In a major shake-up that’s sparking headlines across the country, Pete Hegseth announced that the U.S. Navy ship named after LGBTQ+ icon Harvey Milk will now be renamed the USNS Oscar V. Peterson — a tribute to a WWII hero who died saving lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor.
The decision has quickly divided opinion, with supporters praising the change as a return to honoring military heroes, while others are calling it an erasure of progress and LGBTQ+ recognition.
Why Is the Ship Being Renamed?
Pete Hegseth, a conservative commentator and former Army officer, made the announcement during a live appearance, saying it’s time for the military to “honor real courage, not political activism.”
The USNS Harvey Milk was originally named in 2016 to honor Harvey Milk, a gay rights leader and former Navy officer who was tragically assassinated in 1978. The naming was seen by many as a powerful symbol of diversity and inclusion in the armed forces.
But Hegseth believes the name should reflect traditional military values. He said:
“Oscar V. Peterson didn’t just serve — he gave his life to save his crew. That’s the kind of legacy our Navy should carry forward.”
Who Was Oscar V. Peterson?
Oscar V. Peterson was a Navy machinist during World War II, stationed aboard the USS Neosho. During the Pearl Harbor attack, he suffered terrible burns but stayed at his post to save the ship and his fellow sailors.
He died from his injuries and was awarded the Medal of Honor, the highest military decoration for bravery.
Supporters say naming a ship after Peterson brings focus back to heroism and sacrifice, the core of military tradition.
Why Harvey Milk’s Name Meant So Much
Harvey Milk wasn’t just a politician — he was also a former Navy diver who became one of America’s first openly gay elected officials. Naming a ship after him marked a big moment in U.S. military history, recognizing the LGBTQ+ community’s contributions and service.
Now, LGBTQ+ advocates fear the name change is more than just symbolic — they see it as a rollback of visibility and respect.
One activist stated:
“Renaming this ship feels like an intentional erasure of LGBTQ+ progress. It’s deeply disappointing.”
Public Reaction — Split and Heated
Reactions online are polarized. Some praise the decision as a way to restore focus on historical military valor. Others view it as political overreach and a rejection of inclusion.
The U.S. Navy has not officially confirmed the renaming yet, but Hegseth’s statement has already sparked intense national debate. It’s unclear whether the change will go through — or face legal and public resistance.