They all hated Reagan.
Not my German neighbors. In the weeks preceding the 1980 election, they originally pleaded with me to vote for Carter, because they were sure Reagan would start WWIII.
2-3 times a week, I dined at the neighborhood family restaurant, advocating for Reagan and what he stood for. My main theme was that the world is a safer place when America is strong, and Reagan was the man to do the job. I always spoke German during those discussions.
Checkmate arrived on Inauguration Day, when the Iranian hostages were released, and made their first landing at Ramstein Air Base, about an hour's drive from where I lived.
I was rewarded with a seat at the stammtische, a table designated for family and close friends of the family. It's an honor I cherish to this day. Talk to any American who has spent time in Germany, you'll find that very few Americans are accorded such an honor.
Nothing but fond memories of living in Germany, I will always consider it my second home.
BTW, my "truism" still holds true, i.e. the world is a safer place when America is strong. How safe are we feeling today?