NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — Doris "Dorie" Miller's actions of bravery during the Battle of Pearl Harbor saved dozens of men and cemented him as a historical figure. The Mariners' Museum is hosting an event at the Main Street Library to explore and celebrate his story on Saturday.
Ed Moore of the Mariners' Speaker says "While [Miller] was training in Hampton Roads he won the heavyweight boxing championship for his squadron." This moment in his life was inaccurately depicted in the movie "Pearl Harbor" (2001) as taking place at the Navy base in Hawaii.
"[Miller] was the first African American Winner of the Navy Cross and Medal of Honor nominee for his actions at Pearl Harbor... during the battle of Pearl Harbor with most of the crew dead and the ship sinking, he took over the 50 caliber machine gun... and fought the Japanese," says Moore.
"He was one of the last three men on board the West Virginia as it was sinking, jumped into the water and saved dozens of men. Dorie Miller’s heroic story looks at the segregated Navy of the past, and represents how his actions helped spur the integration of the US Navy."
You can learn about the detailed story of Miller's life at an event happening Saturday at the Newport News Main Street Public Library starting at 2:00 p.m. WWII-style eclairs and treats will be served afterward.