NAACP President Derrick Johnson is criticizing reports that the U.S. Navy is considering renaming an aircraft carrier that is set to honor Black World War II hero Doris Miller—with President Donald Trump’s name reportedly among those discussed as a possible replacement.
CNN reported that Navy officials have discussed changing the name of the future U.S.S. Doris Miller, a Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carrier currently under construction. Two unnamed sources told the network that Trump’s name had been discussed. The Navy and Department of Defense have not confirmed that a name change will take place.
“This is a slap in the face to every war hero and every service member who has worn the uniform,” Johnson said in a statement. “Doris Miller earned his place in American history through courage, sacrifice, and service.”
The carrier was named for Miller in 2020, making it the first aircraft carrier named for a Black American and the first named for an enlisted sailor in recognition of his actions.
Miller was serving aboard the U.S.S. West Virginia during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941. A mess attendant, Miller helped move wounded sailors, including the ship’s mortally wounded captain, before taking control of an anti-aircraft machine gun despite having no formal training on the weapon.
For his actions, Miller became the first Black American to receive the Navy Cross, then the Navy’s highest decoration for valor after the Medal of Honor. Miller was killed in November 1943 when the escort carrier U.S.S. Liscome Bay was struck by a Japanese torpedo during the Battle of Makin.
His family and supporters have continued to advocate for Miller to receive the Medal of Honor.
The reports of a possible name change also drew criticism from Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., a retired Navy officer and former astronaut.
“Dorie Miller’s bravery at Pearl Harbor is legendary and resulted in him being awarded the Navy Cross,” Kelly wrote on social media. “This aircraft carrier shouldn’t be renamed at all.”
The Navy has declined to comment publicly on the reported discussions. No U.S. aircraft carrier has previously been named for a sitting president.
Johnson said removing Miller’s name would diminish recognition of generations of Black Americans who served in the military at times when they faced segregation and discrimination at home and within the armed forces.
