The United States Navy is reportedly contemplating a significant name change for its next aircraft carrier, initially designated to honour a celebrated African American hero. The vessel, which was to be named the USS Doris Miller in recognition of the legendary sailor’s bravery during World War II, may now be renamed in tribute to former President Donald Trump.
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According to a CNN report released on August 21, discussions within the Navy suggest that the ship, currently referred to by its hull number CVN-81, could instead carry the name of the 80-year-old former president. This potential move has raised eyebrows, given that the original decision to name the vessel after Doris Miller was announced during Trump’s administration, highlighting the historic significance of the honour.
Doris Miller gained fame for his heroic actions during the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. As one of the first Black servicemen to receive the Navy Cross—the second-highest military honour awarded by the Navy—Miller’s courageous defence of his fellow sailors against Japanese forces has been widely celebrated. While there has been speculation regarding Miller possibly receiving the Medal of Honor, this has yet to be finalised pending further approvals from Congress and the White House.
The decision to rename the aircraft carrier appears to be part of broader discussions within the Navy. In recent communications, the ship has been routinely referred to as CVN-81, rather than by its intended name, USS Doris Miller. Notably, this shift in nomenclature was also reflected in a recent executive order from the White House.
Thomas Bledsoe, Miller’s great-nephew, expressed surprise at the continued speculation regarding the renaming of the ship and the potential award of the Medal of Honor, stating he had not been made aware of any such discussions. This indicates a lack of communication surrounding the matter, particularly given the historical weight attached to Miller’s legacy.
Former Acting Secretary of the Navy, Thomas Modly, announced at a Martin Luther King Jr. Day ceremony in Pearl Harbor in January 2020 that the aircraft carrier would be named in Miller’s honour. He emphasised how this naming would represent a unifying symbol within the Navy. “An American sailor—so designated by the uniform he wore—represents all sailors, regardless of race, ethnic background or political persuasion,” Modly stated.
Miller’s legacy as a pioneering figure in military history is well-documented. His actions during the Pearl Harbor attack, where he untrainedly operated a weapon to protect his comrades and aided in evacuating wounded sailors, have become emblematic of courage and dedication amidst adversity. Following his service during the war, Miller continued to serve as a mess attendant until his death in 1943.
In general, aircraft carriers are typically named after U.S. presidents, while destroyers are often named after recipients of the Medal of Honor. The decision regarding the ship’s name will ultimately rest with Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and acting Navy Secretary Hung Cao.
The keel-laying ceremony for CVN-81 is slated for later this year, though the ship is not expected to enter service until 2034. As the Navy navigates these decisions, the implications of naming such vessels resonate deeply within the fabric of American society.
Modly previously remarked on the symbolism of these names, indicating that they should reflect the heroism, patriotism, and sacrifices of all American sailors—not just those in command. In this context, a decision to rename the carrier to honour Donald Trump rather than Doris Miller raises critical questions about representation and memory within military tradition and American history.
The Navy has yet to issue a formal statement regarding these developments, and additional comments from officials remain pending. As the situation evolves, it is clear that the outcome could significantly impact the legacy associated with the vessel and the recognition of its originally intended namesake.