Navy Weighs Renaming CVN-81 Doris Miller Carrier

The U.S. Navy is actively considering whether to rename the future aircraft carrier USS Doris Miller, with internal discussions including the possibility of naming the ship after President Donald Trump, according to sources familiar with the deliberations. The move, which would mark a significant departure from the original plan to honor a celebrated Black World War II sailor, is occurring as the carrier’s keel-laying ceremony is scheduled for later this year, creating pressure for a final decision.

The carrier, designated CVN-81, was officially named for Doris "Dorie" Miller in January 2020 during a ceremony at Pearl Harbor. Miller, a Mess Attendant Third Class from Waco, Texas, became a naval hero for his actions during the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Despite having no training on the weapon, he helped his wounded commanding officer and then manned an antiaircraft machine gun, returning fire against enemy aircraft. He was later awarded the Navy Cross, making him the first African American to receive the Navy’s second-highest decoration for valor. Miller was killed in action during the Battle of Makin in 1943. The naming of CVN-81 marked the first time...