Trump Signs Executive Order to Reinstate War Division
On Friday, President Trump signed an executive order aimed at reinstating the war division as the Pentagon’s “secondary title,” according to White House officials who provided details to the Post on Thursday night.
The 79-year-old president has expressed that the older titles sound “stronger” and are “more appropriate” for top-level positions within the cabinet.
The order instructs Secretary of Defense Pete Hegses to put forth legislative and enforcement measures to make the “US War Bureau” officially recognized as part of the Department of Defense.
Additionally, Hegses will be able to use the title “Secretary of War” during official communications, public events, and in non-statistical documents.
All federal departments and agencies are now required to acknowledge and adjust to these new titles in their communications.
The War Bureau existed from 1789 until 1947, when congressional actions separated the Army and Air Force divisions, forming the existing naval divisions and national military agencies.
It’s worth noting that the Department of Defense was designated as such in 1949.
A fact sheet from the White House stated that, “The US military is the strongest and most deadly combat force in the world. The President believes that this sector should have a name that reflects its unparalleled power and preparedness to protect national interests.”
The White House indicated that this name change aims to project “strength and resolution,” supporting Trump’s approach of “peace by force.”
Last month, Trump mentioned his dissatisfaction with the current DOD name during a conversation in the Oval Office. He said, “‘Defense’ is too defensive. We want to be defensive, but we want to be offensive too.”
Concerning the name change, Trump expressed optimism, mentioning, “We’re just trying to do that, and I’m sure Congress will go along with us if that’s what’s needed.”
At least one member of Congress has committed to introducing a bill in support of the name change for the Department of Defense. Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah) stated on X last month, “I am drafting a bill to restore the Department of War to its original name, the only name that captures the full scope of America’s military capabilities.”
The White House noted that this executive order marks the 200th signed by Trump since he took office.
