What Did Dorie Miller Do to Receive the Navy Cross?
Dorie Miller, a mess attendant on the USS West Virginia, is one of the most renowned heroes of the United States Navy. On December 7, 1941, Miller’s bravery and quick thinking in the face of overwhelming odds earned him the Navy Cross, the United States’ second-highest award for valor. But what exactly did he do to receive this prestigious honor?
Background: The Attack on Pearl Harbor
On that fateful day, the USS West Virginia was docked at Ford Island in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, when the Japanese launched a surprise attack on the U.S. naval base. The ship was hit by multiple torpedoes and bombs, causing significant damage and loss of life.
Miller’s Heroic Actions
As the attack unfolded, Miller, a 23-year-old mess attendant, was on duty in the ship’s mess hall. When the officer of the deck, Ensign Charles McVay III, was wounded and unable to respond, Miller sprang into action.
Here are the key actions that earned Miller the Navy Cross:
• Moved wounded to safety: Miller quickly moved the wounded officers and crew members to safer areas of the ship, including the captain’s cabin.
• Assisted in fighting the fires: Miller helped to fight the fires that had broken out on the ship, risking his own life to extinguish the flames and prevent further damage.
• Loaded wounded onto lifeboats: As the ship began to list and take on water, Miller helped load the wounded onto lifeboats, ensuring that they had a chance to escape the sinking ship.
• Aided in the abandonment of ship: Miller assisted in the abandonment of the USS West Virginia, helping to ensure that all personnel had safely evacuated the ship before it sank.
Awards and Recognition
For his bravery and selflessness in the face of overwhelming danger, Miller was awarded the Navy Cross on May 27, 1942. The Navy Cross is the United States’ second-highest award for valor, and Miller was the first African American to receive the honor.
Table: Awards and Recognition
| Award | Date | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Navy Cross | May 27, 1942 | For extraordinary heroism and conspicuous gallantry in action against enemy Japanese forces |
The Legacy of Dorie Miller
Dorie Miller’s heroism on December 7, 1941, has been recognized and honored in many ways. In 1942, he was promoted to Coxswain, and he went on to serve in the Navy until his discharge in 1945. After the war, Miller was awarded the Purple Heart and the World War II Victory Medal.
In 1973, the United States Navy commissioned the USS Miller (DE-327), a destroyer escort, in his honor. Additionally, the Navy has named several ships, including submarines and destroyers, after Miller.
Conclusion
Dorie Miller’s heroism on December 7, 1941, is a testament to his bravery and selflessness. His actions that day not only saved the lives of his fellow sailors but also inspired a generation of Americans to serve their country with honor and distinction. Today, Miller’s legacy continues to inspire and motivate those who serve in the United States Navy, and his heroism will always be remembered as a shining example of courage and sacrifice.
Additional Resources
- National Museum of the Pacific War: "Dorie Miller and the USS West Virginia"
- USS West Virginia Battleship Memorial Foundation: "Dorie Miller and the USS West Virginia"
- Navy History and Heritage Command: "Dorie Miller"
