First, the POTUS announcement of 9500 troops returning from Germany by September.— Mark Hertling (@MarkHertling) June 7, 2020
A caveat: I served in Europe for 12 years, was involved in the last 2 reductions, & know a bit of how this works.
It'll ll be harder & take longer than POTUS thinks. 2/13
Additionally, the bases (kasernes) in Germany abide by laws, status of forces agreements, and there are host-nation workers integrated into US systems and processes.— Mark Hertling (@MarkHertling) June 7, 2020
In effect: these are "assignments" and "communities," not "deployments" and operating bases. 4/13
Additionally, all current missions would be affected— Mark Hertling (@MarkHertling) June 7, 2020
Truth is, we gain more strategic advantage having forces in Europe than we pay for, so support to allies, training of forces, engagement with & protection of other countries (like Israel!) would be affected. 6/13
A story: From 2004-2011 -while US forces in Europe contributed to Iraq & Afghanistan- forces were reduced from 90,000 to 30,000. The force was "sized" with a view toward lowering numbers while still accomplishing post-cold war missions.— Mark Hertling (@MarkHertling) June 7, 2020
These forces are now bare-boned. 8/13
Now, item 2. SecDef Esper & CJCS Milley allegedly said they will not testify before Congress, as asked. That's not good.— Mark Hertling (@MarkHertling) June 7, 2020
After a 3 or 4-star general is nominated by POTUS for promotion/position, he/she is confirmed by Congress.
That's an interesting process. 10/13
While political appointees may attempt to flaunt this procedure in appearing for testimony, I would think all military leaders -especially the CJCS- would uphold both the oath, their knowledge of the Constitution, and their integrity & duty when asked to appear. 12/13— Mark Hertling (@MarkHertling) June 7, 2020
These two issues - pulling troops from Europe and testifying before Congress - are two more things I'll be watching this week. You should watch them, too. 13/13— Mark Hertling (@MarkHertling) June 7, 2020