Force Realignment: No Cart Before the Horse

In its final report to the President dated August 15, the Overseas Basing Commission has registered concern whether stateside facilities will be adequate to handle the planned massive realignment of American troops from overseas bases. The commission states: “Most importantly, the commission recommends that quality of life considerations be a priority in the global realignment process.” The commission recommended a last day-first day approach to the movements, explaining that support systems, schools, medical facilities and other needs must be provided for until the last day at the old base, with equal quality of life in place the first day newcomers arrive. The commission also stated concern about lack of budgeting for the move, saying that “in far too many instances we are putting the cart before the horse.”