Senators Rick Scott and Mike Lee have introduced legislation to change the name of the Department of Defense back to its original title, the Department of War. The move comes as President Trump takes executive action on the matter. Congressman Greg Steube has also put forward companion legislation in the House of Representatives.
Senator Rick Scott stated, “The United States military is not a purely defensive force. We are the most lethal fighting force on the face of the planet — ready to defeat any enemy when called upon. Restoring the name to Department of War reflects our true purpose: to dominate wars, not merely respond after being provoked. President Trump has made it clear that our nation will pursue Peace Through Strength — and we will always stand ready to defend our freedoms.”
Senator Mike Lee said, “For the first 150 years of our military’s history, Americans defeated their enemies and protected their homeland under the War Department. I’m proud to introduce the Department of War Restoration Act to make President Trump’s return to tradition permanent in federal law. It should always be clear to anyone who would harm our people: Americans don’t just play defense.”
Congressman Greg Steube added, “From 1789 until the end of World War II, the United States military fought under the banner of the Department of War. Thanks to their courage and sacrifice, the standard of excellence was established for all servicemembers who followed in their footsteps. It is only fitting that we pay tribute to their eternal example and renowned commitment to lethality by restoring the name of the ‘Department of War’ to our Armed Forces.”
The proposed change seeks a return to historical tradition; prior to 1947, what is now known as the Department of Defense was originally called the Department of War.
