Doris Miller Congressional Gold Medal Act

119th Congress Introduced by Kweisi Mfume

The Doris Miller Congressional Gold Medal Act honors WWII hero Doris Miller with a gold medal, recognizing his bravery and promoting awareness of African American military contributions.

Introduced in House

Purpose and Intent

The Doris Miller Congressional Gold Medal Act aims to honor the legacy of Doris "Dorie" Miller, an African American sailor who displayed extraordinary bravery during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. This legislation seeks to award him the Congressional Gold Medal, one of the highest civilian honors in the United States, recognizing his valor and contributions to the military and American history.

Key Provisions

Award of Congressional Gold Medal: The bill proposes the issuance of a Congressional Gold Medal in honor of Doris Miller for his heroic actions during World War II.

Design and Specifications: The bill may include provisions regarding the design of the medal, ensuring it reflects Miller's contributions and the historical significance of his actions.

Funding and Production: The legislation will outline the financial aspects related to the production of the medal, including any appropriations necessary for its creation and distribution.

Affected Parties

Doris Miller's Legacy: The bill directly impacts the recognition of Doris Miller, ensuring that his contributions are formally acknowledged in U.S. history.

Veterans and Military Community: This act serves as a broader recognition of the sacrifices made by African American service members during World War II and their contributions to the military.

Public Awareness: The act aims to educate the public about Doris Miller's story and the role of African Americans in the military, fostering a greater understanding of diversity in U.S. history.

Legislative Process and Timeline

Introduced: The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on March 25, 2025.

Committee Referral: Upon introduction, HR 2336 was referred to the Committee on Financial Services and the Committee on House Administration for further consideration. The Speaker will determine the period for which the bill will be reviewed by these committees.

Conclusion

The Doris Miller Congressional Gold Medal Act serves to honor a significant figure in American history, promoting recognition of African American contributions to the military. By awarding the Congressional Gold Medal, the bill seeks to ensure that Doris Miller's bravery is remembered and celebrated, contributing to a more inclusive narrative of U.S. history. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, it has the potential to inspire discussions about valor, service, and recognition in the military community.

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