RESTORING THE DEPARTMENT OF WAR: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed a significant Executive Order aimed at restoring the historic name “Department of War” as a secondary title for the Department of Defense. This notable action marks the 200th Executive Order the President has signed since he took office. The Executive Order authorizes the Secretary of Defense and officials within the Department of Defense to utilize secondary titles such as “Secretary of War,” “Department of War,” and “Deputy Secretary of War” in various contexts, including official correspondence, public communications, ceremonial events, and non-statutory documents within the executive branch.
The Order also mandates that all executive departments and agencies recognize and incorporate these secondary titles in both internal and external communications. Furthermore, it instructs the Secretary of War to propose necessary actions—both legislative and executive—to permanently rename the U.S. Department of Defense to the U.S. Department of War.
The United States military is renowned as the strongest and most lethal fighting force globally, and President Trump believes that this critical department should bear a name that reflects its unparalleled power and readiness to safeguard national interests. The original Department of War, established in 1789, played a pivotal role in leading the U.S. to victory in significant conflicts such as the War of 1812, World War I, and World War II, instilling confidence in America’s military capabilities.
In his First Annual Address to Congress on January 8, 1790, President George Washington emphasized, “To be prepared for war is one of the most effective means of preserving peace.” The founding fathers understood that demonstrating strength was the best strategy to ensure it would seldom be needed. The name “Department of War” is intended to convey a more robust message of readiness and resolve, contrasting with the current title, “Department of Defense,” which may imply a focus solely on defensive strategies. Restoring the name “Department of War” aims to refine the Department’s focus on national interests and signal to adversaries that America is prepared to engage in conflict to protect its interests.
The American electorate chose President Trump to reinstate an America First approach, emphasizing peace through strength and restoring respect for the United States on the global stage. In his inaugural week, President Trump signed an Executive Order prioritizing readiness and lethality within the armed forces. His administration has consistently highlighted the importance of reviving national pride in America’s military heritage, especially as the Nation approaches its 250th birthday.
To commemorate the Army’s 250th birthday, President Trump organized a military parade in Washington, D.C., showcasing America's military might and celebrating its rich legacy of valor and victory. Under his leadership, the U.S. military executed a decisive strike against Iran’s nuclear capabilities, underscoring America’s unparalleled military strength and effectively deterring further aggression.
Recruitment levels are now at their highest in decades, revitalizing the armed forces with a new generation of dedicated warriors committed to defending America’s interests. This renewed focus on military readiness and historical acknowledgment is a testament to President Trump’s ongoing efforts to enhance the United States' stature as a formidable global power.
