Doris Miller

first African American to be awarded the Navy Cross

Doris "Dorie" Miller (October 12, 1919 – November 24, 1943) was an American Naval cook. He was the first Black recipient of the Navy Cross. He was also a nominee for the Medal of Honor.[1]

Doris Miller
Miller wearing his Navy Cross in May 1942
Nickname"Dorie"
Born(1919-10-12)October 12, 1919
Waco, Texas, U.S.
DiedNovember 24, 1943(1943-11-24) (aged 24)
USS Liscome Bay, off Makin Atoll, Gilbert and Ellice Islands
Allegiance United States of America
Service/branch United States Navy
Years of service1939–1943
RankCook Petty Officer Third Class
Service number356-12-35
Unit
Battles/warsWorld War II
Awards

He won the Navy Cross because of his heroism in fighting the Japanese bombers at Pearl Harbor.

References change

  1. "Veteran Tributes". veterantributes.org. Retrieved September 25, 2023.

Other websites change

  Media related to Dorie Miller at Wikimedia Commons