Rumors have surfaced that Army officials are contemplating reverting the name of Fort Liberty in North Carolina to its previous designation, Fort Bragg, as revealed by sources privy to the ongoing discussions. The proposed change stems from a larger effort initiated in 2021 by Congress, which established a commission with the explicit aim of renaming Department of Defense properties that had been named after prominent figures from the Confederate era. Despite then-President Donald Trump’s veto of the bill, citing opposition to altering established names, Congress exercised its authority to override the veto, thereby mandating the implementation of these changes by law.
In a turn of events in 2022, the aforementioned commission put forth recommendations to rename nine Army installations, including the historically significant Fort Bragg. Originally christened in 1918 in honor of General Braxton Bragg, a North Carolina native and Confederate leader known for his role in the Mexican-American War, the base was subsequently rebranded as Fort Liberty in June 2023.
During a campaign rally held in Fayetteville, North Carolina, in October of an unspecified year, former President Trump made a pledge to revert the base’s name back to Fort Bragg, highlighting its pivotal role in pivotal historical conflicts. Trump’s assertion was met with enthusiasm from supporters, who echoed his sentiment that preserving established names carries symbolic weight and historical significance.
In a separate development, former Fox News host Pete Hegseth criticized the ongoing name changes, labeling them as a “sham” and “garbage.” Hegseth’s stance drew attention when, on his inaugural day as secretary of defense, he referred to Fort Liberty as Fort Bragg, sparking speculation about potential efforts to reverse the recent name alteration.
Although the Army has refrained from providing direct comments on the matter, sources familiar with the discussions have hinted at potential legal strategies to navigate the constraints imposed by laws prohibiting the use of Confederate-related monikers. One proposed solution involves christening the base after another distinguished soldier named Bragg, such as Private First Class Roland Bragg, recognized for his valor and service during World War II.
The renaming commission purportedly deliberated on alternative names, with figures like Edward S. Bragg, a Union Army officer and esteemed diplomat, emerging as potential contenders for the base’s new appellation. Despite estimates suggesting a hefty price tag exceeding $6 million for the renaming process, Army officials have asserted that the actual cost is likely to be considerably lower. Additional expenses were incurred by the state of North Carolina to update highway and road signage, as confirmed by the North Carolina Department of Transportation.
Fort Liberty boasts a rich legacy as the headquarters of the esteemed 82nd Airborne Division, known for its rapid deployment capabilities in times of crisis, earning the moniker “All American.” The base also houses the U.S. Army Special Operations Command, Joint Special Operations Command, XVIII Airborne Corps, and various other vital units.
