Doris Miller
Born in Waco, Texas, on October 12, 1919, Doris ("Dorie") Miller enlisted in the U.S. Navy in September 1939 as a Mess Attendant Third Class. During the Japanese Attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, he served onboard USS West Virginia (BB-48). Distinguishing himself by courageous conduct and devotion to duty during the attack, he was awarded the Navy Cross in May 1942. Transferring to USS Indianapolis (CA-35), he received orders in May 1943 to USS Liscome Bay (CVE-56). Early in the morning of November 24, Cook Third Class Miller lost his life, along with 55 officers and 590 enlisted crew when Japanese submarine I-175 sank the escort carrier southeast of Makin Island, Gilbert Islands. Two hundred and seventy two of her crew were rescued. USS Miller (DE-1091) was named in his honor.
Other resources:
Downloadable African American Pamphlet
NHHC African American Experience
Image: 80-G-29804: Doris Miller, Mess Attendant First Class, USN. Talking with three other sailors and a civilian, during his visit to Naval Training Station, Great Lakes, Illinois, January 7, 1943. Official U.S. Navy photograph, now in the collections of the National Archives.
