That was quite the leap of logic, Eska, since I didn’t advocate bringing troops home but I did point out a reason for a reduced need in Germany specifically. I spent 3 great years there and my son was born there so I have a significant emotional attachment but I also realize that things change.
There are significant and valid concerns for the debate on the size and deployment of the US military. There can be no doubt that national defense is a legitmate function of our government but there is a need to discuss just how much we can afford. Your post correctly notes some of the strategic risks that frame the discussion.
I have a relative, gets sent to Afghan every summer for 2-3 months, in 2013 going to Somalia, already on the schedule no matter who gets elected this fall. I do believe the decisions made by our military are above & beyond the politics we all see on TV; and I trust their perspective way more than any political.