Secretary Hegseth renames USNS Harvey Milk to honor war hero Oscar V. Peterson

In June 2025, the U.S. Navy, under Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, officially announced the renaming of the replenishment ship originally named USNS Harvey Milk to USNS Oscar V. Peterson. The name change was motivated by Hegseth's intent to remove perceived political influence from the naming of naval vessels, emphasizing a focus on honoring military service rather than political figures. This decision reflects a broader trend within the Department of Defense to align with the current administration’s priorities and military traditions. Harvey Milk, a significant figure in the LGBTQ+ rights movement and the first openly gay person elected to public office in California, had the ship named after him during President Obama’s term in 2016. Despite his historical importance and contributions to civil rights, Hegseth’s announcement deemed the renaming necessary for fostering pride among sailors regarding the ship they serve on, distancing from the more politically-oriented decisions of past administrations. Oscar V. Peterson, the ship's new namesake, was posthumously awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for his bravery during World War II, specifically during the Battle of Coral Sea. On May 7, 1942, Peterson, as the chief watertender aboard the USS Neosho, led a repair team that heroically managed to keep the ship operational despite devastating attacks. Peterson's selfless actions resulted in him sustaining grave injuries, and he died shortly after the battle. Hegseth asserted that Peterson's legacy embodies the spirit of sacrifice and duty that is celebrated within naval culture. The renaming announcement faced criticism, particularly from LGBTQ+ activists and political figures like Rep. Nancy Pelosi, highlighting concerns about erasing historical narratives tied to Milks' influence in advancing civil rights. The decision prompted discussions about naval ship naming conventions and the implications these choices have in reflecting modern values and historical legacy. Overall, Hegseth’s directive represents a significant shift in how military assets are recognized, prioritizing traditional heroism over political activism in an area that continues to spark debates about inclusivity and representation within the armed forces.