News Summary
Columbus, Georgia, is witnessing a debate over a proposed name change for Fort Benning, shifting back to Fort Moore to honor Lt. Gen. Hal Moore and his wife, Julia. This transition has support and opposition, as it connects to broader discussions on renaming military installations linked to Confederate figures. Advocates argue the change commemorates significant contributions to the military, while critics highlight concerns about divisiveness. The name change is part of recent legislative efforts amidst financial implications and a need for Congressional negotiation.
Columbus, Georgia, is at the center of a potential name change for Fort Benning, as the Republican-led House of Representatives has passed legislation to revert the base’s name back to Fort Moore. This move aims to honor Lt. Gen. Hal Moore and his wife, Julia Moore, recognized for their significant contributions to the Army and support for military families.
The legislation to rename Fort Benning is part of a broader defense spending bill that received approval this month. The name change is supported by advocates who believe it appropriately commemorates the couple’s legacy. Lt. Gen. Hal Moore, a highly decorated soldier renowned for his service in the Korean and Vietnam wars, co-authored the notable book, “We Were Soldiers Once … and Young.” Both he and Julia Moore are interred at Fort Benning, with Julia noted for her unwavering commitment to military families.
Stephen Moore, the couple’s son, advocates for the name change, stating that reverting to Fort Moore would serve as a powerful example for warriors. The current name, Fort Benning, honors Confederate General Henry Benning, who was a prominent secessionist and an advocate for pro-slavery views.
The name transition to Fort Moore initially occurred during the Biden administration as part of ongoing efforts to rename military installations named after Confederate figures. Fort Benning’s name changed back to officially honor Cpl. Fred Benning, a World War I hero who received the Distinguished Service Cross, during the Trump administration in 2023.
Financial implications accompany the renaming actions, with cost estimates for changing the name back to Fort Benning at approximately $653,000 for expenses related to signage, ID badges, and police uniforms. The earlier name change to Fort Moore incurred about $830,000, which included expenses for the removal of other Confederate names.
The topic of renaming military installations has ignited debate, with critics citing the potential for divisiveness in such decisions. U.S. Rep. Marilyn Strickland criticized the name change back to Fort Benning, labeling it a politically motivated action. On the other hand, proponents, such as U.S. Rep. Austin Scott, argue that the name Moore honors a couple exemplifying patriotism and service.
Additionally, Rep. Scott is introducing a measure to rename Fort Gordon in Augusta to Fort Shughart Gordon. This name would recognize two Medal of Honor recipients, Randall Shughart and Gary Gordon. Fort Gordon was originally named after Confederate General John Gordon and was renamed to honor President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 2023.
The Trump administration’s initiatives to return military installations’ names have sparked concerns about the implications of honoring historically divisive figures. Responses to the proposal to rename Fort Benning back to Fort Moore have shown a mixed reception, with some constituents celebrating the potential change while others express disappointment.
Before the proposed name change is finalized, Congress must reconcile the variances between the House and Senate versions of the legislation through negotiations. A comprehensive understanding of these discussions will be crucial for shaping the future identity of Fort Benning.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Military.com: Georgia’s Fort Benning Would Become Fort Moore Again Under House Bill
- Axios: Jimmy Carter Funeral Service
- WSBTV: What’s in a Name If This Bill Passes?
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fort Benning
- Atlanta News First: Fort Moore’s Name Changed Back to Fort Benning
- Google Search: Fort Moore Name Change
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
