Fort Bragg Name Change: The Return to Fort Roland L. Bragg and Its Historical Significance
Fort Bragg Name Change
The name "Fort Bragg" has long been synonymous with military excellence, housing some of the U.S. Army’s most elite units, including the 82nd Airborne Division and Special Operations Forces. However, in recent years, the base has been at the center of a contentious debate over its name, which originally honored Confederate General Braxton Bragg.
In 2023, the base was renamed Fort Liberty as part of a broader effort to remove Confederate symbols from military installations. Fast forward to February 2025, and the base is once again Fort Bragg—but this time, it honors a different Bragg: Private First Class Roland L. Bragg, a decorated World War II hero.
This article delves into the history of Fort Bragg, the reasons behind its renaming to Fort Liberty, and the recent decision to restore its original name while honoring a new namesake. We’ll also explore the life and legacy of Roland L. Bragg, the man now immortalized in the base’s name.
The History of Fort Bragg
Fort Bragg, located in North Carolina, was established in 1918 and named after Confederate General Braxton Bragg. The base has played a pivotal role in U.S. military history, serving as a training ground for soldiers during World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and more recent conflicts in the Middle East. It is home to the 82nd Airborne Division, the U.S. Army Special Operations Command, and other critical units.
However, the base’s namesake, Braxton Bragg, has been a source of controversy. A Confederate general known for his ownership of enslaved people and his poor military record, Bragg’s legacy has been increasingly scrutinized in modern times.
The Renaming to Fort Liberty
In 2021, Congress passed legislation mandating the renaming of military bases and assets that honored Confederate figures. This decision was part of a broader national reckoning with the legacy of the Confederacy and its symbols. A commission was established to oversee the renaming process, and in 2023, Fort Bragg became Fort Liberty.
The name "Fort Liberty" was chosen to reflect the values of freedom and democracy that the U.S. military strives to uphold. However, the change was met with mixed reactions. While many applauded the move as a step toward inclusivity, others argued that the name lacked historical significance and failed to honor the base’s storied legacy.
The Return to Fort Bragg: Honoring Roland L. Bragg
In February 2025, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that Fort Liberty would once again be known as Fort Bragg—but this time, the name would honor Private First Class Roland L. Bragg, a World War II hero.
Roland L. Bragg served with the 17th Airborne Division during World War II and was awarded the Silver Star and Purple Heart for his bravery during the Battle of the Bulge. His actions exemplified the courage and sacrifice of the soldiers who have trained and served at Fort Bragg over the decades.
The decision to rename the base after Roland L. Bragg was seen as a compromise that respected the base’s history while addressing concerns about its Confederate namesake. It also allowed the military to honor a soldier whose legacy aligns with the values of the modern U.S. Army.
Who Was Roland L. Bragg?
Roland L. Bragg was born in 1923 and enlisted in the U.S. Army during World War II. He was assigned to the 17th Airborne Division, which played a crucial role in the Allied victory in Europe. During the Battle of the Bulge, Bragg demonstrated extraordinary courage under fire, earning the Silver Star for his actions.
After the war, Bragg returned to civilian life but remained active in veterans’ organizations. His story is a testament to the bravery and resilience of the soldiers who have served at Fort Bragg over the years.
The Significance of the Name Change
The renaming of Fort Liberty back to Fort Bragg, with Roland L. Bragg as its new namesake, represents a significant moment in U.S. military history. It acknowledges the base’s storied past while addressing the need to move away from symbols of the Confederacy.
The decision has been praised by many as a thoughtful and respectful way to honor the base’s legacy. It also highlights the importance of recognizing the contributions of individual soldiers like Roland L. Bragg, whose bravery and sacrifice embody the values of the U.S. military.
Public Reaction
The renaming has sparked a range of reactions from the public. Veterans and military families have expressed support for the decision, noting that it honors a true hero while preserving the base’s historical identity. However, some critics argue that the change could create confusion and that the name "Fort Liberty" should have been retained.
Conclusion
The story of Fort Bragg’s name change is a reflection of the broader societal shifts taking place in the United States. By renaming the base after Roland L. Bragg, the military has found a way to honor its history while embracing a more inclusive future.
As Fort Bragg continues to serve as a cornerstone of U.S. military operations, its new namesake serves as a reminder of the courage and sacrifice that define the men and women who serve in the armed forces.
Important External Links
- Pentagon Press Release on Fort Bragg Renaming
- History of Fort Bragg
- The Naming Commission’s Report
- Roland L. Bragg’s Military Records
- Battle of the Bulge Historical Overview
By understanding the history and significance of Fort Bragg’s name change, we gain a deeper appreciation for the values and sacrifices that shape the U.S. military.
