Cut bloated defense budget

Why is President Donald Trump asking for more defense money? Is he planning to start a war? I cannot comprehend another reason. No other country wastes their resources and taxpayers’ money on military spending like America does. Our $600 billion-plus military obviously doesn’t protect us from terrorist attacks. In fact, our military has been the specific target of terrorists. Remember the barracks in Beirut and the USS Cole.

The Armed Forces Network says it broadcasts sporting events to U.S. troops in 175 countries. I’m aware of only two wars so why are we in the other 173 nations? Do other countries spread troops worldwide? I’ve never seen a Cuban base or soldier here.

My world map denotes 196 nations, which means we have forces covering 90 percent of the world. AFN claims our troops are protecting U.S. business interests abroad. Are we taxpayers reimbursed for that protection’s cost?

Every other category of the budget supports a useful service whereas many military costs are wasteful.

I suggest we cut the military budget in half and use the $300 billion for education, health and infrastructure.

This story was originally published June 16, 2017 at 6:03 PM with the headline "Cut bloated defense budget."