The article highlights the deep economic and cultural ties between locals in Ramstein, Germany, and the American military presence. Local businesses depend heavily on the patronage of the approximately 50,000 American military personnel and their families, with many locals expressing gratitude for the post-WWII support from the US. However, there is a growing concern over the uncertain future of this relationship, particularly as US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth hints at a potential reduction of troops in Europe, which could severely impact the local economy.
"They are the economy here," said Andreas Hausmann, owner of the Hotel America, where he estimates that two-thirds of guests are from the United States.
"If they pull the plug here, we will be socially destroyed."
"I met my ex-husband on the street here in Ramstein," said social worker Svenja Miller, 42. Miller, who has two children with a US citizen currently stationed in the US.
"They're also important customers here, for everything from real estate to nail services."
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