The US Department of Defense has recently come under scrutiny after the removal of its webpage dedicated to Major General Charles Calvin Rogers, who earned the Medal of Honor for his service during the Vietnam War. The webpage now leads to a "404" error message, igniting widespread discussions on the impact of current political climates on historical recognition.
On March 16, 2025, the page celebrating Rogers’ significant contributions showed the error message, indicating the page may have been removed, renamed, or is temporarily unavailable. This change was highlighted on social media by writer Brandon Friedman, who captured and shared a screenshot of what was once the entry for Rogers on Google. The URL of the page had been altered to include "deimedal," raising eyebrows about the intentions behind the change.
Charles C. Rogers, awarded the Medal of Honor by President Richard Nixon in 1970, stands as one of the most decorated African American soldiers of his time. His heroic actions took place during fierce fighting near the Cambodian border on November 1, 1968, where he commanded the 1st Battalion, 5th Artillery Regiment from Fire Support Base Rita. During this tumultuous period, Rogers was wounded three times yet continued to lead his troops effectively against North Vietnamese forces until the enemy was repelled.
Rogers' legacy isn’t just defined by his bravery but also by the barriers he broke as the highest-ranking African American to receive the Medal of Honor. The West Virginia Military Hall of Fame recalls how, during the dark days of war, he directed artillery fire and led counterattacks, showcasing not only his tactical capability but also his determination to fight for his men.
Major Rogers' path to prominence is rooted deep within the fabric of American military history, and his story draws from the adversity of being son to a coal miner from Claremont, Fayette County, Virginia. After his passing in 1990, his significant contributions were honored with his burial at Arlington National Cemetery and the renaming of the Charles C. Rogers Bridge back home to reflect his enduring impact.
The change to the Defense Department’s webpage for Rogers aligns with broader efforts from the Trump administration, which has sought to rollback Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives across federal institutions. Just days prior to the disappearance of Rogers’ webpage, on March 14, 2025, an appeals court upheld executive orders aimed at ending federal support for DEI programs, raising concerns about the future of historical recognition for minority achievements.
Since taking office, Trump has been vocal about eliminating what he has characterized as illegal DEI mandates. The White House has made it clear through various orders and policies, aimed at dismantling systemic efforts meant to promote inclusivity and representation within government agencies, opening discussions on what this means for the recognition of minority military figures.
The page you are looking for might have been moved, renamed, or may be temporarily unavailable," reads the error message now on display. Observers note this shift reflects not just the removal of content, but possibly a systematic erasure of important narratives about diversity within the military.
Critics argue the actions reflect a wider trend of diminishing the histories of minority figures, particularly as public institutions, such as the Department of Defense, grapple with how to address their recognition. Some see this as more than just symbolic; they fear it's indicative of a polarized political climate where the legacies of soldiers like Rogers could be swept under the rug.
Despite the altered online presence, Rogers' heroic actions and contributions to American military history remain documented through various historical accounts and military records. His commitment to service and the sacrifices he made for his country can’t easily be erased, as they serve as powerful reminders of courage and resilience.
The continued dialogue on this issue raises questions: How should we honor and preserve the legacies of those who served, especially minority figures who have faced barriers even beyond the battlefield? Are contemporary politics shaping our historical narratives, and to what extent will this impact future generations’ perceptions of inclusivity and recognition within military history?
While the Department of Defense’s website may currently reflect changes under the Trump administration, advocates and historians remain steadfastly committed to ensuring figures like Rogers receive the acknowledgment and praise they deserve. Every story of valor and courage must be preserved, especially those who fought not just against enemies abroad, but against the prejudices within their own backyards.