U.S. President Donald Trump issued an executive order reintroducing the longstanding name “Department of War” alongside the current Department of Defense, as part of a broader initiative to project military strength and resolve.
The new designation will function as a secondary title for use in government communications, ceremonial events, and official branding—although only Congress can legally authorize a permanent name change.
Trump defended the change as a return to historical symbolism. “It was the name when we won World War I, World War II. We won everything,” he declared, suggesting that “Defense” has become too “woke” and passive.
The executive order also authorizes the use of titles such as “Secretary of War” and has already prompted updates to the Pentagon’s website, signage, and stationery—even before final Congressional approval.
