A recent directive from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth signals a significant shift in military base naming conventions.
According to Fox News, Hegseth signed a memo on Monday ordering Fort Liberty in North Carolina to be renamed Fort Roland L. Bragg, marking a departure from its previous Confederate namesake.
The name change pays tribute to World War II hero Private First Class Roland L. Bragg, who earned the Silver Star and Purple Heart for his exceptional bravery during the Battle of the Bulge. This decision represents a significant shift from the base's original namesake, Confederate General Braxton Bragg, known for his slave ownership and battlefield losses during the Civil War.
World War II hero Roland Bragg receives military recognition
The installation's new namesake demonstrated remarkable courage under extreme circumstances during World War II. His heroic actions included commandeering an enemy ambulance to save a fellow soldier's life and driving 20 miles through dangerous territory to reach an Allied hospital in Belgium.
Hegseth announced the directive while aboard a U.S. Air Force C-17 before landing in Stuttgart, Germany. As stated by the Defense Secretary: "That's right. Bragg is back."
The memo emphasizes that this renaming acknowledges the valor and dedication of service members throughout history, particularly highlighting PFC Bragg's selfless service.
Previous name change reflected broader military reforms
The military installation had undergone its initial name change in 2023 as part of a comprehensive Department of Defense initiative. This reform emerged from the 2020 George Floyd protests, prompting the military to distance itself from Confederate symbolism.
The base, established in 1918, originally honored Confederate General Braxton Bragg from Warrenton, North Carolina. The general's legacy was marked by controversial aspects, including slave ownership and notable military defeats that contributed to the Confederate defeat.
During the previous renaming process, retired U.S. Army Brigadier General Ty Seidule explained that Fort Liberty was selected because liberty represented the highest American value.
Fort Bragg legacy extends beyond North Carolina
The installation maintains its position as one of the world's largest military bases. It serves as the home base for the prestigious 82nd Airborne Division and houses the United States Special Operations Command.
Several other military installations underwent similar name changes during the 2023 initiative. Fort Benning transformed into Fort Moore, honoring Vietnam War commander Lieutenant General Hal Moore. Fort Hood became Fort Cavazos, recognizing General Richard Edward Cavazos, a distinguished four-star general with service in both the Korean and Vietnam wars.
The Defense Department's directive emphasizes the installation's distinguished history while acknowledging the importance of representing values aligned with modern military service.
Defense Department charts new direction for base naming
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's directive represents a significant shift in military base naming policy, returning the Fort Bragg name while redefining its meaning through a new historical figure. The North Carolina installation will now honor World War II hero PFC Roland L. Bragg, whose actions during the Battle of the Bulge exemplified exceptional courage and sacrifice. This change maintains the base's connection to its storied past while aligning with contemporary military values and recognition of heroic service members.
