On May 4, 1942, Doris “Dorie” Miller, an African American sailor, was awarded the Navy Cross for his heroic actions during the attack on Pearl Harbor. As a cook aboard the USS West Virginia, Miller manned anti-aircraft guns during the attack—despite having no formal training—and helped carry wounded sailors to safety. His bravery under fire challenged racial stereotypes within the military and symbolized Black Americans’ commitment to the defense of a country that often marginalized them. Miller’s recognition was a powerful, though rare, acknowledgment of African American valor in World War II.
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