Current requirements to decrease the Department of Defense Base Budget and national desires for an increase in the European community's participation in international security have led to numerous calls for a withdrawal of United States Army forces in Europe and the reinvestment of both money and personnel in the Continental United States. Leaving Europe all together may force Europeans to readdress current military obligations, but such disengagement is not in the best interests of the United States or its allies. Areas such as training, readiness, force projection, and international partnership are vital to the U.S. Army's presence in Europe and critical to national and international security. More importantly, continued presence of American troops in Europe signals a continued commitment to Europe and illustrates U.S. leadership in the world. A more efficient array of the composition and disposition of U.S. Army forces in Europe can accommodate budget reductions while maintaining an appropriate connection with our allies in Europe. This future European footprint is vital to U.S. national security, can provide incentive for increased European defense contributions, and is worth the U.S. investment in treasure and manpower.

"21 March 2012"--P. [ii].

Good intentions, failed presence: between the World Wars -- The Cold War and a change in American stature -- Europe after the Cold War -- Changes in American ground troop presence over time -- Arguments for the removal of American forces -- Money: low costs and significant benefits -- A world without leadership -- Vulnerability versus capability -- Isolating or insulating -- The way ahead: recommendations for greater efficiencies -- Multinational brigades and basing in Europe and the United States -- Exercise rotations and technological exploitation -- Conclusion.