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Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer is voicing strong opposition to President Trump's decision to rename Fort Johnson in Louisiana back to Fort Polk. The fort, named in 2023 to honor Albany war hero and Medal of Honor recipient Sergeant Henry Johnson, is being renamed as part of a broader initiative to restore the original names of several U.S. military bases. Schumer described the move as "a vile insult" to Johnson's legacy, emphasizing the heroism Johnson displayed during World War I. Johnson, a member of the Harlem Hellfighters, was recognized for his bravery in repelling a German raiding party and protecting fellow soldiers, despite suffering numerous injuries.
The decision to revert the fort's name is part of President Trump's plan to restore the names of military installations that were changed during the Biden administration. These bases, including Fort Polk, were initially named after Confederate leaders. Spectrum News reports that the Army is renaming Fort Polk in honor of World War II General James H. Polk.
The renaming has sparked widespread criticism, with New York State Senators and Assemblymembers expressing that the change dishonors Johnson's memory and overlooks the contributions of Black Americans to the nation's history. Schumer and others are urging the Trump administration to reverse the decision, calling it "utterly indefensible." Schumer's statement highlights Johnson's patriotism, noting that he "loved America when America did not love him back."
The controversy continues as the administration proceeds with renaming other bases across the country.