Trump Renames Pentagon “Department of War” in Oval Office Ceremony

Lead: President Trump signed an executive order on September 5 in Washington, D.C., directing the Defense Department to adopt the historic title “Department of War” as a secondary moniker, emphasizing a tougher posture for U.S. forces.

Nut Graf: The move, announced during an Oval Office event, revives the department’s pre-World War II name to underscore readiness and resolve. Though official renaming requires congressional approval, the order authorizes immediate use of “Department of War” and compels Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to propose measures for permanent change.

Order Details and Rationale

  • Secondary Titles Authorized: The executive order permits the Pentagon and its leaders to employ “Department of War,” “Secretary of War,” and “Deputy Secretary of War” in official correspondence, ceremonies, and non-statutory documents.
  • Legislative Push: Hegseth must recommend legislative and executive actions to cement the renaming into law, with Trump’s Republican allies holding narrow Congressional majorities.
  • Projected Costs: Transitioning signage, stationery, and global base markers will incur substantial expense-past base-renaming efforts cost tens of millions of dollars. Critics warn it diverts funds from service members and missions.

Historical Context

  • Original Title: Established in 1789, the War Department oversaw the Army and Navy until post-1947 reorganizations merged service branches under the Department of Defense to reflect joint, peacetime strategy.
  • Truman Reforms: President Truman’s 1947 National Security Act renamed the agency to better capture multifaceted defense roles beyond wartime command.

Reactions and Implications

Supporters

  • Military Ethos: Hegseth lauded the change as restoring a “warrior ethos” and signaling U.S. willingness to both defend and decisively engage adversaries.
  • Political Messaging: Trump framed the renaming as correcting an overly “defensive” label and projecting strength amid global tensions.

Critics

  • Budget Concerns: Senator Tammy Duckworth questioned using resources on rebranding instead of supporting troops or diplomacy, labeling it a political stunt.
  • Congressional Hurdle: Permanent renaming hinges on legislation; some lawmakers may resist despite party loyalties due to cost and symbolism.

What’s Next

  • Congressional Action: Draft bills introduced this session aim to streamline federal department reorganizations and could fast-track Trump’s proposal.
  • Implementation Timeline: Stationery and ceremonial updates will roll out as existing materials deplete, while Hegseth’s legislative recommendations are due within weeks.

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