President Trump is set to sign an executive order on Friday, September 5th, renaming the Department of Defense to the Department of War.
Patriotic Symbolism
The change, according to the White House, symbolizes Trump’s efforts to give the US military a more offensive character, drawing on the traditions of military victories from the First and Second World Wars.
Stakes and Controversy
Republican leaders control both Senate and House committees, and there is no indication of opposition in Congress. Critics, including Democratic senators like Tammy Duckworth, argue that the change is costly, requiring new signage and documentation not just for Pentagon officials in Washington, but for military units worldwide. The Department of Defense previously bore the name “Department of War” from 1949 until the name was changed to signal a focus on nuclear deterrence.
Diplomatic Context
Reuters highlights that while name changes are rare, they do require congressional approval. The Department of Defense is expected to continue fulfilling its current duties despite the change in name.
