Trump Signs Order to Rename Department of Defense to War

President Donald Trump has officially signed an executive order renaming the Department of Defense as the Department of War. This decision, made on November 3, 2023, aims to enhance the perception of American military strength globally. Trump stated, “It’s a much more appropriate name, especially in light of where the world is right now,” criticizing the previous name as “woke.”

The executive order aligns with the legislative efforts of some of Trump’s staunch supporters in Congress, who are pushing for a bill to codify the name change into law. According to the U.S. Constitution, only Congress has the authority to create, dissolve, or rename federal departments. In the absence of such legislation, Trump has granted the Pentagon the ability to use the new title informally.

Historical Context and Legislative Efforts

The Department of War was initially created in 1789 and maintained that title until it was renamed by President Harry Truman in 1947. This reorganization combined the Department of War with the Department of the Navy and the newly established independent Air Force, leading to the formation of the Department of Defense. Florida Republican Representative Greg Steube, an Army veteran, expressed support for the name change, stating, “It is only fitting that we pay tribute to their eternal example and renowned commitment to lethality.”

Senators Rick Scott of Florida and Mike Lee of Utah are introducing companion legislation in the Senate, reinforcing the move toward a more militaristic branding of the U.S. military. Trump’s assertion that the name change is necessary reflects a broader agenda to counter what he and his allies describe as “woke” ideology within military institutions.

Implications and Controversies

During a recent event at Fort Benning in Georgia, Trump emphasized the significance of the name change, suggesting that the United States has not won a major conflict since the Department of War was renamed. “We’re going to go on offense, not just on defense,” stated Pete Hegseth, the Pentagon leader who supported Trump during the announcement.

Trump has expressed a desire to revert to the Department of War due to its historical significance and perceived effectiveness. He noted, “Everybody likes that we had an unbelievable history of victory when it was Department of War.” When questioned about the necessity of Congressional approval for the name change, he confidently remarked, “We’re just going to do it. I’m sure Congress will go along if we need that.”

This name change is part of a broader initiative at the Pentagon, where Trump and Hegseth are actively reshaping military branding and terminology to reflect their views. The administration has previously attempted to restore the names of military bases honoring Confederate leaders, a move that has drawn ire from some Congressional Republicans. For instance, Representative Don Bacon of Nebraska criticized the administration’s actions, stating that it undermines Congressional authority.

As this initiative unfolds, the implications for U.S. military policy and international perception remain to be seen. The name change, while largely symbolic, signals a shift in the narrative surrounding American military engagement and strategy in a changing global landscape. The Associated Press contributed to this report, providing ongoing coverage of developments related to the U.S. Department of Defense.