Navy considers naming ship for Donald Trump instead of Pearl Harbor hero

AI-summarized · Neutrality-checked

The U.S. Navy is reportedly considering renaming a Ford-class aircraft carrier currently under construction from the USS Doris Miller to a vessel honoring former President Donald Trump. The ship was originally named for Doris Miller, a Black sailor and Navy Cross recipient who defended U.S. forces during the 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, representing the first aircraft carrier to be named after an enlisted sailor and a Black person. Anonymous sources indicated that the Navy intends to designate a different ship in Miller's honor and pursue a Medal of Honor for his service. The potential name change emerged as a surprise to Miller’s family, who stated they were not informed of the decision despite their ongoing efforts to secure the medal for him.

Consequences

If the renaming proceeds, it would displace the historic significance of the first aircraft carrier intended to honor a Black sailor and an enlisted service member. The move risks public backlash, as family members of Miller have already expressed shock regarding the potential loss of the namesake status for the ship.

Sources

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