As residents of Hawaii, we hold a deep connection to culture, land and the deities that define identity. The decision by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) to name its new small modular nuclear reactor (SMR) project “Project Pele” raises significant concerns about cultural insensitivity and the appropriation of sacred names for military purposes. This initiative not only disrespects the profound spiritual significance of Pele, but also represents a costly, misguided, and environmentally destructive approach to energy production.