Dorie Miller Biography
| Occup. | Celebrity |
| From | USA |
| Born | October 12, 1919
Waco, Texas, USA |
| Died | November 24, 1943
USS Liscome Bay, off Makin Atoll, Gilbert and Ellice Islands |
| Aged | 24 years |
Early Life
Dorie Miller was born on October 12, 1919, to Connery and Henrietta Miller in Waco, Texas. He was the 3rd of 4 sons born in a family of subsistence farmers. Growing up in a close-knit family, Dorie's strong work principles and sense of duty were instilled at an early age while he helped his daddy on the farm. In his spare time, Dorie was an active individual in high school sports, in which he excelled in football and track.
Military Service
Unable to discover a stable job in his hometown, Dorie signed up with the U.S. Navy in 1939, wishing to attend to his family much better. He got standard training at the Naval Training Station in Norfolk, Virginia. Regardless of an uncertain environment mostly due to racial discrimination, Miller showed determination and commitment to the armed force.
Although African Americans were restricted mostly to functions such as cooks and stewards throughout World War II, Miller worked his way through the ranks, ultimately becoming a Ship's Cook Third Class. He was designated to the USS West Virginia in January 1940 and later transferred to the ammunition ship USS Pyro prior to rejoining the West Virginia, which was his routine ship.
Pearl Harbor Attack
On December 7, 1941, Dorie Miller's life changed forever when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor. Miller, who had been gathering laundry on the ship, rapidly rushed to the antiaircraft battery space to assist in moving the mortally injured Captain Mervyn Bennion.
When the gunman of a close-by antiaircraft gun was injured, Miller, who had no official weapons training, took his location and skillfully shot down numerous attacking Japanese airplanes. Despite the chaos, he demonstrated extraordinary bravery and marksmanship in the height of fight, conserving countless lives. According to some reports, Miller had the ability to shoot down 3 to 4 Japanese aircrafts before being ordered to abandon the sinking ship.
Recognition and Awards
Initially unacknowledged for his actions throughout the Pearl Harbor attack, Miller's story eventually acquired traction in the press, catapulting him into the nationwide spotlight as one of the very first African American heroes to be acknowledged throughout World War II. He was granted the Navy Cross for his valor, and in May 1942, he was among the first heroes granted the newly established Navy and Marine Corps Medal.
Miller continued his service during World War II, seeking opportunities to show himself and additional break racial barriers. He was promoted to Ship's Cook Second Class in June 1942 and continued to get recognition, including being featured on posters for the Navy's recruitment project.
Final Service and Death
In April 1943, Miller was moved to the submarine tender USS Liscome Bay. On November 20, 1943, the ship took part in the assault on the Gilbert Islands. Sadly, tragedy struck when a Japanese submarine torpedoed the Liscome Bay on November 24. The ship sunk within minutes, declaring the lives of 646 crew members, consisting of Dorie Miller. He was stated missing in action however was later on presumed dead in November 1944.
Legacy
Dorie Miller's heroism at Pearl Harbor and during World War II has left a long-lasting tradition, motivating generations of African Americans to pursue positions in the military despite racial barriers. His actions and subsequent acknowledgment played a considerable role in ultimately desegregating the militaries, giving talented people from all races a possibility to serve their nation with honor.
In 1973, the U.S. Navy commissioned the USS Miller (FF-1091), a frigate called in Dorie Miller's honor. In addition, schools, parks, community centers, and different centers across the nation have been called after him as a testament to his nerve, determination, and dedication to his country.
Our collection contains 1 quotes who is written / told by Dorie.
Related authors: Lawrence Taylor (Athlete)
Source / external links:
