Remembering a Hero: USS Doris Miller (CVN-81) Ford Class Aircraft Carrier US Navy

Miller’s courage was put to the ultimate test on December 7, 1941, during the attack on Pearl Harbor. As a mess attendant, he had no formal combat training. Yet, when Japanese planes began their assault, Miller’s heroism and quick thinking saved countless lives and earned him the Navy Cross, the highest accolade bestowed upon a sailor. He became the first African American recipient of the prestigious award, breaking barriers in the Navy and paving the way for future generations of African American sailors.

Pearl Harbor Heroics

During the attack on Pearl Harbor, Miller ventured to the antiaircraft battery magazine, only to find it devastated by torpedo damage. Undeterred, he proceeded to the deck, where he was assigned to assist his injured comrades, including the ship’s captain. After relocating the wounded captain to safety, Miller operated an unmanned antiaircraft gun amidst low-flying planes and bullets, even though he had no formal training in its use.

Miller’s actions that fateful day were nothing short of heroic. Disregarding his own safety, he transported the wounded on his shoulders, traversed the decks submerged in waist-deep water and oil, and operated the antiaircraft gun in the midst of chaos. His courage and valor in the face of adversity not only saved lives, but also motivated other sailors and helped dismantle racial obstacles in the Navy, transforming him into a symbol of hope and progress for African Americans both in the military and beyond.

Navy Cross Recipient

As a Mess Attendant 2nd Class, Doris Miller became the first African American to receive the Navy Cross. This prestigious military honor was awarded to him in recognition of his bravery during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. His actions that day not only made an indelible mark on naval history, but also contributed to the fight for racial equality within the armed forces.

The significance of Miller’s Navy Cross award cannot be overstated. It served as a turning point in the recognition of African American sailors’ contributions to the US Navy and helped pave the way for their inclusion in combat roles and specialties. Miller’s courage and determination in the face of peril stand as a testament to the power of individuals to overcome adversity and make a lasting impact on the world around them.

Ship's Heavyweight Boxing Champion

In addition to his heroics during the attack on Pearl Harbor, Doris Miller was also the ship’s heavyweight boxing champion on the USS West Virginia. He was an inspiration to other Black sailors, proving that success in the Navy was attainable despite the restrictions imposed on them. Boxing has a long-standing history in the US Navy, with its roots stretching back to the early days when Navy ships hosted boxing matches as part of their entertainment.

President Theodore Roosevelt championed the implementation of boxing events on naval vessels to bolster military morale, and the sport continues to be popular in the Navy today, with championships and competitions held on a regular basis. Miller’s prowess in the boxing ring not only showcased his physical strength and determination, but also served as a symbol of hope and progress for African Americans in the military, paving the way for future generations of sailors to follow in his footsteps.

Future USS Doris Miller (CVN-81): A Ford Class Aircraft Carrier

The USS Doris Miller (CVN-81) is scheduled for delivery to the Navy in February 2032 and will replace the USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) in the fleet. This advanced Ford Class aircraft carrier will bring greater functionality and capacity to the Navy’s activities in the Pacific Fleet.

The naming of this powerful vessel after Doris Miller not only honors his legacy at Pearl Harbor, but also pays tribute to the countless African American sailors who have served their country with courage and determination.

Advanced Technology and Features

The USS Doris Miller will be equipped with cutting-edge technology, such as the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) and Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG) for launching and recovering aircraft. The EMALS utilizes electromagnetic force to propel aircraft from the flight deck, offering a more efficient and reliable launch system than traditional steam catapults.

Similarly, the Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG) employs electromagnetic force to slow down and stop aircraft on the flight deck, providing a safer and more efficient method of aircraft recovery. These advanced technologies will contribute significantly to the effectiveness of the USS Doris Miller and its mission to protect and serve the United States and its interests in the Pacific Fleet.

Importance of Naming

The naming of the USS Doris Miller also reflects the ongoing struggle for racial equality in the military and beyond, symbolizing the progress that has been made and the work that remains to be done. As this powerful vessel takes to the seas, it will carry with it the spirit of Doris Miller and all those who have fought for justice, equality, and freedom.

Expected Impact on Pacific Fleet

The anticipated effect of the USS Doris Miller on the Pacific Fleet is significant, as it will be the first Ford Class aircraft carrier in the region, equipped with advanced technology and features. The vessel’s capabilities will contribute to the Navy’s mission to uphold freedom of navigation and protect the United States’ interests in the Pacific.

Moreover, the naming of the aircraft carrier after Doris Miller serves as a powerful symbol of hope and progress, reminding sailors of the importance of courage, determination, and fighting for what is right. As the USS Doris Miller embarks on its journey in the Pacific Fleet, it will carry on the legacy of its namesake and continue to inspire future generations of sailors to overcome adversity and make a lasting impact on the world.

Doris Miller's Legacy: From the USS West Virginia to the USS Liscome Bay

Miller’s story of bravery and sacrifice serves as an inspiration to generations of Americans, both in the military and beyond. His actions during the attack on Pearl Harbor and his subsequent service on the USS Liscome Bay underscore the importance of courage, determination, and fighting for what is right.

As we remember Doris Miller, let us also honor the countless others who have served with valor and made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our nation.

Service on the USS West Virginia

Doris Miller served aboard the USS West Virginia during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, a pivotal event in World War II. As a mess attendant, he had no formal combat training, but he rose to the occasion in the face of danger, aiding in the relocation of his injured captain to safety and operating an anti-aircraft gun despite having not been formally trained to do so.

His actions during the attack not only saved the lives of many of his fellow sailors, but also had a profound impact on the US Navy. Miller’s heroism served as an inspiration to other sailors and played an instrumental role in breaking down racial barriers within the Navy, paving the way for greater inclusion and diversity in the years that followed.

Transfer to the USS Liscome Bay

Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, Doris Miller was transferred to the USS Liscome Bay, where he continued to serve his country. The USS Liscome Bay, an escort carrier, was tragically sunk by a Japanese submarine during the Battle of Tarawa in November 1943.

Miller’s final moments exemplified the same courage and determination that had defined his actions at Pearl Harbor. He was one of the last sailors to abandon the sinking ship, giving his life in service to his country and leaving behind a legacy of heroism and valor that continues to inspire generations of Americans.

Final Moments and Legacy

Doris Miller’s final moments during the sinking of the USS Liscome Bay were a testament to his unwavering courage and dedication to his fellow sailors. As one of the last personnel to evacuate the sinking ship, he continued to put the lives of others before his own, even in the face of certain death.

Miller’s legacy is one of courage, heroism, and sacrifice in the face of adversity. His actions during the attack on Pearl Harbor and his subsequent service on the USS Liscome Bay have been remembered and honored by the US Navy, through the naming of the USS Doris Miller (CVN-81), and by countless memorials and tributes dedicated to his memory.

He remains a symbol of hope and progress for African Americans in the military and beyond, and his story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the most difficult of circumstances.

Honoring Doris Miller: Memorials and Tributes

As we remember Doris Miller and all those who have fought and continue to fight for justice, equality, and freedom, let us also take inspiration from their stories and strive to make a positive impact in our own lives and communities. By honoring their memory, we can work together to create a brighter and more inclusive future for all.

Statues and Monuments

A 9-foot-tall bronze statue of Doris Miller stands proudly at the Doris Miller Memorial site on the banks of the Brazos River in his hometown of Waco, Texas. This striking monument serves as a lasting tribute to his courage, determination, and sacrifice during the attack on Pearl Harbor and his subsequent service in the US Navy.

In addition to the statue in Waco, there are other statues and monuments dedicated to Doris Miller, including a statue in Honolulu, Hawaii, and a memorial in Pearl Harbor. These monuments help to preserve his memory and ensure that his story of bravery and heroism continues to inspire future generations of Americans.

Parks and Buildings

Doris Miller is also honored through the dedication of parks and buildings in his name. Doris Miller Park in Waco, Texas, and Doris D. Miller Park in Austin, Texas, serve as tranquil spaces where visitors can reflect on the memory of this American hero.

These parks, along with other buildings named in his honor, help reinforce the importance of Doris Miller’s legacy and the contributions he made to the US Navy and the broader struggle for racial equality in the United States.

They serve as a constant reminder of the importance of courage, determination, and self-sacrifice in the fight for justice and freedom.

Martin Luther King Jr. Connection

The legacy of Doris Miller is not only preserved through memorials and tributes, but is also interwoven with the struggle for civil rights and racial equality led by Martin Luther King Jr. Miller’s bravery and valor in the face of adversity served as a source of motivation for Martin Luther King Jr. and the civil rights movement, inspiring countless individuals to stand up against injustice and fight for a more just society.

As we honor the memory of Doris Miller and all those who have fought for justice, equality, and freedom, let us also remember the importance of the connections between their stories and the broader struggle for civil rights in the United States. By recognizing and celebrating these connections, we can draw strength and inspiration from their courage and determination, and work together to create a more just and inclusive future for all.

Summary

Doris Miller’s incredible story of heroism and sacrifice during the attack on Pearl Harbor and his subsequent service on the USS Liscome Bay continues to inspire generations of Americans. As we eagerly await the launch of the USS Doris Miller (CVN-81) and honor the countless memorials and tributes dedicated to his memory, let us also remember the importance of standing up for what is right and fighting for justice, equality, and freedom. By honoring the memory of Doris Miller and all those who have served with courage and determination, we can work together to create a brighter and more inclusive future for all.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many planes did Doris Miller shoot down?

Officially credited with downing two Japanese planes, Doris Miller was later honored with the Navy Cross due to political pressure from the NAACP, African American press, and leftists.

Witnesses reported that the number of hits made by Miller may have been as many as six.

What happened to Doris Miller?

Doris Miller was killed in the Battle of Makin Island when his ship, the USS Liscome Bay, was sunk by a Japanese torpedo. While he was awarded the Purple Heart posthumously, Miller never received the Congressional Medal of Honor that many believe he deserved.

Many have argued that Miller should have been awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery and heroism during the battle. He was the first African American to be awarded the Navy Cross, and his story has become an inspiration to many.

What ship was Doris Miller on during Pearl Harbor?

Doris Miller was serving on the USS West Virginia when Japanese forces attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. He manned an anti-aircraft gun, despite not being trained in it, while stationed aboard the battleship.

Miller’s bravery and courage during the attack earned him the Navy Cross, making him the first African American to receive the honor. He was also the first African American to be featured on a U.S.

Is there a movie about Doris Miller?

Yes, there is a movie about Doris Miller - The Doris Miller Story documentary. It is about the first African American to be awarded the Navy Cross for heroism in combat with an armed enemy force.

Additionally, Dorie Miller’s story was also featured in the 2001 movie Pearl Harbor starring Cuba Gooding Jr.

Who was Doris Miller?

Doris Miller was an African-American sailor in the United States Navy during World War II, famously credited with saving lives aboard the USS West Virginia during the attack on Pearl Harbor.

Miller’s bravery and heroism during the attack earned him the Navy Cross, making him the first African-American to receive the honor. He was also the first African-American to be featured on the cover of Time magazine. Miller’s story is an inspiring example of courage.