However, I do have issues with kids from Dorset or Michigan, Brisbane or Alberta dying in the defence of Europe
Err isn't that sort of the point of NATO (Oz aside) - Article 5 and all that? Are you suggesting that NATO should be disbanded?
Some halfway house where you squander billions on homemade hardware selected for the country of manufacture
'cos that never ever happens in the UK, US etc etc
and then run to the US, UK and Commonwealth when it turns to sh1t.
When exactly did it last "turn to sh*t"? I think you've spent a little too long bingeing on Guy Martin's TV progs or listening to Farage's speeches.
I guess you kept your opinions to yourself while you were serving...