U.S. Military Will Retain "strong and Vibrant" Footprint in Europe Under P [View All]

[Judi Lynn]

U.S. Military Will Retain "strong and Vibrant" Footprint in Europe Under Plans for Redrawing Forces
By Colleen Barry Associated Press Writer
Published: Sep 12, 2003




STUTTGART, Germany (AP) - The U.S. military will keep a "strong and vibrant" presence in Europe, the top U.S. military commander in Europe said Friday, even as Washington considers plans for a more agile force.
One of Marine Gen. James Jones' first tasks after taking command of the 116,000-strong U.S. forces in Europe in January was to draft plans to transform the defensive Cold War military structure into a sleeker force able to deploy more quickly.

Since then, there has been much speculation about the scope of the contraction. But Jones told The Associated Press in an interview that Europe would remain a significant forward base.

"It remains important to have a strong and vibrant footprint in this part of the world," said Jones, who also serves as NATO's top military commander.

"Virtual presence is actual absence. You have to be there to make a difference. Nobody is talking about retreating to fortress America in this concept." (snip/...)

http://ap.tbo.com/ap/breaking/MGAB1C2EIKD.html

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