As others had before them, BRAC commissioners criticized the timing of the 2005 base closure and realignment process, saying, in a chapter titled “Issues for Further Consideration,” which begins on p. 305 of their final report, that they had conducted their work “during a national strategic debate with an uncertain outcome.” They are referring, of course, to the ongoing Quadrennial Defense Review—now not due to be completed till after the New Year. Essentially, say the commissioners, their analysis rested on the 2001 QDR—a lot has changed since then. (Need bedtime reading? Here’s the final report.)
Air Force Gen. Alexus G. Grynkewich assumed command of U.S. European Command on July 1, taking over the key assignment as the U.S. and its allies contend with a resurgent Russia and a grinding war in Ukraine.
