*This article contains references to historical events involving war, including descriptions of combat and acts of bravery during military conflict. Reader discretion is advised, particularly for those sensitive to topics related to violence or wartime experiences.
As we honor the 83rd anniversary of Pearl Harbor, we remember the remarkable individuals whose courage shaped history. Among them, Doris “Dorie” Miller, whose name is etched in the history of America as a symbol of courage, perseverance, and the breaking of racial barriers. Born on October 12, 1919, Dorie rose from humble beginnings as a sharecropper’s son in Waco, Texas, to become a national symbol of heroism during World War II.
Miller enlisted in the U.S. Navy in 1939 at the age of 20 at time when African Americans were largely confined to basic, non-combat roles, primarily in the mess halls of Navy ships. Despite these constraints, Miller’s strong work ethic and leadership quickly stood out. He was a skilled boxer and known for his dedication to his duties aboard the USS West Virginia.
On December 7, 1941, during the attack on Pearl Harbor, Miller’s extraordinary bravery changed the course of his life and inspired a nation. As Japanese planes bombarded the harbor, Miller rushed into action, helping injured sailors to safety amid the chaos. When his ship’s captain was mortally wounded, Miller took control of a .50-caliber anti-aircraft machine gun—despite having no formal training—and courageously defended his ship until he ran out of ammunition.
Miller’s valor earned him a Navy Cross, presented by Admiral Chester Nimitz in 1942, making him the first African American to receive this honor. His heroism went beyond racial barriers, challenging the prejudices of his time and highlighting the invaluable contributions of Black Americans to the war effort. Tragically, his life was cut short in 1943 when the USS Lipscomb Bay was sunk by a Japanese submarine.
Doris Miller’s story became a pivotal turning point in the fight for racial equality in the military, paving the way for desegregation in the armed forces in 1948.
In recognition of his heroism, the U.S. Navy announced in 2020 that a soon to be commissioned aircraft carrier would be named after him: the USS Doris Miller (CVN-81). The ship serves as a symbol of his courage and the ongoing pursuit of equality in the military, ensuring that his legacy continues to inspire future generations.
You can explore more about Doris Miller’s heroic story and the lasting influence of his legacy through the resources below! Join us in honoring his extraordinary achievements and let his story inspire you to pursue justice and equity in your own way.
Watch: CBS Sunday Morning- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NPIHx_fik-0
