I wasn’t around in 1949, but I learned about it. It was formed to stop communism from advancing from the USSR. That’s hardly a concern now. Communism is a concern - but from within, sadly.
Looks like in 2010 we paid $712M.
Appreciate the digging.
The USSR may be defunct or more likely sneaking around under another name. The effects are the same.
Part of NATO grew from WW2 and our not wanting to see Germany, or Japan, re-arm as Germany did after WW1. I see that as a good return for the money.
If $712M in 2010 is correct, that might be trimable at least some.
Like it or not if we wish to keep most wars down, we are the only country capable of being big enough to keep that peace. Europe has a bad habit of spending peaceful times with their heads in the sand until there is another Hitler burning Europe down. Peace and Freedom are never free.