Donald Trump is making waves again with a new executive order focused on the Pentagon. After returning to the Oval Office this year, Trump quickly moved to change the name of the Department of Defense to the Department of War, an idea not seen in decades. Reports from the BBC explain that the goal is to have a stronger, more powerful-sounding name. “Department of Defense” makes the U.S. seem like it’s just waiting for attacks, while “Department of War” suggests a more aggressive stance. The order directs Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to find legal ways to make this permanent.
Hegseth appeared on Fox News supporting the change, pointing out that the U.S. won World Wars I and II when the military ran under the War Department’s name. He said the military is about offense as well as defense and wants to restore a “warrior spirit.” This name change is meant to show other countries that the U.S. is ready to strike, not just defend.
However, many on social media did not agree. Some called the idea ridiculous and warned it would embarrass the United States internationally. Others questioned the purpose, and some criticized the cost of the rebranding. The reaction even reminded people of an earlier Trump move when his team tried to rename the Gulf of Mexico the “Gulf of America,” an idea that did not catch on worldwide. Historically, the U.S. did have a Department of War until 1947, when it was renamed the Department of Defense, but Trump believes the original name symbolized America’s proud record of victories. Whether you find this bold or silly, it’s definitely a typical Trump move.
