The Milford Museum’s American History Series continues with a powerful and inspiring presentation, “Dorie Miller: Hero of Pearl Harbor,” led by educator and author Dante Brizill. The program will be held on Saturday, November 8, at 1:00 p.m. at the Milford Public Library, located at 11 S.E. Front Street in Milford.
Doris “Dorie” Miller was a mess attendant aboard the battleship USS West Virginia during the surprise Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Despite having no formal weapons training and serving in a segregated, non-combat role, Miller displayed extraordinary courage. After carrying his mortally wounded captain to safety, he manned an anti-aircraft gun and fired at enemy planes until he ran out of ammunition. His actions saved lives and inspired a nation.
For his heroism, Miller became the first African American to receive the Navy Cross, awarded by Admiral Chester W. Nimitz in 1942. His story was widely covered by the African American press, making him a symbol of both patriotism and the fight for racial equality during World War II. Tragically, Miller was killed in action in 1943 when his ship, the escort carrier USS Liscome Bay, was struck by a Japanese torpedo in the Pacific. His legacy continues to be honored through numerous tributes, including the USS Miller frigate, the Doris “Dorie” Miller Memorial Park in Waco, Texas, and most recently, the aircraft carrier USS Doris Miller (CVN-81), named in 2020.
Presenter Dante Brizill brings a deep understanding of Miller’s story and its historical context. A Philadelphia native and veteran educator, Brizill has taught Social Studies in Maryland and Delaware for nearly two decades. He holds a B.A. in History from Hampton University and a Master’s in Education from Wesley College. Brizill is also a published author of Greatness Under Fire, a series highlighting African American heroes of World War II, and has written for newspapers and national periodicals across the country.
The Milford Museum’s American History Series offers monthly programs exploring local, state, and national history topics. Events are held on the second Saturday of each month at 1:00 p.m. in the Milford Public Library.
For more information, contact the Milford Museum at (302) 424-1080 or send an email . These programs are made possible through the support of the Delaware Heritage Commission.
