Doris “Dorie” Miller: Courage at Pearl Harbor

Doris “Dorie” Miller was a U.S. Navy sailor whose courage during the attack on Pearl Harbor made him an American hero.

Born in Waco, Texas, in 1919, Miller served as a mess attendant because segregation limited opportunities for Black sailors.

On December 7, 1941, he helped move wounded sailors, including the captain of the USS West Virginia, then manned an anti-aircraft machine gun despite having no formal training.

His bravery earned him the Navy Cross, making him the first Black American to receive it. Miller’s legacy represents courage, service, and the fight for greater equality in the U.S. armed forces.