In a momentous ceremony marked by cannon fire and the playing of "The Caisson Song," Fort Bragg in North Carolina was officially rededicated to honor World War II hero PFC Roland L. Bragg, and the event reverses a previous renaming of the base to "Fort Liberty" in what was part of a broader initiative to remove Confederate names from military facilities.
The new designation was celebrated in an event led by Trump Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, which was attended by Bragg’s descendants, military officials, and local representatives just outside Fayetteville, N.C., as Fox News reports.
Fort Bragg originally bore the name of Confederate Gen. Braxton Bragg, a figure from the Mexican-American War who later joined the Confederacy.
The military complex, spanning an area of 260,000 personnel, was temporarily switched to "Fort Liberty" following the 2021 National Defense Authorization Bill, legislation that was led by Democrats' efforts to cleanse Confederate legacies from military sites.
Hegseth officiated the rededication proceedings, formally returning the historical military base’s name back to Fort Bragg, albeit in honor of a wholly different figure. PFC Roland L. Bragg, a brave World War II hero, after whom the base is now named, was noted for his gallantry during the Battle of Bastogne and other significant encounters. His ancestral ties to Europe played a unique role in his ability to negotiate with a Nazi officer for the release of captured American soldiers.
The rededication was a symbolic gesture with multiple generations of Bragg's family attending. The strong presence of military personnel and the family stories of Roland L. Bragg’s brave deeds added to its significance. Lt. Gen. Gregory Anderson also took part, emphasizing the base’s vital role in America’s defense infrastructure.
In his remarks, Anderson highlighted Fort Bragg’s strategic importance, describing its vast capabilities and support for thousands of soldiers, civilians, and military families. His comments underscored the base’s moniker as “our nation's premier force projection platform,” a nucleus of military readiness. Reflecting on its old and new identity, Anderson reiterated that “Fort Bragg is not just any base,” but a vital lifeline for the Army’s quick deployment capabilities.
Rep. Richard Hudson, who has long supported the renaming effort, highlighted the distinction between the previous Confederate connection and the new dedication to Roland Bragg. Hudson stated, “Fort Bragg honors these brave soldiers who have passed through its gates," and represents loud echoes of American strength.
For many, the naming journey encapsulates the extensive historical reevaluation process the military has undertaken. The authorized rededication of Fort Bragg signifies a step forward while keeping a respectful nod to the past. The grandson’s words on his grandfather’s dedicated military career and love for his family epitomized Roland Bragg's embodiment of bravery and humility, traits cherished by his family and the nation alike.
Reinforcing Fort Bragg's new-found legacy, Hegseth asserted, “I never called it Fort Liberty because it wasn’t Fort Liberty -- it’s Fort Bragg." His words resonated deeply within the crowd, a powerful sentiment accentuating Fort Bragg’s integral role in defense strategies and troop morale.
As the ceremony concluded, attendees reflected on the monumental contributions of PFC Bragg, not just to his nation, but to the very ethos of the Army community. His granddaughter shared colorful anecdotes about his character, such as his unique pancake-grilling escapades that captured the loving image of a quiet yet impactful hero.
Beyond its dedication ceremony, Fort Bragg continues to stand as a tribute to bravery and leadership, traits exemplified by Roland Bragg throughout his service. As plans for additional renaming of bases, such as Fort Benning in Georgia, are considered, Fort Bragg’s story might set a precedent for honoring individuals whose life stories enrich military history.
This tribute at Fort Bragg serves not only as a reflection of past heroics but also as a beacon guiding future ones. With a focus on the commemorated efforts of its servicemen and women, the new name breathes life into the legacy of PFC Roland L. Bragg, forever marking the site as a landmark of both historical and contemporary military valor.
