Another voice against empire

Veteran journalist Charley Reese has reminded us that the Pentagon now has 702 overseas bases in 130 countries, on which are stationed more than 250,000 uniformed troops. The question is, why do we need all those bases? How do they contribute to our national defense? The only powers that can really wage war against us are Russia and China – and against them, land-based forces in distant parts of the world will be useless, because they will fight with missiles.

The only reason for such an extended military is to maintain an empire. Or as Mr. Reese writes,

“Americans need to realize that we are not the police force of the world. It is not our responsibility to overthrow dictators or effect regime change in other people's countries. It is not our responsibility to stop slaughters such as seem to be a permanent feature of Africa.”

He concludes: “You can't have a free republic and an empire. It is time to choose.” A free republic needs a strong defense. It also needs to mind its own business.