Fort Bragg Rebirth: A New Name Honors Heroism

On Monday, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth made a significant announcement regarding the future of Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He directed the U.S. Army to change the name of Fort Liberty back to Fort Bragg, but with a notable twist.

Hegseth issued the directive in a memo while aboard a U.S. Air Force C-17 en route to Stuttgart, Germany. In a historic move, he ordered the base to be renamed Fort Roland L. Bragg, honoring a hero rather than the previous Confederate general.

“That’s right. Bragg is back,” Hegseth stated proudly after signing the memo.

A Change Driven by History

The name change reflects a broader initiative by the Department of Defense, which began in response to the social upheaval triggered by the 2020 George Floyd protests. The Pentagon embarked on a mission to reassess and rename military installations linked to Confederate figures.

Originally named in 1918 after General Braxton Bragg, a Confederate officer from North Carolina, the fort’s previous namesake was known for his role in losing crucial battles during the Civil War and for having owned slaves.

A Tribute to Valor

The new designation, Fort Roland L. Bragg, pays tribute to Pfc. Roland L. Bragg, a distinguished World War II soldier recognized for exceptional bravery during the Battle of the Bulge. His received honors include the Silver Star and Purple Heart, distinguishing him among heroes of his time.

The memo highlights Pfc. Bragg’s remarkable act of heroism when, under dire conditions and facing intense enemy fire, he commandeered an enemy ambulance. He drove 20 miles to ensure a wounded comrade received medical attention at an allied hospital in Belgium.

Recognizing Sacrifice and Service

This name change not only honors the legacy of Pfc. Roland L. Bragg but also reflects a commitment to celebrating the courage of all service members who have trained and fought for the nation. The directive emphasizes that this change honors personal valor and selfless service.

Moreover, Fort Bragg is noteworthy as one of the world’s largest military installations. It houses the Army’s esteemed 82nd Airborne Division and the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM).

Broader Movement within the Army

The renaming of Fort Bragg is part of a larger rebranding effort across several Army posts in the United States. For instance, Fort Benning, the home of the Army’s infantry school, has been renamed Fort Moore, in memory of the late Lt. Gen. Hal Moore, a commander during the Vietnam War. Likewise, Fort Hood in Texas has become Fort Cavazos, named for Gen. Richard Edward Cavazos, who served in both the Korean and Vietnam Wars.

These renaming efforts are not simply a matter of changing signs. They represent a meaningful shift towards honoring values that resonate with many in today’s society. Retired U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Ty Seidule remarked during a commission meeting that Fort Liberty was chosen as the new name at that time because it embodies the ultimate American value of liberty.

Embracing New Narratives

As the Army continues to embrace new narratives that reflect modern values, the decision to revert Fort Liberty back to Fort Bragg—while shifting the focus to a heroic individual—marks an intentional effort to redefine what the base represents. This renaming aligns with a historical acknowledgment and the appreciation of service members who have journeyed through adversity.

Transitioning the focus from a Confederate general to a World War II hero illustrates the military’s commitment to foster a more inclusive and positive representation of its history. This not only honors the sacrifices made by soldiers like Pfc. Roland L. Bragg but also ensures that the fort’s legacy aligns more closely with contemporary American ideals.

A Reflection of Values

The decision to rename Fort Bragg underscores a deeper reflection on how the military honors its past while being responsive to the values of the present and future. It sends a strong message regarding the importance of recognizing the contributions of all soldiers, particularly those who demonstrated extraordinary bravery.

This shift may pave the way for additional reforms across military institutions, inspiring others to re-evaluate the legacies we uphold. As the military adapts to changing social expectations, the hope is for these transformations to resonate within the ranks and foster a sense of unity grounded in shared values.

Looking Ahead

The renaming of Fort Bragg does not simply change a sign in front of an installation; it symbolizes a movement towards a more inclusive approach to military history. As the U.S. Army undertakes these vital changes, it continues to evolve in a manner that respects the past while looking forward to a more hopeful future.