President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Friday to rebrand the Department of Defense as the Department of War, marking a symbolic return to the agency’s historical name and signaling a shift toward a more aggressive military posture. The move, implemented through an executive order that designates ‘Department of War’ as a secondary title, allows for immediate changes without congressional approval, though a permanent rename would require legislation.
Trump announced the order in the Oval Office, criticizing the 1947 name change to Defense as part of a ‘woke’ mentality that he believes has weakened the United States. ‘We won the first world war, we won the second world war, and then we decided to go woke and changed the name,’ Trump said, arguing that the original name better reflects military victories and honestly represents the department’s role.
The administration has already begun enacting changes, with the Pentagon’s official website now redirecting from defense.gov to war.gov. Signs outside the Secretary of Defense’s office were swiftly replaced to read ‘Secretary of War,’ and internal communications are adopting the new terminology, as reported by multiple news outlets.
This rebranding comes amid recent military actions, including a US navy airstrike that killed 11 people on a vessel linked to a Venezuelan drug cartel in international waters. The strike has raised questions about its legality under international law and adds context to Trump’s emphasis on a more offensive strategy.
Trump’s order circumvents the need for immediate congressional action by using a secondary title, but permanent renaming would require bills passed by both houses. Republican lawmakers Greg Steube and Mike Lee have introduced legislation to formalize the change, indicating party support for the move.
The move contrasts with Trump’s repeated claims of being an ‘anti-war president’ who aims to end conflicts, yet he asserts that focusing on strength and trade has improved America’s global position. Critics argue that the name change is largely symbolic and may not alter the department’s functions, while supporters see it as a reaffirmation of American military prowess.
Legal experts and analysts note that the rebranding could have diplomatic implications and affect public perception, potentially escalating tensions or reinforcing a narrative of aggression. The department’s core operations remain unchanged, but the symbolism is intended to influence military culture and policy discussions.
Looking ahead, the administration plans to fully integrate the secondary title across Pentagon operations, while Congress may debate the proposed legislation. The event highlights the ongoing interplay between military strategy and political messaging in the current administration, with further developments expected as implementation proceeds.