The Naming of a Hero: A Matter of Honor and Principle

Reports that the US Navy aircraft carrier named after Black war hero Doris Miller may be renamed in favor of former President Donald Trump have sparked widespread outrage and criticism. This is not merely an issue of renaming a ship, but rather a question of what we value as a society: our history, heroes, and principles.

The USS Doris Miller was set to be the first aircraft carrier named after a Black sailor in US Navy history. Miller’s bravery at Pearl Harbor in 1941 is legendary – despite having no formal training on the machine gun he used, he managed four to six Japanese bombers. His actions that day were nothing short of heroic, and his legacy has inspired countless Americans.

Miller’s story also highlights the systemic racism and erasure of Black history that has long plagued our nation. The fact that it took until 2020 for Miller to receive the Navy Cross – the second-highest honor in the US military – is a stark reminder of the obstacles placed in the way of recognition for Black service members.

Prioritizing the naming of a ship after a former president over a true hero raises deeper questions. What does it say about our society when we choose to honor politicians over those who have demonstrated exceptional bravery and sacrifice? This is not just an issue of personal pride or ego, but rather one of principle: what values do we want to uphold as a nation?

The US Navy traditionally names its ships after heroes, not politicians. No carrier has ever been named after a sitting president. This tradition reflects more than protocol – it’s about what we believe is worthy of honor and recognition.

Democratic Senator Mark Kelly from Arizona and retired navy officer put the issue bluntly: “Dorie Miller’s bravery at Pearl Harbor is legendary…This aircraft carrier shouldn’t be renamed at all, let alone for Donald Trump.” Kelly’s words speak to the heart of the matter: this is not about politics or party loyalty; it’s about what we value as a society.

Renaming the ship would be a slap in the face to Miller’s family and legacy. It would also send a message that our nation values politicians over heroes, and that our history can be rewritten at the whims of power. This is not just an issue for the US Navy or the Trump administration; it’s about what we want to stand for as Americans.

As we move forward, we should reflect on the importance of honoring true heroes like Doris Miller. We must recognize the sacrifices and bravery of individuals who have given their all in service to our nation. Our history is complex and multifaceted – we can’t erase or rewrite it at will.

The question remains: what happens next? Will the US Navy stand by its original decision, or will they succumb to pressure from those who seek to undermine Miller’s legacy? One thing is clear: this is not just a matter of naming a ship – it’s about our values as a society.