The family of General Richard Cavazos, the first Hispanic four-star general in the U.S. Army, expressed their disappointment over President Donald Trump’s recent announcement to revert the name of Fort Cavazos back to Fort Hood. This change, expected to take place soon, comes two years after the base was renamed to honor Gen. Cavazos, a decision made during the Biden administration as part of efforts to eliminate Confederate references from military bases.
Originally named after Confederate General John Bell Hood, Fort Hood was renamed Fort Cavazos in 2023. The Cavazos family was informed about the upcoming change during a phone conversation with an Army representative, who indicated that the new name might honor a different figure—Colonel Hood, a World War I officer recognized for his bravery, rather than the controversial Confederate general.
The Cavazos family expressed their confusion regarding the president’s reasoning for the name change, stating, “We do not and cannot share the same understanding as the president.” They highlighted the significant impact General Cavazos had on Hispanic representation within the military, with numerous military figures, including General Colin Powell, having previously remarked on his influence.
In their statement, the Cavazos family emphasized that their primary concern remains on the dedicated service members of the armed forces, recognizing that while the base’s name may change, the legacy of those who serve will endure. Gen. Richard Cavazos, a veteran of both the Korean and Vietnam wars, served as the commanding general at Fort Hood from 1980 to 1982 and left a lasting impact on the military community.
Overall, this situation highlights the complexity of naming military installations and the deep emotional ties that families and communities have with those names. The legacy of General Cavazos continues to inspire many, particularly Hispanic soldiers who look up to his achievements as a groundbreaking leader in the U.S. Army.