Navy Considers Renaming USS Doris Miller

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The U.S. Navy is contemplating changing the name of one of its upcoming aircraft carriers, the USS Doris Miller, an initiative that could potentially see President Trump’s name as its replacement. This proposed change pertains to the Gerald R. Ford-class carrier, designated CVN-81, as reported by CNN. As of now, no official decision has been made public.

The aircraft carrier was named in honor of Doris Miller in January 2020 during a formal ceremony at Pearl Harbor. At this event, the then Acting Secretary of the Navy, Thomas Modly, underscored the intent to recognize not only Miller but also the contributions of all enlisted sailors throughout history. Modly emphasized the importance of acknowledging the diverse backgrounds of these servicemen and women.

“In selecting this name, we honor the contributions of all our enlisted ranks, past and present, men and women, of every race, religion, and background,” Modly stated.

The naming of the USS Doris Miller holds great historical significance. It represents the first U.S. aircraft carrier named after a Black American and a sailor recognized for actions performed while in enlisted ranks. Doris “Dorie” Miller was born in Waco, Texas, on October 12, 1919, and enlisted in the Navy in 1939. He served aboard the USS West Virginia during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Despite lacking formal training, Miller helped his wounded comrades before taking up an anti-aircraft gun to fire at enemy aircraft.

Doris Miller with Navy Cross
Doris ‘Dorie’ Miller with Navy Cross during WWII (Photo: Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

Following his heroic acts, Miller was awarded the Navy Cross, becoming the first Black American to receive this decoration. Unfortunately, Miller was killed in action in November 1943 when the escort carrier USS Liscome Bay sank after being torpedoed during Pacific operations.

In the past, the Navy named the Knox-class frigate USS Miller after Doris Miller, which served from 1973 to 1991. According to anonymous sources cited by CNN, the discussions to rename CVN-81 have been ongoing for several months. The ship is increasingly referenced by its hull number, CVN-81, within internal communications. Speculation suggests that President Trump’s name is under consideration for the carrier.

Miller’s family reportedly was not notified about this potential change. Official Navy historical records still list CVN-81 as the future USS Doris Miller. Nexstar’s KWKT sought confirmation from the U.S. Navy’s Office of Information, but no additional information is currently available.