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April 27, 2026
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Download official Extensions PDFReturn to issue contextHONORING WINNIE BEATRICE “BEA” RICHARDSON FOR HER SERVICE IN THE
6888TH BATTALION DURING WORLD WAR II
HON. JOSH HARDER
of california
in the house of representatives
Monday, April 27, 2026
Mr. HARDER of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life, service, and enduring legacy of Ms. Winnie Beatrice “Bea” Richardson, a proud member of the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion during World War II, as her family will gather in Texas on June 13, 2026, to commemorate her contributions to our Nation.
Ms. Richardson joined the United States Army on August 28, 1943, in Houston, Texas, at 23 years old. Prior to her service, she worked as a private maid. She began her military career as a supply clerk and later served as a postal clerk, achieving the rank of Private First Class. As part of the historic 6888th Battalion—an all-Black, all-female unit of the Women's Army Corps—she played a vital role in clearing a massive backlog of mail, ensuring troops overseas remained connected to loved ones and strengthening morale during wartime.
For her service, Ms. Richardson received numerous commendations, including the Good Conduct Medal, the Women's Army Corps Service Medal, the American Campaign Medal, the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, the World War II Victory Medal, and the Honorable Service Lapel Button. She was honorably discharged on November 16, 1945.
Following her military service, Ms. Richardson continued a lifetime of public service. She worked for 43 years at the Sacramento Army Depot, rising from custodian to Supply Clerk. Her dedication earned recognition for maintaining zero sick leave for a decade from 1983 to 1993, along with many additional awards before retirement.
Ms. Richardson was deeply devoted to her community. She served as a Den Mother and youth leader across scouting organizations, as PTA President, and as Auxiliary President of the Veterans of Foreign Wars in 1970. A longtime member of St. Paul Baptist Church, she served faithfully on the Usher Board and as a Senior Usher.
Affectionately known as “Mother West,” she was remembered for her generosity, opening her home to those in need of a meal or safe place to stay.
Ms. Richardson passed away on August 15, 2004, at the age of 84, and is laid to rest at Sacramento Memorial Lawn Cemetery alongside her husband, Andrew Bryan West, a fellow World War II Army veteran. Married in 1950, they raised five children and are survived by a large and loving family who continue to honor her legacy of service and compassion.
This ceremony will stand as a meaningful tribute to Ms. Richardson and the broader contributions of the women of the 6888th Battalion. Her story of courage, perseverance, and patriotism continues to inspire future generations.
Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Winnie Beatrice “Bea” Richardson for her extraordinary service and lasting impact on our Nation's history.