (Six Triple Eight), a pivotal unit in American military history. Cummings has been a staunch advocate for the women of the Six Triple Eight, and was instrumental in the women receiving the Congressional Gold Medal in 2025.
This unit was the only all-Black, all-female battalion to be deployed during World War II, delivering more than 17 million packages and pieces of mail sent to and from American troops seeking connection with their family, friends and loved ones back home.
Cummings’ work has ensured that the critical contributions of the Six Triple Eight are never forgotten.
The March 7 event featured a presentation as well as a panel discussion moderated by Dr. Constance Harris of the University of Baltimore, giving attendees the opportunity to ask questions as well as participate in discussions.
Janice Martin, daughter of Indiana Hunt-Martin, spoke about the significant role of the women of the Six Triple Eight and how they became advocates for Black women in the military.
“I don’t know where women would be in the military had they failed,” said Martin.
She characterized their efforts as a quiet form of advocacy.
“I see them as advocates, because they advocated for women and no one even knew,” she said.
Karen Taylor, whose mother was Vivian Elize Taylor, also shared a personal perspective on the importance of knowing and sharing family history for future generations.
“My mom and my dad raised us to care for others, to look into your history,” said Taylor. “You teach. You show what you are, it has to be action. Show what you have learned and what your family has taught you. Love is a verb.”
After the panel session, attendees were able to have their books signed by Cummings and take a look at some of the prized possessions handed down over the years to the Six Triple Eight descendents.
The event drew the attendance of women from all walks of life. Some, like Barbara J. Davis, even brought along their spouses. Former Maryland State Delegate Clarence “Tiger” Davis was happy to be in the number. He spoke with the AFRO after the event.
“There are no greater people in this country than African-American people,” said Davis, “And there’s no greater species on the face of this earth than Black women.”