NAACP President condemns Navy's reported plan to replace Doris Miller carrier name with Trump

NAACP President Derrick Johnson publicly condemned the U.S. Navy on Friday after reports surfaced that the service was considering renaming the aircraft carrier USS Doris Miller, the Navy’s first vessel to honor a Black World War II hero. Johnson’s social‑media post described the alleged discussions as “a slap in the face” to African‑American service members and to the legacy of Seaman First Class Doris Miller, who earned the Navy Cross for his bravery during the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941. The carrier, slated for commissioning later this year, has been celebrated as a milestone in the Navy’s efforts to recognize the contributions of minorities.

According to multiple sources, Navy officials explored alternative names, including that of former President Donald Trump, before the story was reported. The Navy has not confirmed any formal proposal to rename the ship, stating that naming decisions are made through a rigorous review process involving senior leadership and congressional input. Johnson’s criticism underscores ongoing debates over how the military commemorates historical figures and the broader push for greater representation within the armed forces. The Navy has indicated it will continue to evaluate naming options in accordance with established protocols.