1st MarDiv is now larger than the British Army and Royal Marines combined.

Wow.  The 1st MarDiv is now larger than the British Army and Royal Marines combined.  The 1st Marine Air Wing is larger than the British Air Force and Naval Air Arm combined.

Quite honestly the US Marine Corps by itself is larger than several European countries Army and Air Force's combined.

In light of the economic crisis its somewhat understandable...somewhat.  But the question must be asked.  What unique capabilities do our allies bring to the fight that we don't have organically?

Are partnership missions even valid?  Is the work done to have other forces attend Red Flag or to go out to 29 Palms or the NTC worth it when if combat came the US would make up the bulk of the forces?

With the reduction in forces that the Brits are carrying out could they maintain tempo of operations if another war broke out?  With so many forces now in the TA could they arrive with enough men to make a difference?

I don't know but this will bite and it will change perceptions and relations.