WASHINGTON – The pentagon is set for a name change,reverting to the “Ministry of War” from its current designation as the “Ministry of Defense,” a move spearheaded by former President donald Trump. The shift, revealed in a decree published by the BBC, is motivated by a desire to project a more assertive military posture. According to the decree, the name “Ministry of War” conveys “a stronger message of readiness and determination” than “ministry of Defense,” which is perceived as emphasizing only defensive capabilities.
The name change is estimated to cost hundreds of millions of dollars due to the extensive revisions required for stationery and official documents across the Pentagon and military bases.
Historically, the department was known as the Ministry of war from American independence in 1789 untill 1947. Following World War II, the unification of the Army, Navy, and Air Force led to the adoption of “Ministry of Defense,” signaling a focus on war prevention.
Trump has publicly advocated for this change for some time, stating last month, “Defense is too defensive and we want to be defensive, but we also want to be offensive if necessary.” Secretary of Defense Lloyd Hegseeth echoed this sentiment, asserting the change “is not just about words. It’s about the warrior mentality.”
The move comes amidst scrutiny of Trump’s adherence to congressional authority. Last week, an appeals court ruled Trump improperly bypassed Congress in freezing aid funds and imposing tariffs. Legal experts also note that congressional authorization was likely required for a recent airstrike in the Caribbean.
The decision also follows Hegseeth’s previous actions, including restoring the original names to Fort Bragg and Fort Hood - previously named after Confederate generals – and naming a naval ship after Harvey Milk, a slain gay rights pioneer.