Defense Department rebranded as 'Department of War' by Trump

The White House has announced a significant change at the Pentagon, with President Donald Trump set to sign an executive order renaming the Department of Defense to the Department of War. This move, aimed at conveying a stronger message of readiness and resolve, is the latest overhaul at the Pentagon since Trump took office.

The Department of War, which historically oversaw American land forces, was established in the early days of US independence. After World War II, a government reorganization brought the Department of War, along with the US Navy and Air Force, under the unified National Military Establishment. In 1949, the Department of Defense was established, replacing the National Military Establishment.

The new name, Department of War, will serve as a secondary title for the administration. Trump's order instructs the Secretary of War, a position yet to be filled, to recommend actions, including legislative and executive actions, required to permanently rename the department. Defense officials are permitted to use the new title in official correspondence, public communications, ceremonial contexts, and non-statutory documents within the executive branch.

Pete Hegseth, a former Fox News host and combat veteran, has been appointed to lead the Department of Defense. Hegseth, who has lambasted prior administrations for policies he and Trump have derided as "woke," has repeatedly touted the push to restore a "warrior ethos" in the department. Hegseth has also been vocal in his support of expelling transgender troops from the military and changing the names of bases that honored Confederate troops back to their original titles.

It's important to note that while the order authorizes the name change, final Congressional approval is required for permanence. The president has repeatedly mentioned the possibility of such a name change in recent weeks. However, the order could potentially be rescinded by a future president.

The White House document states that restoring the name 'Department of War' will sharpen the focus on national interest and signal America's readiness to wage war to secure its interests. This renaming is part of a broader effort to redefine the role and focus of the US military under the Trump administration.