The United States Navy is reportedly reconsidering the name of a new aircraft carrier, originally intended to honour Doris Miller, the first African-American sailor to receive the Navy Cross. Instead, the Navy may opt to name the vessel after former President Donald Trump, a move that has sparked widespread criticism and controversy.
Doris Miller: A Hero’s Legacy
Doris Miller, a Mess Attendant First Class, gained recognition for his extraordinary bravery during the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. While serving aboard the battleship USS West Virginia, Miller risked his life to rescue his mortally wounded captain, all while under heavy enemy fire. Despite lacking formal training, he manned a machine gun and reportedly shot down several Japanese aircraft before he was ordered to evacuate the bridge.
Miller’s actions not only earned him the Navy Cross but also cemented his status as a war hero. Tragically, he lost his life at sea in 1943, when the aircraft carrier Liscome Bay was torpedoed. His family has long campaigned for his commendation to be upgraded to the Medal of Honor, reflecting the significance of his heroism.
Social Media Outcry
The potential decision to replace Miller’s name has ignited a firestorm on social media, with many users expressing their discontent. A particularly resonant comment on Reddit encapsulated the sentiment: “Hmmm, who should the 20 billion-dollar navy ship be named after? The Navy War Hero? Or the draft dodger?” This sentiment reflects the deep-rooted frustration among many who believe that Miller’s legacy deserves to be celebrated without alteration.
Senator Mark Kelly, a Democrat from Arizona and a retired Navy officer, has also voiced his disapproval. In a post on X, he stated, “Doris Miller’s bravery at Pearl Harbor is legendary and resulted in him being awarded the Navy Cross. This aircraft carrier shouldn’t be renamed at all, let alone for Donald Trump, who has denigrated servicemembers like Doris Miller who have paid the ultimate price.”
Historical Precedent
If the Navy proceeds with the name change, it would mark an unprecedented move as no aircraft carrier in the history of the US Navy has been named after a sitting president. This potential shift raises questions not only about the values being upheld by the military but also about the criteria used for honouring individuals through such significant vessels.
Why it Matters
The proposed renaming of the aircraft carrier from Doris Miller to Donald Trump underscores a broader conversation about military honour and the recognition of historical figures. As the Navy grapples with its legacy and the narratives it chooses to celebrate, this decision could have lasting implications on how the service is perceived by both the public and its members. Renaming this vessel could be seen as a departure from honouring true heroes who have served and sacrificed, instead aligning with political figures whose legacies may be more contentious. This controversy serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in commemorating history and the ongoing debates surrounding honour and recognition in the military.