On Wednesday, October 12, 2011, LTG(R) Gary Speer, Former Deputy Commanding General of the United States Army Europe, visited The Institute of World Politics for a speaking engagement regarding US military engagement in Europe, specifically US-NATO relations.
While noting the shortcomings of this relationship, LTG(R) Speer highlighted how both sides have benefitted, particularly the US. He explained that after the fall of the Berlin Wall, NATO seemed to leap into the unknown. Despite this leap, however, US-NATO relations have proved to be of great benefit for the last twenty years, especially in situations such as Rwanda, Yugoslavia, and Afghanistan. He opined that the alliance ought to persist, and, while beneficial, will only continue so long as the US desires it to do continue.
This lecture was part of IWP’s Distinguished Military Speakers Series.