Remembrance

Martin Elmer Miller Jr. was born to his father Martin E. Miller Sr. and his mother, Helen Elizabeth Miller in Harrisburg on July 7, 1922. After graduating from John Harris High School, he attended Lehigh University. At 21 years old, he enlisted in the US Navy and joined the ranks of the USS Miantonomah as a Petty Officer 3rd Class/Motor Machinist's Mate 3rd Class. His job was to care for, monitor and operate the equipment on the ship. Miller and the rest of his crew on the Miantonomah played an important part in the war, sowing mines in the coastlines of enemy waters. On September 26, 1944, the ship sank due to an enemy mine. Fifty-eight crew members including Miller passed away having made an honorable sacrifice to their country. He faced the odds and put his life on the line for the United States in the name of freedom and democracy. This must be cherished and never forgotten.

Eligibility for a Purple Heart applies to service members who suffered a wound: 1) As the direct or indirect result of enemy action, and 2) The wound required treatment by a medical officer at the time of the injury.

 Granted to personnel who served one year of consecutive duty between December 7, 1941 to March 2, 1946 and within the continental borders of the U.S., as well as to those who served 30 consecutive or 60 non-consecutive days of duty outside the borders of the U.S. but within the American Theater of Operations.

Issued to every active duty enlisted sailor who completes three years of honorable and faithful service since 1 January 1996. For prior awards to personnel between 1 November 1963 and 1 January 1996, four years of service were required.