[The Defense Base Closure and Realignment Commission] is talking mergers when it should be looking at all of the military bases overseas ("Military experiencing joint pain," article, Feb. 16). Think of the money these bases are costing.

Close all the overseas bases. Bring our military folks home and build some bases along our southern border. It would help the economy.

Merging is a stupid idea. It lowers our capability to defend ourselves and hurts the towns facing a loss in revenue. We, the people, are sick and tired giving our money to other countries when we have homeless and problems here in the USA.

Petty Officer 1st Class Steve Gerfen (retired)Atmore, Ala.