Pentagon Restores Fort Benning Name, Honors World War I Hero
Defense Secretary Hegseth reinstates Fort Benning's name, paying tribute to Cpl. Fred Benning instead of Confederate general Henry Benning.
Overview
The Pentagon has announced the renaming of Fort Moore back to Fort Benning, now in honor of Cpl. Fred G. Benning, a World War I veteran. This move comes after previous renamings aimed at erasing Confederate associations. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has stated that the reinstated name honors the military's commitment while reflecting the values exemplified by the distinguished soldier. Reaction has been mixed, with critics highlighting the emotional impact on those who had lobbied for the original change to Fort Moore, which commemorated Hal and Julia Moore's legacy.
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Analysis
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has reversed the renaming of Fort Moore back to Fort Benning, now honoring Cpl. Fred G. Benning, a World War I hero, instead of the Confederate general for whom it was originally named.
- The change reflects a commitment to restoring traditional names while acknowledging the valor of American service members, aligning with an effort to move away from names associated with the Confederacy.
- Critics of the renaming argue it disregards the legacy of Hal and Julia Moore, whose dedication and contributions to military families were significant and groundbreaking.
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CBS News·4M·FAQ
Fort Benning was renamed to Fort Moore in 2023 to honor Lt. Gen. Hal Moore and his wife Julia, as part of a broader effort to remove names associated with Confederate leaders from U.S. military bases.
Corporal Fred G. Benning is a World War I veteran who was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross. The base is now named after him to maintain historical continuity while distancing from Confederate ties, reflecting efforts to honor valor and service.
Reactions are mixed, with some expressing sadness and disappointment, particularly from those who supported the original change to Fort Moore. Critics argue that this decision erodes the legacy of service members like Hal and Julia Moore.
Yes, this renaming is part of a broader effort by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to restore original names to military bases, following the reversal of Fort Liberty back to Fort Bragg. Hegseth has indicated that more changes are forthcoming.
History
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