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Navy weighs renaming USS Doris Miller, the first carrier honoring a Black American.
The Navy is evaluating a potential renaming of the USS Doris Miller aircraft carrier. The vessel was named after Doris Miller, a Black American who earned recognition for heroism during the Pearl Harbor attack. Miller was killed in action in 1943.
The Defense Secretary has recommended the Medal of Honor for Miller, reflecting his contributions during wartime. The USS Doris Miller would be the first aircraft carrier named for a Black American.
The Navy is also considering naming an aircraft carrier after President Trump. Miller's great-nephew has expressed shock at the potential renaming of the vessel bearing his relative's name.
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Renaming would reverse milestone for African American naval history
The USS Doris Miller represented a historic milestone as the first aircraft carrier named for a Black American. Doris Miller's decorated service at Pearl Harbor and subsequent Medal of Honor recommendation underscore his military significance. Renaming the vessel would reverse this recognition of African American contributions to naval history.
Navy evaluates renaming options amid broader vessel designation decisions
The Navy is actively considering multiple naming options for its carrier fleet, including potential presidential designations. The evaluation process involves assessing various figures for carrier honors. Miller's great-nephew's reaction reflects family perspectives on the potential change to the vessel's current designation.