The Trump administration has faced accusations of disrespecting military veterans following reports that a Navy aircraft carrier initially designated to honor Doris Miller, a Black sailor celebrated for heroism during World War II, may instead be renamed to carry President Donald Trump’s name, according to CNN citing three sources familiar with internal discussions.
Miller served as a Navy cook and, according to historical accounts, shot down multiple Japanese bombers during the Pearl Harbor attack without formal weapons training. He was awarded the Navy Cross for his actions and died at sea in 1943 when his ship was torpedoed by Japanese forces. His family has long sought an upgrade to his award to the Medal of Honor.
Derrick Johnson, president of the NAACP, characterized the reported plan as “a slap in the face to every war hero and every service member who has worn the uniform.” Johnson further argued that renaming the carrier would constitute a “mockery” of military service and represent “personal branding” rather than honoring service. Mark Kelly, a Democratic senator from Arizona and retired Navy officer, stated that Miller’s bravery was legendary and that the carrier “shouldn’t be renamed at all, let alone for Donald Trump.”
Historically, no aircraft carrier in the U.S. Navy has been named after a sitting president. The Navy and Department of Defense declined to comment on the reported plans, while the White House referred inquiries to the Defense Department. The reported renaming initiative prompted substantial criticism on social media and from military advocacy groups earlier this week.
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