Order permits secondary Department of War names in federal communications

The President authorizes the Defense Secretary to use “Secretary of War” as an additional title. The title may be used in official correspondence, public communications, ceremonial events, and other non-statutory executive-branch documents. The title is secondary and does not replace the legal title set by statute. Use must not create confusion about legal, statutory, or international duties.

The Defense Department and federal agencies must recognize and accommodate the authorized secondary titles in communications. The permission covers the Department of Defense, the Office of the Secretary of Defense, and appropriate subordinate officials, including titles such as Deputy Secretary of War. The titles may be used only in the listed non-statutory settings. Statutory references to the Department of Defense and its officials remain controlling until Congress changes the law. Use must not create confusion about legal, statutory, or international duties.

The Secretary must notify the President about offices using the secondary name and recommend legislative and executive steps for a permanent renaming. The notification covers offices, agencies, components, and commands that begin using a secondary Department of War designation. The recommendation must identify proposed legislative and executive actions. The order does not itself permanently change the department’s statutory name. Implementation must follow applicable law and depend on available funding. The notification is due within 30 days of September 5, 2025. The recommendation is due within 60 days of September 5, 2025.