[Rollo]

aye, Puke. Well said.

In response to US troops in Europe (or worldwide for that matter). Do you really think that these troops are there to defend helpless allies and the US is doing everyone a favor on the tax payer's expense?
No, these troops serve to protect US interest worldwide and conduct military campaigns around the globe. How do you think the US can deploy troops to the middle east and maitain their supply lines without bases in Europe?
Don't get me wrong, I do realize that there are many benefits for the other countries as well (yes, and also protection). The point is that the US would shoot themselves in the foot to abandon their bases.