EC Georgia News

Fort Gordon in Georgia has officially been renamed Fort Eisenhower, marking the final step in the Army's initiative to remove Confederate namesakes from military installations. The renaming ceremony took place as part of the Army's efforts to promote inclusivity and honor figures who have made significant contributions to the nation.

Formerly known as Fort Gordon, the installation was named after Confederate Gen. John Brown Gordon in 1941. However, it has now been renamed in tribute to former President Dwight D. Eisenhower, a distinguished five-star Army general who played a crucial role in defeating Nazi Germany during World War II.

Stars and Stripes reported that Army Maj. Gen. Paul Stanton stated: "We’re transitioning from arguably a failed leader [as a namesake] to the visionary world leader who resonated with all of the soldiers that he led on a world stage. He was recognized and admired. There’s no doubt … the soldiers under his command knew they were being led by a man of character, and he inspired them to do their life’s best work on a daily basis — whether that be in combat, whether that be in training, or whether that be later in life as a statesman."

Fort Eisenhower is one of nine military installations that have undergone name changes this year to remove Confederate associations. The renaming initiative began in 2020 and was mandated by Congress in 2021. The Defense Department has a deadline to implement the recommendations made by the Naming Commission, which was established by Congress to identify and address U.S. military items bearing names associated with the Confederacy.

In addition to Fort Gordon's renaming, other military installations that have undergone name changes include Fort Moore in Georgia, Fort Liberty in North Carolina, Fort Walker in Virginia, Fort Cavazos in Texas, Fort Gregg-Adams in Virginia, Fort Barfoot in Virginia, Fort Johnson in Louisiana, and Fort Novosel in Alabama. The Naming Commission has also recommended renaming hundreds of other items, such as streets and buildings situated on military installations.

According to CBS News, the overall cost to implement the Naming Commission's suggestions throughout the military is estimated at approximately $62.5 million. The Defense Department is working towards meeting the deadline to carry out these changes by the end of the year. The renaming of Fort Gordon to Fort Eisenhower signifies the Army's commitment to creating a more inclusive and representative environment within its installations.