Willard Miller facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Willard Dwight Miller
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Willard D. Miller
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| Born | June 5, 1877 Maitland, Nova Scotia, Canada |
| Died | February 19, 1959 (aged 81) |
| Buried | |
| Allegiance | United States of America |
| Service/ |
United States Navy |
| Rank | Seaman |
| Unit | USS Nashville (PG-7) |
| Battles/wars | Spanish–American War *Battle of Cienfuegos |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
| Relations | Harry H. Miller, brother – fellow Medal of Honor recipient |
| Other work | U.S. Lighthouse Service |
Willard Dwight Miller (born June 5, 1877 – died February 19, 1959) was a brave sailor in the United States Navy. He received America's highest military award, the Medal of Honor, for his actions during the Spanish–American War.
Willard Miller's Amazing Story
Willard Miller was born in Maitland, Nova Scotia, Canada, on June 5, 1877. He joined the U.S. Navy from the state of Massachusetts. He served during the Spanish–American War on a ship called the USS Nashville (PG-7). A gunboat is a small warship with cannons.
On May 11, 1898, Willard took part in a special mission. He was in a small boat off Cienfuegos, Cuba. His team's job was to cut an underwater telegraph cable. This cable was used to send messages. Cutting it would stop the enemy from communicating.
Willard showed great bravery during this action, which is known as the Battle of Cienfuegos. For his courage, he was awarded the Medal of Honor. This is the highest award for military bravery in the United States.
Willard's younger brother, Harry Herbert Miller, also received the Medal of Honor for the very same mission. This makes them one of only eight pairs of brothers to ever receive this special award.
Willard left the Navy in 1906. Later, he worked for the United States Lighthouse Service. This service helps keep ships safe by maintaining lighthouses.
Willard Miller passed away on February 19, 1959, when he was 81 years old. He is buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington County, Virginia. His grave is in Section 46, Lot 15.
