Trump Signs Order to Rename Defense Department to War Department

US President Donald Trump is set to sign an executive order on March 15, 2024, that will officially change the name of the Department of Defense to the Department of War. This marks a significant reversion to a title not used since the 1940s, reflecting Trump’s ongoing emphasis on projecting military strength.

A White House official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, confirmed that the name change will include renaming the Pentagon’s briefing room to the “Pentagon War Annex.” Additionally, updates will be made to the department’s website and signage. The plans were initially reported by Fox News Digital.

Trump has long expressed a desire to rename the department, despite highlighting his efforts to reduce military engagement abroad. He has frequently suggested on social media that Pete Hegseth, the US Secretary of Defense, should be referred to as the “Secretary of War.” Last month, he stated, “We won World War I, we won World War II, we won everything, and it just to me seems much more appropriate.” He argued that the term “defense” implies a more passive stance, advocating for a name that suggests a readiness for offensive action.

During a speech at Fort Benning on March 14, 2024, Hegseth hinted at the impending change, indicating that his title might evolve. He stated, “We’ll see what tomorrow brings.” This aligns with Trump and Hegseth’s shared goal of fostering a more aggressive image for the military, even as Trump claims credit for ending several conflicts during his presidency.

Despite asserting that he has brought an end to conflicts, Trump has authorized multiple military strikes, including operations against Houthi rebels in Yemen, a strike on Iran’s nuclear program, and recent actions against alleged drug traffickers in the Caribbean Sea. His administration has also faced scrutiny for involving the military in immigration enforcement, deploying the National Guard in Washington, D.C., with permission to carry weapons.

Trump’s approach to renaming the Department of Defense raises questions regarding the necessity of Congressional approval. He has expressed confidence that Congress will support the change, stating, “We’re just going to do it; I don’t even think we need that.”

Historically, the 1947 National Security Act merged the War Department, established in 1789, with the Department of the Navy and the Air Force into what was then called the National Military Establishment. This entity was renamed the Department of Defense in a 1949 amendment to the National Security Act.

Trump has tasked Hegseth with revitalizing the military, claiming it was significantly weakened under former President Joe Biden. His administration has pointed to strong recruitment numbers as evidence of broad public support for his military policies.

The upcoming name change is poised to ignite discussions about the implications of such a rebranding and its potential impact on military and foreign policy moving forward.