Grabbing move that’s already stirring debate across the country, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has directed the U.S. Navy to rename the USNS Harvey Milk, a vessel originally named after one of the most well-known figures in LGBTQ+ history. But what’s drawing even more attention than the decision itself is the timing: Hegseth made the call during Pride Month.
The USNS Harvey Milk was christened in 2021, named after the pioneering San Francisco city supervisor and gay rights advocate who was assassinated in 1978. The ship was part of a broader initiative to honor diverse figures from American history, aiming to reflect the values of inclusion and equality. But under Hegseth’s leadership, that direction is clearly being reevaluated — and fast.
While the Defense Department hasn’t officially released the new name for the ship, Hegseth’s order is already being seen by supporters as a bold step toward refocusing the military’s identity around more traditional ideals. Critics, however, say it sends a message of exclusion at a time when the armed forces are already struggling with recruitment and morale.
For many observers, the choice to make this move during June — a month dedicated to celebrating LGBTQ+ pride and honoring decades of activism — speaks volumes. Whether intentional or not, the decision landed with extra impact. Some conservative voices online have praised the timing, seeing it as a statement that challenges what they view as politicization within the military. Others find it deeply divisive.
Pete Hegseth, a military veteran, media personality, and now Defense Secretary, has long been vocal about his belief in returning the military to a more focused, mission-first culture. Since stepping into his role, he’s called for strengthening warfighting capabilities, cutting back on what he describes as “ideological distractions,” and restoring what he terms “military seriousness.”
The USNS Harvey Milk, a replenishment oiler used to refuel other ships at sea, was chosen as part of the Navy’s John Lewis-class vessels — all named after civil rights leaders. While the class remains intact, the decision to specifically rename this ship highlights growing tensions in how history and values are reflected in national institutions.
Naming military assets after prominent civilians isn’t new. From aircraft carriers honoring presidents to submarines named after statesmen, it’s a longstanding tradition. But as culture wars have made their way into the armed forces, those names carry more symbolic weight than ever.
To Hegseth’s supporters, the move signals a course correction — one that asserts the military’s main job isn’t cultural signaling but national defense. They argue that naming ships after activists, regardless of their personal courage, sends a confusing message about what qualities the military celebrates. By removing Harvey Milk’s name from the hull, they believe Hegseth is reaffirming the values of strength, unity, and purpose.
Social media reactions have been predictably polarized. Some praised the Defense Secretary for what they called “perfect timing” and “a return to common sense,” especially during a month they feel is overly saturated with political symbolism. Memes and comments across conservative platforms celebrated the move as a quiet but powerful response to what they see as creeping ideological overreach.
On the other hand, LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, civil rights organizations, and some veterans expressed disappointment, calling it an unnecessary provocation during a month intended to honor a community that has long fought for recognition — both in society and within the military ranks. For them, removing Milk’s name is more than a policy shift; it’s an erasure.
Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official in California, served in the U.S. Navy before becoming a national symbol for equality. His story has been taught in schools, portrayed in Hollywood films, and cited by presidents. Supporters argue that honoring him on a Navy ship wasn’t just symbolic — it was a recognition of real service, bravery, and sacrifice.
Still, Hegseth’s defenders maintain that while Milk’s legacy may be important in civilian life, it doesn’t align with the ethos they believe the military must project. To them, the focus should be on valor in battle, military tradition, and unity above all else — not identity.
Whether this renaming marks the beginning of a broader shift remains to be seen. Hegseth hasn’t commented on whether more vessels from the John Lewis-class will be reconsidered, but the move has certainly ignited conversations about who gets remembered — and how.
For now, the USNS formerly known as Harvey Milk continues to perform its duties in the fleet, but with a new name on its hull — and a new chapter in the ongoing cultural debate over the symbols America chooses to honor.
