In a significant shift, President Donald Trump signed an executive order in September 2025, renaming the Department of Defense to the ‘Department of War.’ This change marks a return to the original title established during the Revolutionary War. Although such a rebranding typically requires Congressional approval, Trump emphasized the need for a name that reflects military strength and preparedness as vital to U.S. national security.
The executive order stated, “The Founders chose this name to signal our strength and resolve to the world.” The name “Department of War,” Trump argued, conveys a commitment to “peace through strength,” underscoring the nation’s readiness to engage in military conflict if necessary. This move has reignited discussions about the historical context and implications of renaming defense agencies.
Historical Context of the Department’s Naming
The transition from the Department of War to the Department of Defense originated during a comprehensive reorganization of the U.S. military following World War II. As the Cold War began to take shape, President Harry Truman articulated the need for a revamped military establishment. In December 1945, he stated, “I recommend that Congress adopt legislation combining the War and Navy Departments into one single Department of National Defense.” This reorganization aimed at enhancing efficiency and ensuring civilian control over the military.
The National Security Act of 1947 established the National Military Establishment, which separated the U.S. Air Force from the Army and created the role of Secretary of Defense. This position was meant to oversee the various military branches and ensure coordinated responses to national security threats. Initially, the Secretary was required to be a civilian or have retired from military service for at least ten years, a provision later adjusted to seven years.
The 1947 legislation also formed the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Central Intelligence Agency, enhancing the executive branch’s capacity to manage military and intelligence operations effectively. Two years later, the National Military Establishment was officially renamed the Department of Defense.
Implications of the Rebranding
The renaming from the Department of War to the Department of Defense was partly an effort to mitigate the negative connotations associated with the word “war.” This strategic rebranding aimed to convey a message of peace while still preparing for potential military conflicts. Some observers noted that the acronym for the National Military Establishment, when pronounced, sounded too similar to “enemy,” necessitating a more favorable designation.
The original Department of War was established on August 7, 1789, during President George Washington’s administration. Its creation aimed to replace the Board of War and Ordnance formed during the American Revolution. Over the years, the Department of War also encompassed the newly formed U.S. Navy, which became a separate cabinet post in 1798.
The National Security Act of 1947 effectively delineated the responsibilities of the Army and the newly established Air Force, placing all under the Secretary of Defense’s authority. Truman’s revisions were described as a push for “unification” to enhance efficiency and coordination among military branches. Nevertheless, this restructuring led to increased inter-service rivalry, particularly between the Air Force and Navy regarding control over nuclear capabilities during the Cold War.
The implications of Trump’s executive order extend beyond nomenclature. It reflects a broader discourse on military strategy and national identity, highlighting the ongoing evolution of U.S. military policy. As the nation grapples with its role on the global stage, the decision to revert to the Department of War serves as a reminder of the enduring complexities associated with military nomenclature and its impact on public perception.
This article originally appeared in History of War magazine issue 153. For further details, visit the magazine’s official site.
