Pentagon Becomes Headquarters for the US Department of Defense

During World War II, the United States needed a centralized location to house its growing military establishment. In response, the construction of the Pentagon began on September 11, 1941, and was completed on January 15, 1943. The massive five-sided building in Arlington, Virginia, was designed to accommodate the War Department and various military branches.

Details: On August 15, 1947, the Pentagon officially became the headquarters for the newly established United States Department of Defense. The Department of Defense was created through the National Security Act of 1947, which unified the War Department, Navy Department, and Air Force under a single department overseen by the Secretary of Defense. With its unique design and massive scale, the Pentagon was well-suited to house the newly combined department, serving as a symbol of American military power.

Effects on Pop Culture:

• The Pentagon has become synonymous with American military power and is often referenced in movies, television shows, and literature that deal with military themes or government conspiracy theories.
• The building’s unique design and scale have made it an iconic landmark, frequently appearing in news coverage and documentaries.
• Tours of the Pentagon have become a popular attraction for tourists visiting the Washington, D.C., area, further embedding the building in popular culture.

Prominent People and Countries Involved:

• United States: The country that built and houses the Pentagon as the headquarters for its Department of Defense.
• George Bergstrom and David J. Witmer: The architects responsible for designing the Pentagon.
• President Harry S. Truman: The U.S. president signed the National Security Act of 1947, establishing the Department of Defense and designating the Pentagon as its headquarters.

The Pentagon became the headquarters for the United States Department of Defense on August 15, 1947, after the unification of the military branches under the National Security Act. The building’s unique design and massive scale have made it an iconic symbol of American military power, with its presence in movies, television shows, and literature reflecting its significance in popular culture. The Pentagon continues to serve as a central location for the organization and coordination of U.S. military efforts worldwide.