The US Navy’s decision to rename the USNS Harvey Milk has sparked widespread discussion and controversy. In a recent announcement, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth revealed that the oiler ship will now carry the name USNS Oscar V. Peterson. This move, made during Pride Month, is seen by many as a significant shift in how the military recognizes diversity and honors its history.
The renaming of the USNS Harvey Milk is not just a minor bureaucratic change—it’s a powerful statement about values, inclusion, and the evolving identity of the United States armed forces. Critics argue that removing Harvey Milk’s name, especially during Pride Month, sends a troubling message to LGBTQ+ service members and their allies. Supporters, however, see it as a necessary step to reinforce traditional military culture.
Background and Significance of the Harvey Milk Ship
Harvey Milk was a groundbreaking figure in American history. As one of the first openly gay elected officials in the United States, Milk worked tirelessly for civil rights and equality. His service as a Navy officer during the Korean War, followed by his later discharge due to his sexual orientation, highlights the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the military.
The USNS Harvey Milk was christened in 2021 as part of the John Lewis-class oilers, a series named after civil rights leaders and activists. The decision to rename the ship comes amid a broader effort by the current administration to review and, in some cases, reverse diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives across the military.
Key Developments and Public Reaction
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s announcement on June 27, 2025, made headlines across the country. The new name, USNS Oscar V. Peterson, honors an African American naval officer who earned the Navy Cross for his bravery in World War II. While Peterson’s legacy is undeniably important, the timing and context of the renaming have drawn sharp criticism.
Prominent political figures have spoken out against the decision. Nancy Pelosi, former House Speaker and representative for San Francisco, described the move as “a betrayal of American values.” California Governor Gavin Newsom echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that Harvey Milk’s legacy as a veteran and civil rights pioneer should not be erased.
House Democrats have introduced legislation to block the renaming of ships named after civil rights icons, including Harvey Milk, Thurgood Marshall, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and Harriet Tubman. However, with Republicans controlling Congress, the bill faces significant hurdles.
Political and Cultural Implications
The controversy over the USNS Harvey Milk reflects deeper tensions within American society. The military has long been a mirror of the nation’s values, and decisions about who to honor with ship names are closely watched. For many, the renaming is a step backward in the fight for equality and recognition.
Supporters of the decision argue that military assets should reflect the priorities of the current administration, particularly in reinforcing a “warrior ethos.” Critics, however, see it as a targeted attack on LGBTQ+ rights and a rejection of the progress made in recent years.
Summary of Key Points
- The USNS Harvey Milk has been renamed the USNS Oscar V. Peterson by order of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
- The announcement was made during Pride Month, a period traditionally dedicated to celebrating LGBTQ+ rights.
- The decision has been widely criticized by Democrats, civil rights leaders, and LGBTQ+ advocates, who view it as an attack on inclusivity.
- House Democrats have introduced a bill to block the renaming of ships named after civil rights icons, though its passage is unlikely.
- The move is part of a broader effort to roll back diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives in the military.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Military Naming Conventions
As the USNS Oscar V. Peterson prepares to set sail, the debate over military naming conventions is far from over. The controversy highlights the ongoing struggle between tradition and progress in the armed forces. While some believe that military assets should reflect the nation’s diversity, others argue for a return to more traditional values.
The legacy of Harvey Milk and the values he championed continue to inspire millions. The renaming of the ship may be a bureaucratic decision, but its impact is felt far beyond the Navy’s fleet. It serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusion and the ongoing fight for equality in American society.
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