PLAQUE - WWII MILESTONES - D. MILLER 5 x 7

This WWII Milestones Granite Plaque depicts Doris Miller, Mess Attendant Second Class, USN, receiving the Navy Cross from Admiral Chester W. Nimitz. The medal was awarded for heroism on board USS West Virginia (BB-48) during the Pearl Harbor Attack, 7 December 1941.

The first African American hero of World War II, Doris Miller (1919-1943) became an inspiration to generations of Americans for his actions at Pearl Harbor.

Speaking of Miller, Nimitz remarked: 'This marks the first time in this conflict that such high tribute has been made in the Pacific Fleet to a member of his race and I'm sure that the future will see others similarly honored for brave acts'.

Although he was only the first of a number of African Americans to be recognized for their heroism in World War II, Miller is singularly remembered for providing inspiration to a campaign for equal recognition and opportunity for Blacks in the military, a campaign that bore fruit in 1948 when President Truman ordered "that there shall be equality and opportunity for all persons in the armed forces."

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