The NAACP has strongly criticized the U.S. Navy following reports that it considered renaming the USS Doris Miller, an aircraft carrier honoring a Black WWII hero, and potentially replacing it with former President Donald Trump’s name. NAACP President Derrick Johnson called the alleged discussions a ‘slap in the face’ to Black service members and their legacy.
KEY FACTS
- The NAACP condemned reported Navy plans to rename the USS Doris Miller.
- NAACP President Derrick Johnson criticized the move in a social media post.
- The carrier is named after Doris Miller, a Black WWII hero.
- The Navy allegedly considered replacing the name with Donald Trump’s.
Why Is the USS Doris Miller Significant?
The USS Doris Miller is named after Mess Attendant Second Class Doris Miller, who became a national hero for his bravery during the attack on Pearl Harbor. Despite being restricted to menial roles due to racial segregation in the military, Miller manned a machine gun and helped rescue wounded sailors. His actions earned him the Navy Cross, making him one of the first Black Americans to receive the honor.
What Prompted the Controversy?
Reports surfaced that the Navy was considering renaming the carrier, with former President Trump’s name allegedly among the options. The NAACP and other advocates view this as an erasure of Miller’s legacy and a disregard for the contributions of Black service members. The Navy has not officially confirmed or denied the discussions.
WHAT WE KNOW — AND WHAT WE DON’T
Verified by the source:
- The NAACP publicly criticized the Navy’s reported plans.
- Derrick Johnson described the alleged renaming as disrespectful.
- The USS Doris Miller is named after a celebrated Black WWII hero.
Still unconfirmed:
- Whether the Navy is definitively moving forward with renaming the carrier.
- The full list of names considered as replacements.
- The Navy’s official response to the NAACP’s criticism.
WHY IT MATTERS
This controversy highlights ongoing debates over military recognition and racial equity. Doris Miller’s name on an aircraft carrier was a historic milestone, and altering it could be seen as undermining progress in honoring Black veterans. The discussion also intersects with broader political tensions surrounding Trump’s legacy.
WHAT TO WATCH
Observers are waiting for an official statement from the Navy regarding the reported renaming discussions. Advocacy groups may escalate pressure if the plans proceed.