President Donald Trump made a significant announcement on June 10, 2025, during a speech at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, revealing the restoration of names for seven Army bases. These bases, once named after Confederate leaders, will now honor nine highly decorated U.S. Army soldiers who share the same names as the original honorees.
Following Trump’s speech, the Army swiftly confirmed the name changes, aligning with previous reversion orders by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Notably, Fort Liberty and Fort Moore were reverted to their original names of Fort Bragg and Fort Benning, now honoring lesser-known soldiers from World War I and World War II.
The newly selected soldiers to be honored at these bases include recipients of prestigious awards such as the Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross, and the Silver Star. Each base now pays tribute to remarkable individuals who made significant contributions to various conflicts throughout history.
For instance, Fort Gordon in Georgia, previously known as Fort Eisenhower, will now honor Master Sgt. Gary I. Gordon, a celebrated Delta Force soldier recognized for his valor during the Battle of Mogadishu in 1993. Similarly, Fort Pickett in Virginia, formerly Fort Barfoot, will pay tribute to 1st Lt. Vernon W. Pickett, a Distinguished Service Cross recipient known for his bravery in World War II.
Another notable change includes Fort Hood in Texas, previously Fort Cavazos, now named after Col. Robert B. Hood, a distinguished World War I soldier honored with the Distinguished Service Cross for his courageous actions in France. Furthermore, Fort Lee in Virginia, previously Fort Gregg-Adams, will now be named after Pvt. Fitz Lee, a Medal of Honor recipient recognized for his heroism during the Spanish-American War.
Additionally, Fort Polk in Louisiana, formerly Fort Johnson, will now honor Gen. James H. Polk, a Silver Star recipient known for his gallantry as the commanding officer of the 3rd Cavalry Group during World War II. Fort Rucker in Alabama, previously Fort Novosel, continues to honor Capt. Edward W. Rucker, a Distinguished Service Cross recipient from World War I, reflecting the base’s aviation heritage.
Lastly, Fort A.P. Hill in Virginia, previously Fort Walker, will now pay homage to three Civil War Medal of Honor recipients: Lt. Col. Edward Hill, 1st Sgt. Robert A. Pinn, and Pvt. Bruce Anderson, recognizing their valor in various battles.
These changes mark a significant shift in the historical legacy of these Army bases, commemorating the bravery and sacrifices of notable soldiers from different eras. The renaming of these bases signifies a broader trend of reevaluating historical commemorations and honoring individuals who exemplify the values of courage, service, and dedication.
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