Navy discusses renaming aircraft carrier after Trump instead of heroic Black sailor

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August 20, 2026

By Courtney Kube and Mosheh Gains, NBC

The USS Doris Miller would be the first aircraft carrier named after a Black person and an enlisted sailor — a decision made during Trump’s first term.

Doris Miller was known for his bravery during the attack on Pearl Harbor and was the first African American to receive the Navy Cross

Navy leadership is discussing renaming a Navy aircraft carrier after President Donald Trump, according to two U.S. officials.

The ship, which is still under construction, has been set to be named the USS Doris Miller in honor of an enlisted sailor who famously staffed an anti-aircraft gun during the attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, during World War II despite not having been trained on the weapon. Miller, a mess attendant, grabbed the gun during the attack and is credited with shooting down at least one Japanese plane and dragging wounded U.S. sailors to safety.

Miller was the first Black service member to receive the Navy Cross — the Navy’s second-highest honor.

CNN first reported the discussions to rename the aircraft carrier.

The USS Doris Miller would be the first aircraft carrier named after a Black person and an enlisted sailor. The decision and the announcement to name the carrier after Miller were made during Trump’s first term.

The two U.S. officials said discussion about changing the name has been ongoing for several months.

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