🗞️ President Trump Proposes Renaming Pentagon to Historic “Department of War”

President Donald Trump has announced his intention to revert the name of the Department of Defense back to its original title, the Department of War, a name it held until 1949. The proposal is part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to reshape the image and mission of the U.S. military.

Speaking from the Oval Office earlier this week, Trump expressed dissatisfaction with the current name, saying, “It used to be called the ‘Department of War’ — and it had a stronger sound. We won World War I. We won World War II. We won everything. Now we have a ‘Department of Defense’ — we’re defenders”.

Trump was joined by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Vice President JD Vance, and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem during the announcement. Hegseth responded to Trump’s remarks by saying, “It’s coming soon, sir,” signaling that the administration is actively working on the change.

The Department of War was established in 1789 and oversaw the U.S. military until it was reorganized under President Harry Truman following World War II. The name was changed to the Department of Defense in 1949 to reflect a more unified and strategic approach to national security.

Utah Senator Mike Lee has already begun drafting legislation to support the name change, stating that “the only name that captures the full range of America’s military capabilities” is the Department of War. While a formal renaming would likely require congressional approval, Trump indicated he may proceed without it: “We’re just going to do it,” he told reporters1.

The move has sparked debate among lawmakers and military analysts. Supporters argue that the name “Department of War” better reflects the offensive capabilities and historical victories of the U.S. military. Critics, however, warn that such a change could signal a shift in foreign policy tone and undermine diplomatic efforts.

As the administration pushes forward, the Pentagon may soon bear the name it held during America’s most decisive military victories. Whether Congress will support the change remains to be seen.