Gofrixty [05 September 2025] –“Today, I will rename the Pentagon, the Department of War,” said President Donald Trump. He instructed Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to begin using his title of Secretary of War at official events. The new label sends a “clear and strong message” about America’s military capability, Trump said.
Trump signed an executive order directing the Pentagon to use the old name in ceremonial activities, and in other military publications and government communications. He added that the military should curb the use of terms that undermined the perception of the force. He said that the word “defense” sounded too soft for a country that needed to project toughness.
Hegseth welcomed the order. He said “Secretary of War” is a title that “embodies pride, history and courage.” He vowed to run the Pentagon with what he called “clarity of mission” and “directness of purpose.”
Critics attacked the plan. Lawmakers in both parties warned that the rebranding would cost millions of dollars to update signage, letterhead and the like around the world. They said that Trump should concentrate on military preparedness, not catchphrases. And some historians cautioned that the name “Department of War” might evoke an image of perpetual conflict.
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Congress has authority legislatively to change the name of federal departments. Trump acknowledged that reality, but he said he would pressure lawmakers to agree to the change. Until that time, the Pentagon will refer to itself as the “Department of War” in executive branch functions while maintaining “the legal name Department of Defense.”
The United States began using the name “Department of War” in 1789. Leaders ditched it in 1947 when they restructured the military and created the Department of Defense in 1949. The restoration of the old name is a sign that America “stands ready for victory in any conflict that might come her way,” Mr. Trump said.
The decision has already ignited heated controversy. It is hailed by supporters as a bold stride toward strength. Critics describe it as wasteful and divisive. But Trump is nowhere near backing down. He is adamant that words count and he plans to stamp the Pentagon with the language of strength.
