MCRD/ERR PARRIS ISLAND, S.C. -- As battles continue to be fought in the deserts of Iraq and the mountains of Afghanistan, the concentration of troops in those areas has played a crucial role in the allied forces successes thus far. But, some ask if American forces are really needed in such heavy numbers outside the U.S.
During the national convention of the Veterans of Foreign Wars in Cincinnati Aug. 16, President George W. Bush announced that the United States will change its global posture over the next decade.
America's current posture is still modeled the same way it was decades ago. The placement of mass numbers of allied forces in Europe was to combat Soviet aggression, but a threat no longer exists there, and many believe change is needed to make our fighting forces more efficient against the war on terror.
"The world has changed a great deal and our posture must change with it, so we can be more effective at projecting our strength and spreading freedom and peace," said Bush.
"We'll move some of our troops and capabilities to new locations, so they can surge quickly to deal with unexpected threats. We'll take advantage of 21st century military technologies to rapidly deploy increased combat power."
As the new plan takes form over the next decade, Bush said more U.S. troops will be stationed at, and deployed from, home bases in the United States. This will give service members more time on the home front with fewer Permanent Change of Station moves, and will also reduce the stress their families have as well. Military spouses will have fewer job changes, greater stability and have more time with their children at home.
Although U.S. forces will still have a significant presence overseas, Bush said that within the next 10 years, 60,000 to 70,000 uniformed personnel will be brought home, as well as 100,000 family members and civilian employees. He also noted that taxpayers will benefit from the cost savings of closing obsolete bases and facilities overseas.