Congressman Kweisi Mfume Introduces Bills to Honor Pearl Harbor Hero Doris “Dorie” Miller

On National Medal of Honor Day, Congressman Kweisi Mfume announced a legislative effort to posthumously recognize the extraordinary bravery of Mess Attendant Doris “Dorie” Miller, a Black naval hero of Pearl Harbor. Mfume introduced two bills aimed at awarding Miller both the Medal of Honor and a Congressional Gold Medal – a long-overdue tribute to his courage and sacrifice.

During the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor, Miller – then serving in the racially segregated steward’s branch of the U.S. Navy – took decisive action amid chaos. Despite having no formal training on anti-aircraft weapons, he manned a gun and shot down enemy planes, defending his ship and fellow sailors.

His heroism marked a pivotal moment in American military history, yet he never received the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest military distinction.

A Long Overdue Recognition

“Today is ‘Dorie Miller Day’ on Capitol Hill,” Congressman Mfume declared. “Dorie Miller protected America, and we are all the beneficiaries of his bravery.

His valiance is even more admirable because he fought to save a democracy that did not fully recognize his own rights at the time. The U.S. military did not become fully integrated until nearly seven years after his heroism in World War II.”

Mfume also acknowledged the work of the late Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson, who had championed this cause for decades.

“I am honored to continue the efforts of my friend, Congresswoman Johnson, who fought to secure the Medal of Honor for Miller since 2001. While the Trump administration seeks to erase Black history from the American narrative, I am launching a dual-tracked legislative effort to ensure that Miller receives both the Medal of Honor and a Congressional Gold Medal.

It’s time for our nation to give him the recognition he so rightfully deserves,” Mfume concluded.

A Hero’s Legacy

Dorie Miller’s bravery has been acknowledged in the past with a Navy Cross – making him the first Black sailor to receive that honor – but his story remains underappreciated in mainstream history. If successful, Mfume’s legislation will cement Miller’s legacy alongside the nation’s greatest military heroes, ensuring his sacrifice and valor are never forgotten.