US Navy considers renaming aircraft carrier after Trump in lieu of war hero

The US Navy is considering renaming an aircraft carrier under construction that was originally named after Doris Miller, a Black sailor who was recognised for his actions during Japan’s attack on Pearl Harbour, CNN reports, citing three sources familiar with internal discussions.

The Ford-class carrier was designated the USS Doris Miller during US President Donald Trump’s first term. Miller, an enlisted sailor, helped defend US forces during the December 1941 attack and later became a symbol of heroism in the US Navy.

The Navy has not disclosed a possible new name for the carrier. However, two sources said there have been internal discussions about naming the ship after Trump. Such a move would be unprecedented, as US aircraft carriers have not traditionally been named after a sitting president.

According to one source, the Navy is instead considering naming another warship after Miller and recommending him for the Medal of Honour, the US military’s highest award for valour. The final decision on the award would require authorisation from Congress and approval by Trump.

Amid the discussions, the Navy has reportedly stopped referring to the carrier as the USS Doris Miller internally and is using its hull number, CVN-81, instead.

A recent White House executive order on shipbuilding also referred to the vessel only as CVN-81. The order directed the Secretary of Defence and Secretary of the Navy to develop a plan to replace the carrier’s electromagnetic aircraft launch system with steam and hydraulic systems.

Trump’s name and image have appeared increasingly frequently in the naming and design of US government and public facilities during his second term. He has sought to rename the John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts in Washington in his honour, while US media have also reported proposals involving Pennsylvania Station in New York and Dulles International Airport near Washington.

Trump’s signature has also appeared on a new design for the $100 bill, while his portrait was featured in a commemorative edition of US passports marking the 250th anniversary of US independence.

By Sabina Mammadli