There is also the defense of the strategic lanes of transportation. A lot of cargo still rounds the horn and having a force in place to defend shipping is in the interest of the western world.
The US wants the rest of the western powers to pull their share and not rely on us to be the cops of the world. Or, we did under Trump, not so much under the communists now in control.
Vietnam was fought to keep the commies from having too much control of the shipping lanes in the South China Sea.
Panama and the Suez are easily choked (and will be in the next world war).
*When does Canada take Pierre and Miquelon back from the French?*
It will happen when we return Hawaii to territorial status and give government control to the Hawaiians. 49 stars on the flag-an easy configuration-especially with 2 fewer senators.
Never heard of those places but keep thinking. It’s contagious.