The U.S. Army reinstated the name Fort Rucker during a ceremony held at the U.S. Army Air Museum on Thursday.

This change, directed by the Army Secretary in June, pays tribute to Colonel Edward W. Rucker, an aviation trailblazer and Army Air Corps pilot from World War I. The fort was previously named after Confederate soldier Edmund Rucker, but was renamed Fort Norvel in 2023. This was part of a broader effort to replace Confederate names at military locations, ultimately honoring Michael J. Novosel Sr., a Medal of Honor recipient from World War II and the Vietnam War.

Major General Claire A. Gill, who leads the Aviation Center of Excellence as well as Fort Rucker, welcomed attendees with heartfelt remarks. He described the occasion as significant for the Wiregrass community, emphasizing that while the name reverts to something more familiar, it now represents someone different.

Gill acknowledged Rucker’s remarkable legacy as a pioneer, stating that his contributions took place during one of the most challenging times in U.S. history. Rucker began his service with the Missouri National Guard in 1915 and later participated in border engagements during the Mexican-American War. He opted for flight training rather than pursuing a traditional Army commission. After going through training in Toronto and Texas, he joined the 27th Air Squadron in June 1918, where he distinguished himself by taking on French enemy forces on a daring mission, earning a notable service cross. His bravery in confronting enemy aircraft while safeguarding reconnaissance missions was commended. Rucker was also awarded the French Croix de Guerre with palm leaves for his extraordinary valor.

Gill remarked that Rucker’s heroism, along with that of other World War I aviators, has inspired many to follow paths in aviation. He reflected on the legacy tied to the installation.

“They say that every house has a heart. Now, our home bears a name that feels right again—Fort Rucker. The essence of this place will always belong to airmen like Edward Rucker, Mike Novasel, and everyone who considers this their home.”