DEFSEC Pete Hegseth brings back Fort Bragg, ditches Fort Liberty

The U.S. Army base formerly known as Fort Liberty is set to bear a new name once again, reflecting a change meant to honor American heroism instead of Confederate associations.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has announced the renaming of the North Carolina military base to Fort Roland L. Bragg, honoring World War II hero Pfc. Roland L. Bragg, instead of its original Confederate namesake, Gen. Braxton Bragg, Fox News reported. 

Historical Context and Background

The installation was first established in 1918 and named Fort Bragg after Confederate Gen. Braxton Bragg. Over a century later, the name became a subject of debate following the social justice movements sparked by the 2020 George Floyd protests. These movements led to a broader initiative by the Department of Defense (DoD) to reassess and rename bases linked with Confederate history.

It was in 2023 that the fort was temporarily renamed Fort Liberty. This transition, as retired U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Ty Seidule remarked, was chosen because "liberty remains the greatest American value." However, this was not to be its final transition.

Secretary Hegseth's recent directive aims to enshrine the legacy of Pfc. Roland L. Bragg, a distinguished World War II soldier renowned for his acts of valor during the Battle of the Bulge. Pfc. Bragg's heroics, which included commandeering an enemy vehicle to save a comrade, underscore the new namesake's inspiring qualities.

Renaming In Step with Broader Effort

This name change aligns with similar renaming efforts across the United States military. Other installations have undergone transformations; for instance, Fort Benning took on the new name Fort Moore to honor Lt. Gen. Hal Moore, while Fort Hood was renamed Fort Cavazos in recognition of Gen. Richard Edward Cavazos.

The narrative of renaming these bases stresses not just the shedding of past affiliations but also a celebration and recognition of valor. The memo underscoring the change to Fort Roland L. Bragg emphasizes honoring "the personal courage and selfless service of all those who have trained to fight and win our nation's wars."

Throughout this period of transformation, the U.S. military's commitment to its principles of inclusivity and honor stands at the forefront. These name changes effectively reflect a modern reassessment of values at installations where service members dedicate their lives to defending the nation.

Acknowledging Pfc. Roland L. Bragg's Legacy

Pfc. Roland L. Bragg's valor is epitomized through his remarkable actions during World War II. The soldier's bravery at the Battle of the Bulge was characterized by a significant act of heroism where he risked his life under fire to save a wounded fellow soldier.

In recognition of his courage, Pfc. Bragg was awarded not only the Silver Star but also the Purple Heart. These honors solidify his standing as a person whose actions embody the essence of the military values upon which Fort Roland L. Bragg will now build its legacy.

The decision to name the base after Pfc. Bragg, heralded by the signed memo during a flight on a U.S. Air Force C-17, signifies a broader policy shift aimed at aligning iconic military landmarks with figures of shared American virtue.

Impact on the Fort and Beyond

Home to the 82nd Airborne Division, the base is among the largest military installations globally, and its new name will resonate through the significant military community stationed there. The change not only reinforces a legacy of heroism but also marks a point of reflection for current and future service members.

The renaming's implications extend far beyond mere symbolism—they offer a renewed connection to the service's ongoing fight for freedom and democracy. As Secretary Hegseth aptly stated, "That's right. Bragg is back," acknowledging the honored legacy now tied to these hallowed grounds.

The name Fort Roland L. Bragg ensures that its heritage is accessible to all, inspiring a new generation of soldiers to emulate the bravery of their forbears while upholding the core values represented by Roland L. Bragg's exemplary service.

The Future of Military Installations Renaming

As the U.S. Armed Forces continue this journey of historical reckonings, installations like Fort Roland L. Bragg serve as benchmarks of progress. With a firm nod to the past, while addressing current social dynamics, these renaming efforts underscore institutional growth.

The military's decision aligns with broader societal shifts toward celebrating unity and resisting oppressive histories. It represents both a tribute to heroes closer to the present-day military ethos and a pledge to the foundational values that underpin American democracy.

Brig. Gen. Seidule's words resonate with ongoing changes, reminding all that liberty—and ultimately, honor—remain cornerstones of American identity. Fort Roland L. Bragg is poised to reflect these principles as its storied legacy continues to evolve.