The Rev. William Corby, C.S.C., Award - 2011: Lt. Cmdr. Robert L. Miller, Sr. '42, '47 J.D.

2011: Lt. Cmdr. Robert L. Miller, Sr. '42, '47 J.D.

Established in 1985, the Rev. William Corby, C.S.C., Award is conferred on an alumnus/alumna (living or deceased) who has distinguished himself or herself in military service. The award is presented in honor of Notre Dame's third president, who was a celebrated Civil War chaplain of the Union army's Irish Brigade. 

The 2011 Rev. William Corby, C.S.C. Award winner is Lt. Cmdr. Robert L. Miller, Sr. '42, '47 J.D.

As the recipient of the Rev. William Corby, C.S.C., Award, Lt. Cmdr. Robert L. Miller, Sr. ’42, ’47 J.D. USNR (Ret.) is recognized for his distinguished military service and dedication to serving his country. This award is named for the University of Notre Dame’s third president, who himself was a celebrated military man, serving as chaplain to the Union Army’s Irish Brigade during the Civil War.

A former Superior Court Judge, Miller was a Naval officer in World War II and received the Purple Heart for wounds inflicted during the Battle of Okinawa. He was recalled to active duty to serve during the Korean War and retired with the rank of lieutenant commander.

Having earned his law degree at Notre Dame, Miller remained involved in veterans’ issues during a career as a lawyer and judge. He founded “Miller’s Vets” in 2009 to assist impoverished veterans, giving them housing, military uniforms, “boot camp” refreshers, and chances to participate in parades and community events.

The organization also does “Last Salute” military funerals for no charge, providing a casket, undertaker services, 21-gun salute, and internment at Miller’s Vets Garden of Peace at Portage Manor in South Bend. Miller received a Sagamore of the Wabash Award in 1996.