Navy considers renaming USS Doris Miller
Analysis based on 9 articles · First reported Aug 21, 2026 · Last updated Aug 21, 2026
The potential renaming of a major naval vessel could affect defense contractors involved in the Ford-class program, though the direct financial impact is limited. The controversy may influence public perception of the administration's defense policies and could affect political sentiment around military naming decisions.
The U.S. Navy is considering renaming the Ford-class aircraft carrier CVN-81, currently designated USS Doris Miller, to honor President Donald Trump, according to three sources familiar with internal discussions. The carrier, under construction in Virginia, was named in 2020 to honor USS Doris Miller, a Black sailor who heroically defended U.S. forces during the attack on Pearl Harbor. The Navy has reportedly stopped referring to the ship by name internally, and discussions have been ongoing most of the summer. The Navy is also recommending Miller for the Medal of Honor and may name a different warship after him. The renaming effort is part of broader Pentagon efforts under Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to remove names associated with diversity, equity, and inclusion. The ship's keel-laying ceremony is expected at the end of this year, and the ship is not expected to be delivered until 2034. Miller's family was not informed of the potential change and expressed shock, hoping the name is retained or another carrier is named for him. The move would be unprecedented, as no aircraft carrier has been named after a sitting president.
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