The historic military training post in Georgia, known for years as Fort Benning, has had its name restored to honor a World War I hero rather than a Confederate general. This change was officially marked by a ceremony held at the base near Columbus, a key installation for training infantry troops and tank crews, and the home of the prestigious Army Ranger School. Fort Benning hosts approximately 70,000 soldiers, civilian employees, and military families.
This renaming marks the second name change for the installation in under two years, a process involving updates to signage, official documents, and digital platforms at a projected cost of $653,000. The previous change to Fort Moore in 2023 was part of a broader initiative to remove Confederate names from military bases, a movement initiated by Congress in 2020 and concluded during President Joe Biden’s tenure.
Originally named for Henry L. Benning, a Confederate brigadier general, the base will now honor Fred Benning, a young corporal recognized for his bravery in World War I. The Pentagon under President Donald Trump facilitated this reversion by identifying soldiers with the same surname to honor. Fred Benning, who was later promoted to sergeant, received the Distinguished Service Cross and is remembered for his courageous leadership during the war.
Fred Benning’s granddaughter, Sue Conger-Williams, shared memories of her grandfather, noting his integrity and dedication, qualities reminiscent of his military service. Benning, who later became a mayor and businessman in Nebraska, passed away in 1974. During the ceremony, Fort Benning’s commanding general, Maj. Gen. Colin Tuley, highlighted Benning’s valor in leading his platoon under fire in France.
Previously, Fort Benning had been renamed Fort Moore, commemorating Lt. Gen. Hal Moore and his wife, Julia Moore, who both contributed significantly to military and local community welfare. While the post’s name has reverted, Maj. Gen. Tuley emphasized the enduring legacy of the Moores, with future plans to honor their impact in a meaningful way.
In a similar adjustment, North Carolina’s largest Army base, formerly Fort Liberty, reclaimed its original name, Fort Bragg, in a series of recent base renamings.
Context and Clarity
The restoration of Fort Benning’s name underscores ongoing efforts to acknowledge historical legacies while honoring contemporary heroes. This decision reflects broader societal shifts toward re-evaluating historical figures memorialized in public spaces, ensuring they align with current values and inclusive narratives.
For residents and personnel associated with Fort Benning, the reversion to its historical name may evoke a sense of continuity and connection to its storied past. However, the repeated changes also highlight logistical challenges and financial implications, as the costs of such transitions can be significant. This may prompt discussions about how best to balance preserving history with honoring modern values.
Ultimately, the renaming process at Fort Benning and other military installations contributes to wider conversations about heritage, identity, and the symbols that represent national unity and pride. These changes can influence public perception and community cohesion, encouraging reflection on how history is commemorated and remembered. For local communities, it serves as a reminder of the evolving relationship between military tradition and societal progress.