H.R. 2336: Doris Miller Congressional Gold Medal Act

This bill is titled the Doris Miller Congressional Gold Medal Act and proposes to award a Congressional Gold Medal posthumously to Doris Miller, an African-American sailor in the U.S. Navy during World War II, in recognition of his acts of valor. The main points of the bill are as follows:

Key Provisions

• Honor Doris Miller: The bill seeks to commemorate Doris Miller for his bravery during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941, when he knowingly put himself in danger to assist his fellow sailors and operate a weapon despite having no formal training.
• Posthumous Presentation: The Speaker of the House and the President pro tempore of the Senate are tasked with arranging the presentation of the gold medal in honor of Miller’s courageous actions. This presentation is specifically intended to be a public acknowledgment of his heroism.
• Design and Production: The Secretary of the Treasury will create a gold medal that features suitable emblems and inscriptions to honor Doris Miller’s contribution and bravery during the war.
• Display at Smithsonian: After the award, the gold medal will be given to the Smithsonian Institution, where it will be available for public display and research. Additionally, Congress expresses that the medal should be displayed in other locations significant to Miller’s legacy.
• Duplicates: The Secretary of the Treasury is allowed to produce and sell bronze duplicates of the gold medal. The sale proceeds will help cover the costs associated with producing the medals.
• Funding: The expenses for the production of the gold medal can be charged against the United States Mint Public Enterprise Fund, which is a fund used to support the operations of the U.S. Mint.

Background on Doris Miller

• Doris Miller was serving aboard the USS West Virginia during the Pearl Harbor attack. He took on an active combat role, despite being assigned to a service position due to racial discrimination that prohibited him from combat training.
• He was recognized for his actions during the attack, which included helping to evacuate wounded sailors and manning a .50 caliber gun to defend the ship against enemy aircraft.
• Miller received the Navy Cross, one of the military's highest honors for bravery, which was awarded to him personally by Admiral Chester Nimitz.

Conclusion of the Act

The act emphasizes the significant role that Doris Miller played during a pivotal moment in American history, as well as addressing the need to recognize the contributions of African-American service members in the U.S. military. The Congressional Gold Medal serves as a symbol of national appreciation for his valor and sacrifice.

Relevant Companies