Key Takeaways:

• President Donald Trump will sign an order to rename the Department of Defense back to the Department of War.
• He argues that “defense” sounds passive and “war” has a stronger ring.
• Changing the name likely needs a law from Congress, which Republicans control.
• The Department of Defense was called the Department of War from 1789 to 1947.

President Donald Trump plans to sign an executive order on Friday to turn the Department of Defense back into the Department of War. He says the word defense sounds weak and does not cover offense. His goal is a stronger name that he believes will boost military spirit.

Why Change the Department of Defense Name?

Trump has long said that “defense” in the name does not include offense. He noted that the United States won World War I and World War II under the old name. Furthermore, he asked people to vote on changing it back. He said, “If you want to change it back to what it was, that’s okay with me.” His supporters praise the move as bold. However, critics call it a stunt.

How Will the Renaming Process Work?

First, Trump will sign an executive order. This step is fast and can take effect right away. Yet, renaming a federal agency usually requires a new law from Congress. Trump’s team wants to avoid a lengthy vote. Meanwhile, Republicans hold the House and Senate. Thus, they could pass a bill if they choose. Still, the White House is eyeing shortcuts.

Political and Legal Hurdles

Renaming a major agency involves plenty of rules. Even though Republicans control Congress, lawmakers must draft, debate, and pass a bill. Then, the president must approve it. Otherwise, an executive order alone may not stick in courts. Moreover, legal experts warn of challenges. Opponents could sue, arguing that the order oversteps authority. In addition, some say it will distract from other defense matters.

History of the Department of Defense

The Department of Defense was created in 1949. Before that, the United States had a Department of War from 1789 to 1947. In 1947, Congress merged the War Department and the Navy Department into the National Military Establishment. Two years later, lawmakers renamed it the Department of Defense. They aimed to improve coordination among the Army, Navy, and newly formed Air Force. Since then, the Department of Defense has overseen American military operations around the globe.

Why the Name Change Matters

Names carry power. A clear label can shape how people think about a group. Trump believes that a return to “Department of War” will bring more confidence. He argues it honors the nation’s victories in major conflicts. However, some veterans and experts worry the new name may seem aggressive. They fear it could signal that the U.S. seeks war rather than peace.

What Comes Next?

After Friday’s executive order, the White House will push Congress for quick approval. They might attach the name change to a larger defense bill to speed it through. At the same time, departments will start updating letterheads, websites, and uniforms. That work could cost millions of dollars. Meanwhile, lawmakers will debate whether the change is worth the expense.

Despite the hurdles, Trump’s move shows his focus on symbolism. He often uses strong language to rally supporters. Furthermore, he enjoys reshaping institutions to fit his style. Whether the Department of Defense becomes the Department of War again will depend on politics in the weeks ahead. For now, the name change remains a high-profile debate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens to the Department of Defense after the order?

The executive order can start the renaming process but may not finalize it. Congress likely needs to pass a law to make the change permanent.

Will the Department of War cost more money?

Yes. Updating signs, documents, and websites could cost millions. The exact price will depend on the scope of updates.

Can Congress block the name change?

Yes. Even with Republicans in charge, lawmakers can refuse to pass a bill. They might vote down the change if they see bigger issues to handle.

When did the Department of Defense become its current name?

In 1949, Congress renamed the National Military Establishment to the Department of Defense. Before that, it was the Department of War from 1789 to 1947.