WACO, Texas (KXXV) — Waco admirers of native son, and World War II hero Doris Miller sounded off against reports Miller's name may replaced by President Trump's name on a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier now under construction.
- “He is our national hero, not just a local hero," said resident Yeonne Mooney.
- He gave his life to the Navy. He was very selfless," said Salena James, great-niece of Doris Miller.
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“He is our national hero, not just a local hero," said resident Yeonne Mooney.
Like many Wacoans, Yeonne Mooney thinks extremely highly of Doris Dorie)Miller. She said that she heard reports of the U.S. Navy stripping Miller's name from a new aircraft carrier and possibly replacing it with President Donald Trump's name.
“We love him; he is in many, many school books. I object to him wanting his name on the aircraft carrier that is bearing Doris Miller's name," said Mooney.
The Navy originally planned to honor Miller for his heroic actions during the attack on Pearl Harbor.
Miller had been assigned to be a cook, but during the attack, he helped evacuate sailors and also took over a gun on his battleship and helped shoot down enemy planes.
During President Trump's first term, the Navy announced it would name an upcoming aircraft carrier after Miller.
According to CNN, the ship's name could be changed to President Trump's name instead.
Our 25 News reporter talked to Miller's great-niece, Salena James, who said Miller was dedicated to serving others.
"He gave his life to the Navy. He was very selfless. He didn't care about color or social backgrounds; none of that mattered to him when it came time for him to step up," said Salena James, great-niece to Doris Miller.
James said her family wants Miller to be honored the right way, with a congressional medal.
Other local neighbors also spoke up about the incident.
“It’s just the fact that someone who actually saved lives on an aircraft carrier would be denied the honor of representing our country; it made me feel a little bad," said Carol Dugat, a resident.
Typically, the Navy generally names an aircraft carrier after a past U.S. President.
Waco neighbors who question the change said they have valid reasons.
“Especially considering who the choice was…someone who did not make the same impact as someone who did not make the same impact on an aircraft carrier and, in fact, who did not even serve in the military," said Dugat.
