Pentagon to close 21 facilities in Europe

[DonViejo]

By Kristina Wong - 05/23/14 05:19 PM EDT

The Pentagon announced Friday it was closing down 21 military facilities in Europe, a move the Department said would save $60 million annually.

The closures were part of a previously-announced effort, but the decision was somewhat unexpected in light of U.S. attempts to reassure European allies in the wake of Russia's annexation of Crimea.

The closures are comprised mostly of recreational and housing facilities at U.S. and NATO military bases across Europe, such as a skeet shooting range, a hotel and a golf course. But some munitions storage facilities will also be shuttered.

"This is about making sure we have the right footprint, the right posture, and frankly that we're spending taxpayer dollars the right way in Europe," Pentagon Press Secretary Navy Rear Adm. John Kirby said at a press briefing Friday.



Read more: http://thehill.com/policy/defense/207142-pentagon-to-close-21-facilities-in-europe#ixzz32kzKsgSS

[Jake Stern]

1. Here's a neat idea: close 'em all and dissolve NATO.

NATO was formed to counter the commies during the Cold War. The Cold War is over so why the need for it?

For 60+ years we've been stationing troops in Europe. It's time to let these rich, developed nations put on their big boy pants and defend themselves.