2020: The Navy names CVN-81 for Dorie Miller
On January 20, 2020, Acting Secretary of the Navy Thomas B. Modly named the future Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carrier USS Doris Miller (CVN-81) during a ceremony at Pearl Harbor. The Navy said it would be the first aircraft carrier named for an African American and the first named for a Sailor honored for actions while serving in the enlisted ranks.
2026: Reports say the name may change
In August 2026, news reports citing sources familiar with Navy discussions said officials were weighing a change to the carrier’s name. President Donald Trump has been discussed as a possible namesake. The Navy has not publicly announced a final renaming decision, and the Defense Department has said it has nothing to announce at this time.
This site therefore describes the situation as a potential renaming. It does not claim that a final decision has been made or that President Trump personally ordered the name changed.
The Trump context
The context is relevant because the original naming occurred during President Trump’s first administration. At a White House event in February 2020, Trump praised the Navy’s decision and, after remarking that he had not received such an honor, responded to an audience member by saying, “One day, maybe.”
That remark does not by itself establish responsibility for the current discussions. It is included because Trump’s name is now reportedly among the possibilities being discussed for the carrier.
Another ship and a Medal of Honor
Recent reporting also says the Navy is looking at naming a different warship for Miller and that Miller is under strong consideration for a posthumous upgrade of his Navy Cross to the Medal of Honor.
NoStolenValor.com welcomes additional recognition for Dorie Miller. The campaign does not oppose another ship bearing his name, and it supports upgrading his award if the appropriate review concludes that his actions warrant the Medal of Honor.
Keep CVN-81 named USS Doris Miller. If Dorie Miller deserves the Medal of Honor, award it too.
Why the carrier matters
The carrier naming was not simply another ship name. The Navy itself emphasized its historic character when it announced the decision in 2020. Replacing that name would diminish a specific honor already publicly bestowed upon Miller and his legacy.
What “No Stolen Valor” means here
NoStolenValor.com uses the phrase “No Stolen Valor” as civic and political commentary concerning the potential removal or diminishment of a military honor already bestowed upon Dorie Miller. It does not allege false claims of military service, decorations, or awards.