U.S. Navy Ship Renaming Sparks Cultural Debate Amid 'Warrior Culture' Initiative

5 June 2025

USNS Harvey Milk in 2024 / REUTERS

The U.S. Navy's recent decision to rename the USNS Harvey Milk, along with potential changes to other vessels named after civil rights icons, has ignited a national conversation about representation, military values, and the politicization of historical legacies.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has directed the Navy to remove the name of Harvey Milk, a gay rights activist and former Navy officer from a replenishment oiler. This move is part of a broader initiative to "reestablish the warrior culture" within the military, aligning with the current administration's priorities. Other ships under review include those named after Thurgood Marshall, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Harriet Tubman, Cesar Chavez, and Medgar Evers. These vessels, part of the John Lewis-class, were originally named to honor individuals who made significant contributions to civil rights and social justice.

The timing of the renaming announcement coinciding with Pride Month has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi condemned the decision as a "shameful, vindictive erasure" of those who fought for equality. California Governor Gavin Newsom echoed this sentiment, stating that the move undermines the values that veterans like Milk stood for.

Actor Sean Penn, who portrayed Milk in the 2008 film "Milk," labeled the decision as petty and regressive. Screenwriter Dustin Lance Black also criticized the move, suggesting it reflects a lack of understanding of LGBTQ experiences.

This renaming initiative is part of a wider effort by the Department of Defense to shift away from diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Earlier this year, Secretary Hegseth ordered the cessation of official observances for heritage or awareness months, including Pride Month and Black History Month, citing concerns about unity within the ranks.

Critics argue that these actions represent a politicization of the military and an attempt to rewrite history by sidelining the contributions of marginalized groups. Supporters contend that the focus should return to traditional military values and honor those who exemplify combat heroism.

As the Navy proceeds with the renaming process, the debate over how the military honors its heroes continues. The outcome will likely influence future decisions on how the armed forces recognize and commemorate individuals who have shaped American history.

The controversy underscores the ongoing tension between preserving historical legacies and adapting to evolving societal values within military institutions.