Today, we honor the extraordinary bravery of Doris Miller, a U.S. Navy Mess Attendant who became one of the most recognizable American heroes of World War II.

On the morning of December 7, 1941, as the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor, Miller was serving aboard the USS West Virginia. When the ship was struck, Miller didn’t hesitate. He raced to aid the mortally wounded captain, carried injured shipmates to safety, and then, without any formal weapons training, manned a .50 caliber anti-aircraft gun and returned fire against the enemy.

For his courage under fire, Doris Miller became the first African American to be awarded the Navy Cross, one of the Navy’s highest honors.

Though he lost his life in 1943 when the USS Liscome Bay was torpedoed, his legacy lives on as a symbol of courage, patriotism, and service above self.

Thank you, Doris Miller. Your bravery continues to inspire generations.