Donald Trump To Sign Executive Order To Change Name Of Pentagon
Donald Trump is set to reintroduce the historical title “Department of War” as an official secondary name for the Department of Defense. The change was enacted through a new executive order signed on September 5, 2025.
This move allows the department to be referred to by its former name in formal documents, military ceremonies, and federal functions. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth will also be permitted to use the title “Secretary of War” in his official capacity.
The original Department of War was renamed the Department of Defense in 1949. This restructuring aimed to emphasize peacekeeping and strategic defense following World War II and at the start of the Cold War.
The executive order does not permanently rename the department, as that would require Congressional approval. Instead, it permits the dual use of both titles and instructs the Pentagon to begin administrative integration of the new branding.
The rebranding is expected to cost tens of millions of dollars. It includes updating signage, communications, and documentation across military installations worldwide.
The decision has drawn criticism from Democratic lawmakers and former military officials. They argue the change is unnecessary, expensive, and risks projecting a more aggressive U.S. military posture internationally.
This is the latest in a series of controversial rebranding efforts by the Trump administration. The White House maintains the shift honors tradition and reflects the mission of the U.S. Armed Forces more accurately.
