President Issues Executive Order to Restore “Department of War” Title

New York — In a striking symbolic move, the President has signed an executive order authorizing the United States Department of Defense to once again be recognized by its historic name: the Department of War.

The order, released today, invokes the legacy of the original Department of War, created in 1789 by President George Washington, which oversaw America’s early military victories and operations through World War II before being reorganized in 1947.

According to the President, reviving the name signals a return to the nation’s founding vision of strength, deterrence, and readiness.

“The name ‘Department of War,’ more than the current ‘Department of Defense,’ ensures peace through strength, as it demonstrates our ability and willingness to fight and win wars on behalf of our Nation at a moment’s notice,” the order states.

Secondary Titles Authorized

Under the directive, the Secretary of Defense may now also be addressed as the Secretary of War in official correspondence, public communications, and ceremonial contexts. The same applies to other senior officials, who may use designations such as Deputy Secretary of War or Under Secretary of War.

The order specifies that statutory references to the “Department of Defense” remain binding until changed by Congress, making the shift primarily symbolic for now.

However, the President instructed the Secretary of War to submit recommendations within 60 days on how to permanently rename the department through legislative action.

Historical Significance

The Department of War, alongside the Department of the Navy, was instrumental in guiding the nation through the War of 1812, World War I, and World War II. Advocates of the change argue that the historic title communicates American resolve more forcefully than the more defensive-sounding Department of Defense, adopted in 1949.

Practical Effects

While the order does not immediately alter legal authorities or obligations, all federal departments and agencies are directed to recognize and accommodate the use of the new secondary titles. The Department of War will also bear the costs associated with the publication of this executive order.