Former Fort Benning commanders speak out on renaming
COLUMBUS, Ga. () — Following the news that Fort Moore has been renamed back to Fort Benning, announced by the Secretary of Defense on March 3, former Fort Benning commanders are speaking out.
Retired Maj. Gen. Patrick Donahoe served as the commanding general of the Maneuver Center of Excellence at Fort Benning from July 2020 to July 2022. He said:
'We should understand the upsides in naming our local base after both LTG Hal and his wife, Julia Moore. The renaming honored our Korean and Vietnam War veterans while also uniquely recognizing the vital role of military spouses by naming the installation after both a Soldier and their spouse. This is the only military post in the nation named for a married couple who exemplify service, sacrifice, and unwavering character. It is even more meaningful that the Moores remain a part of the installation, resting in its cemetery.
As the home of the Maneuver Center of Excellence, Hal Moore was a great choice as he represents both branches Armor and Infantry! Commissioned into the Infantry he commanded in the 7th Cavalry in Vietnam as highlighted in the book and movie 'We Were Soldiers Once And Young.'
In the Army, you strive to be all you can be—here, you come to Be Moore!'
Former Fort Benning Garrison Commander (2015-2017) retired Brig. Gen. Andy Hilmes also offered a statement.
'The renaming of DoD installations has become a highly emotional and politicized subject. It pains me to see fellow Americans so divided on this matter. America is at its best when its people are united. Hal & Julia Moore, who made much of the history they are famous for here in the Chattahoochee Valley, were uniters of men, women, and families of all colors, religions, and backgrounds. The blended human fabric of the modern U.S. Army enabled any success I was involved in during 28 years of service to the nation. Requiring Fort Moore to undergo a name change twice in as many years not only invites taxpayers to question the appropriate use of resources, but also reopens old, divisive wounds that distract us from moving forward together on more complex and far-reaching matters. Further, it indirectly politicizes an institution every American expects to remain apolitical, regardless of who the commander-in-chief is.'
Read more about the renaming here.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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