The U.S. Department of War logo, representing the federal department responsible for defense, consists of a graphic depicting the Pentagon and the department’s name in large serif lettering. The word “of” is italicized. Inside a horizontal oval is a geometric illustration of the five-sided Pentagon building, viewed from above at an angle. The building’s wings, central courtyard and windowed facade are visible. The logo comes in horizontal and vertical layouts, with the department’s name positioned beside or below the symbol. Its primary colors are blue and light blue-gray. Black, white and single-color blue versions are also available, and the Pentagon symbol can be used independently. The logo was updated in 2025 following the renewed use of the historic name Department of War instead of Department of Defense in public communications. The Pentagon image refers to the department’s headquarters and is distinct from its official circular seal featuring an eagle.
The Department of War is a secondary designation for the United States Department of Defense, the federal department headquartered at the Pentagon and responsible for the country’s armed forces and defense policy. Its history dates back to August 7, 1789, when the original War Department was established. In 1947, the National Military Establishment was created following the consolidation of the War and Navy Departments and the establishment of an independent Air Force. It was renamed the Department of Defense in 1949. In September 2025, an executive order authorized the renewed use of the historic name Department of War in official communications and public materials. However, as of September 2026, Department of Defense remains the name established under federal law. The department oversees the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Space Force, coordinates the activities of the unified combatant commands, develops defense strategy and ensures the training, equipping and deployment of the armed forces.
