World War II Veteran Sgt. Kate Pate Walker to Join Hall of Fame

Sgt. Kate Pate Walker, a distinguished World War II veteran, will be inducted into the Museum of the Gulf Coast Hall of Fame on October 4, 2025, at 14:00. This event honors Walker’s significant contributions during the war, particularly as a member of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, known as the “six triple eight.”

In a touching ceremony held recently, Walker was posthumously awarded her congressional medals. Representative Brian Babin presented the medals on behalf of the Historic Sacred Spaces group, with family members accepting the honors, as Walker passed away in 2012. The recognition emphasizes her role in a battalion that was tasked with sorting and delivering mail to American troops stationed in Europe.

The 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion faced a daunting challenge during its deployment. Assigned to sort through an overwhelming backlog of mail, the battalion was given just six months to deliver 17 million letters. Remarkably, they accomplished this task in only three months, showcasing their dedication and efficiency.

The story of the six triple eight has gained renewed attention, recently adapted into a film titled ‘The Six Triple Eight’, which highlights the battalion’s critical role during the war. The film aims to educate audiences on the contributions of these brave women who served their country with distinction.

The Museum of the Gulf Coast is located at 700 Procter Street in Port Arthur, where the induction ceremony will take place. This event serves not only to honor Sgt. Walker but also to celebrate the legacy of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion and the vital role they played during World War II.