Potential Renaming of USNS Harvey Milk

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has reportedly instructed the Navy to reconsider the name of a refueling ship linked to a contentious gay rights figure. Named after the first openly gay activist in California, the USNS Harvey Milk might soon lose its name as a result of this directive.

Documents examined by Military.com indicate that this change is intended to align with the Navy’s priorities as set by the President and the Secretary of Defense, focusing on what they describe as a “warrior culture.”

Sean Parnell, a spokesperson for the Pentagon, expressed that “Secretary Hegseth is committed to ensuring that the names attached to all DOD installations and assets reflect the commander’s priorities, the history of our nation, and the spirit of the warrior.” He added that potential name alterations will be disclosed following an internal review.

The USNS Harvey Milk was first named during the latter part of the Obama administration back in August 2016. He had served as a naval officer and diving officer in the Navy from 1951 to 1955.

The naming decision drew considerable backlash, particularly due to allegations surrounding Milk’s past relationships, notably one involving a minor, which has drawn sharp criticism from groups like the American Family Association. Some critics labeled Milk a “homosexual predator,” referencing historical accounts of his relationships.

Milk’s legacy remains complex; he was assassinated in 1978, leaving a significant mark within the LGBTQ+ community, though his history is controversial.

Hegseth has actively sought to eliminate what he perceives as leftist policies within the Armed Services, particularly those surrounding LGBTQ+ initiatives and diversity efforts.