Obviously the US military has absolutely crushed their enemies as far as not having their hands tied by politics has allowed. And that is important, whether for

Obviously the US military has absolutely crushed their enemies as far as not having their hands tied by politics has allowed. And that is important, whether for better or for worse. In at least 70% of the major conflicts since then, US has absolutely failed in almost every respect in terms of reforming the countries they go to war with, and in bringing about any objective benefits for others or for themselves. But, until now the deterrent effect of the US military just existing has undoubtedly saved many countries from being overrun by a neighboring thug with despotic tendencies. It is trivial to think of several plausible scenarios for the last 80 years that are far darker than what actually transpired. So that deterrent effect is by far the most important one, and an excellent reason for the US military to remain strong as we move into the future.