President Donald Trump said in two White House appearances on 25 Aug. that his administration intends to restore the Pentagon’s pre-1947 title, the “Department of War,” and signalled the change could be made “within the next week or so.” “Defense is too defensive,” he told reporters, adding that the earlier name “had a stronger sound” and coincided with U.S. victories in both world wars. Asked whether an act of Congress would be required, Trump replied, “We’re just going to do it,” but added he was “sure Congress will go along if we need that.” The Defense Department was known as the Department of War from 1789 until post-World War II legislation created today’s structure under the National Security Act of 1947 and its 1949 amendments. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth publicly endorsed the proposal, saying the rename would underline a renewed “warrior ethos.” “Maybe next time we’re here, my card will read ‘Department of War,’” Hegseth said during a cabinet meeting on 26 Aug. The administration has not detailed what legal steps, if any, it will take to formalise the change.