President Trump suggested renaming the Department of Defense back to the Department of War, believing the current name is too passive. He cited the U.S.'s past victories under the "Department of War" name. Trump initially stated the change would happen soon, later suggesting it depended on Defense Secretary Hegseth's opinion and implied Congress's approval wasn't necessary. The name change from "War" to "Defense" occurred after World War II to streamline military branches and reduce costs, a move initiated by President Truman in 1947.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.