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First African-American to be awarded the Navy Cross...
First African-American to be awarded the Navy Cross...
Item # 722622
May 28, 1942
THE NEW YORK TIMES, May 28, 1942
* Doris 'Dorie' Miller awarded Navy Cross
* 1st African American to achieve this honor
* Attack on Pearl Harbor hero
Page 8 contains a significant report under the one column heads: "Medals Given to 9 By Admiral Nimitz" "Negro Hero Honored With Ship Commanders and Airmen".the text reading in part: "...Admiral Nimitz...made special mention of a Negro mess attendant, Doris Miller, who won the Navy Cross for bravery at Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7. 'This marks the first time in the present conflict that such high tribute has been made in the Pacific Fleet to a member of his race, and I am sure that the future will see others similarly honored for brave acts,' Admiral Nimitz said..." (see).
This is the complete issue with all 36 pages, rag edition in great condition.
background: Doris "Dorie" Miller was a messman in the U.S. Navy who became a hero during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Assigned to the USS West Virginia, Miller was on deck when the Japanese attack began. Despite not being trained in gunnery, he bravely manned a .50-caliber Browning machine gun and fired at Japanese planes while under heavy fire, all while helping to move wounded sailors to safety. His courageous actions made him one of the first African Americans to receive the Navy Cross, the second-highest military honor. Miller's heroism not only earned him widespread recognition but also drew attention to the contributions of African Americans in World War II, a time of racial segregation in the military. His legacy remains a powerful symbol of bravery and service.
Category: The 20th Century
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