Chicago – August 21, 2026
The U.S. Navy is considering renaming an aircraft carrier originally designated to honor Doris “Dorie” Miller, a Black sailor recognized for his courage during Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbor, according to officials familiar with internal discussions.
The Ford-class carrier, currently under construction and identified as CVN-81, was named the USS Doris Miller during President Donald Trump’s first administration in 2020. Miller, who was not trained to operate anti-aircraft weapons, helped defend the battleship USS West Virginia and assisted wounded sailors during the December 7, 1941, attack. He later became the first Black service member to receive the Navy Cross.
Two officials told NBC News that Navy leaders have discussed naming the carrier after Trump, a move that would break with the longstanding practice of not naming an aircraft carrier for a sitting president. The Navy may instead honor Miller on another warship and is reportedly considering him for the Medal of Honor, subject to congressional authorization and presidential approval.
A Navy spokesperson said the service had “no announcement to share at this time.” The potential change has prompted concern among veterans and Miller’s relatives, who said they had not been formally informed.
