Navy Faces Backlash from NAACP for Considering Honoring President Trump with Aircraft Carrier
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The NAACP and other left-leaning activists are criticizing the Navy over reports that a future aircraft carrier may be named after President Donald Trump instead of WWII sailor Doris Miller. Critics claim this is disrespectful, while supporters argue Trump deserves recognition for his leadership.
On Friday, Black community leaders and the NAACP voiced their disapproval after reports surfaced that the U.S. Navy is considering naming a Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carrier after President Donald Trump, potentially replacing Doris Miller, a Black WWII sailor. Miller, who bravely assisted wounded crew and operated an anti-aircraft gun during the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack, has been advocated for the Medal of Honor and was set to become the first African American to have a carrier named after him.
NAACP President Derrick Johnson took to X to call the possible change 'a slap in the face to every war hero,' and criticized Trump for allegedly seeking personal recognition while referencing conditions aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln. However, supporters of the move argue that President Trump, as Commander-in-Chief, led the military through significant challenges and deserves to be honored for his service to the nation.
The Navy announced the Miller naming in 2020, with the CVN-81 carrier expected by 2034, but declined to comment on the reported change. Rep. Debbie Dingell, a Democrat, objected to the potential renaming, insisting that Miller’s recognition is vital for African American history. CNN reported the Navy may still name another ship after Miller and continue to recommend him for the Medal of Honor, while NBC noted the White House has not yet approved the award.
Civil-rights attorney Ben Crump claimed that removing Miller’s name would diminish recognition of Black heroes, but many believe that honoring a president who prioritized military strength is also appropriate. If the carrier keeps Miller’s name, it would be the first U.S. warship named after an African American. Miller’s family was not reached for comment.