U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) has introduced legislation aiming to change the name of the United States Department of Defense back to its original title, the Department of War. The bill, named the Department of War Restoration Act, was cosponsored by Senator Rick Scott (R-FL), with Representative Greg Steube (R-FL) introducing a similar measure in the House.
“For the first 150 years of our military’s history, Americans defeated their enemies and protected their homeland under the War Department,” said Senator Mike Lee. “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.”
Representative Steube commented on the legacy associated with the department’s original name. “From 1789 until the end of World War II, the United States military fought under the banner of the Department of War,” said Rep. Steube. “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.”
Senator Rick Scott stated his support for reflecting what he described as a more accurate depiction of U.S. military capabilities. “The United States military is not a purely defensive force. We are the most lethal fighting force on the face of the planet – and a restoration of the name Department of War reflects their true capabilities to win wars, not just respond when prodded. President Trump has made clear that our nation will pursue Peace Through Strength; we will always protect our freedoms.”
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