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Fort Bragg Returns: Army Renames North Carolina Base to Honor World War II Veteran
In a historic ceremony filled with cannon fire and musical tributes, Fort Bragg in North Carolina has officially reclaimed its previous name. This change honors a World War II hero rather than the controversial figure of a Confederate general. The transformation back to Fort Bragg marks a significant event in military history.
Under the leadership of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, the Army conducted a rededication ceremony at the sprawling base, located just outside Fayetteville, which is home to approximately 260,000 personnel. The renaming event symbolizes a reversal of a prior decision to honor Roland L. Bragg instead of controversial Confederate General Braxton Bragg, a figure whose legacy posed challenges to modern-day military values.
A Tribute to a Hero
The event was attended by descendants of Private First Class Roland L. Bragg, who passed away in 1999. Lieutenant General Gregory Anderson delivered a heartfelt speech, recounting the bravery and unwavering service of the late veteran during the war. He emphasized that the base is not only a military installation but also a community hub for thousands of soldiers and their families.
“Today, we gather at one of the largest installations in our Army,” stated Anderson, commanding officer of the 18th Airborne Corps. The base spans 164,000 acres and supports over 48,000 soldiers, 80,000 families, and thousands of Department of Defense civilians, showcasing its critical role in national defense.
Making Sense of Military Heritage
General Anderson highlighted that Fort Bragg represents more than just a military site. “It is a premier force projection platform,” he explained, defining the base as vital to the Army’s ability to deploy rapidly in times of conflict. Fort Bragg facilitates responses to crises through its culture of toughness and leadership.
Adding a personal touch, Bragg’s granddaughter shared moving stories about her grandfather, illustrating his humility and dedication to family. She recalled how he made pancakes in creative shapes for his grandchildren, displaying the softer side of a man known for his extraordinary military feats.
During World War II, Roland Bragg was captured by German forces in 1943. Remarkably, he persuaded a Nazi officer to release him and his fellow prisoners, leveraging their shared background in Freemasonry as a bargaining chip. Afterward, he commandeered an enemy ambulance, navigating difficult terrain to return to friendly lines. His bravery saved many lives, although he only learned later that several fellow soldiers survived despite the odds.
Redefining the Base’s Identity
Fort Bragg underwent a significant name change to Fort Liberty for approximately four years as part of a broader initiative to eradicate Confederate symbols and names from military installations. The decision was driven by the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act, which established a commission dedicated to reviewing and renaming bases associated with Confederate figures.
Representatives in Congress, including North Carolina’s Rep. Richard Hudson, emphasized the importance of community involvement in the renaming process. Hudson supported the removal of Braxton Bragg’s name but insisted that local input should have played a more significant role in the decision.
In a statement to Fox News Digital, Hudson expressed his gratitude for the new name, which honors not only Roland Bragg but the many soldiers who have served at Fort Bragg over the years. He emphasized that the name represents an elite force, known for their readiness and capability in military operations.
Looking Ahead: Other Base Renaming Efforts
The recent renaming of Fort Bragg is part of a trend in which military bases are renaming to reflect more inclusive and respectful commemorations. Fort Moore in Georgia is set to follow suit, with plans to rename the installation in honor of a World War I veteran, continuing this initiative towards honoring service members who embody the values of bravery and dedication.
Previously renamed installations include Fort A.P. Hill, which was renamed Fort Gregg-Adams, and Fort Hood, now Fort Cavazos. The Pentagon is examining further name changes to ensure they resonate positively with contemporary military and societal values.
A New Chapter for Military Installations
As military leadership shifts, perspectives on base names continue to evolve. Secretary Hegseth remarked on his commitment to restoring Fort Bragg’s original name, asserting that it had never truly been “Fort Liberty.” This assertion is part of a broader discussion regarding military heritage and the future identity of installations across the country.
In summary, the return of the name Fort Bragg reflects a renewed focus on honoring individuals whose actions resonate deeply within military history. The ceremony not only honored Private First Class Roland Bragg but also served as a reminder of the ongoing evolution of military traditions and the significance of community values in shaping those traditions.
